[Infertility Treatment Report 4] Skipping IUI to IVF. The 'mysterious connection' that solidified my resolve and a report on my first visit to Umeda Clinic
Hello, this is Tekari🌷
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It has been about a month since male infertility (idiopathic spermatogenic dysfunction) was diagnosed.
We have been doing everything we can as a couple, such as trying supplements and improving our diet.
In this post, I will share the background behind our decision to 'skip IUI and move on to IVF (advanced reproductive medicine),' as well as a report on our clinic transfer and first visit, which we were drawn to at a fateful moment!
1. One month of effort and unexpected re-test results
In early March 2025, we went for another semen analysis to check the results of my husband's one month of hard work.
Over the past month, we have been working on the following improvements at home:
Taking supplements purchased at the clinic
One bowl of shredded cabbage with flaxseed oil dressing
A balanced diet centered on fish
Although we kept it within a reasonable range while both working, we were hoping that 'even a slight increase in the numbers would be good,' but the result was—.
Surprisingly, the numbers were lower than last time.
Sperm concentration 3.8×10⁶/ml
Motility 32%
Progressive motility 10%
Although the doctor told us, 'There is variation if you don't look at it over three months, and I don't think these are bad numbers,' we were faced with the harsh reality that 'in the current state, doing IUI would be a gamble.'
2. Eight consecutive days of struggling with the syringe method and a tearful reset
Thinking, 'If that's the case, let's do everything we can!', we decided to thoroughly target the timing this cycle.
Considering the state of the sperm (oligozoospermia/asthenozoospermia), we decided to carry out a strategy of delivering fresh sperm every day, believing the theory that 'releasing every day lowers the rate of malformation and increases motility!'
While feeling anxious about the ovulation test results, we struggled for 8 consecutive days using the syringe method.
Along the way, even though my husband was exhausted, saying, 'I have no more material left... I'm going to die...', he really did his best.
However, my expectations were dashed when my period arrived.
I had reached my limit with the nervousness of every cycle and the sense of despair when my period started.
For the first time, I cried out loud in front of my husband, and that was when my mind was made up.
I won't be indecisive anymore. I'm going to stop obsessing over timed intercourse and move on to IVF!
3. The 'work timing' and 'miracle reservation' that pushed me forward
Actually, there was a 'mysterious connection' regarding my work that helped me decide to step up to IVF.
I found out that a new manager would be joining my workplace starting in April.
I thought, 'This is the only time I can talk to my boss about cutting back on work to undergo IVF!' I felt that if I missed this opportunity, I would just keep dragging my work responsibilities along.
With my resolve in my heart, I opened the website of the famous clinic in Umeda, Osaka (Nishitan ART Clinic Umekita) that I wanted to go to most... only to see the words 'New patient intake status: Undecided'.
I couldn't sleep from the shock and spent the whole night searching for reviews of other clinics.
The next day, miraculously,new patient intake resumed! I felt drawn to it and completed my reservation immediately. It was a moment where I felt a connection, as if I were being told, 'Go now'.
4. Report on my first visit to Nishitan ART Clinic Umekita (A brilliant strategy for what to bring!)
On Monday, April 7, 2025, we took advantage of the fact that my husband and I both had the day off and went to the clinic for our first visit!
Sincethe partner's handwritten signatureis required on the consent form for advanced fertility treatment, it is most efficient for both husband and wife to go from the first visit.
💡 A 'what to bring' strategy that was helpful when transferring clinics
When transferring clinics, relying only on a referral letter is dangerous! A referral letter doesn't necessarily cover all test data, and if there are gaps, it can lead to unnecessary re-testing and extra costs...
I brought all of the following with me.
All past test results for myself and my husband from the gynecologist(As expected, there were items not included in the referral letter, so this was a great decision!)
Test results from a men's health clinic(I brought these to save the 5,000 yen referral letter fee! The gynecological test results were sufficient.)
A certificate of residence (Juminhyo) listing the relationship and head of household (full details)(This was mandatory as proof of marital status.)
🏥 Flow of the first visit day
Counseling and fee explanation (Explanation of the high-cost medical expense benefit system and schedule)
Explanation from the nurse (Receiving pamphlets for self-injection, etc.)
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Consultation and ultrasound by the doctor
It was a female doctor! My endometrium was 9mm, and my follicles were growing well. I felt relieved when she praised me, saying, 'You have many egg reserves, so we should be able to retrieve quite a few.'
I heard that the egg retrieval would be done under 'intravenous anesthesia + local anesthesia,' and since I was worried about the pain, I felt a huge sense of relief.
Blood draw for both husband and wife and we were done!
I thought I would have to go through IUI, but the policy to move smoothly to IVF was decided, and we will finally make a full-scale start from the next visit (day 3 of my period).
Looking forward to the next step!
'I'm no longer afraid of a reset. I'll just keep looking forward and moving ahead!'
Clutching the money for the payment, I left the clinic feeling bright and clear-headed.
Even the month that seemed like a detour was the first step toward IVF, drawn together by all the timing falling into place.
Next time, in [Part 5], I will write in detail about the self-injection and egg retrieval cycle that has finally begun, and my decision to 'transfer internally (from visiting nursing to day service)' because I didn't want to have any regrets!
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📖 [Summary of all 6 episodes] Click here for the infertility treatment report magazine