Back in November, during my post-op appointment with Dr. L, he suggested I do a Clomid Challenge Test. Remember during that appointment he also informed me that having endometriosis declines a woman's egg quality sooner. This test checks the hormone FSH (follicle stimulating hormone). A woman trying to conceive wants an FSH level of <10. Levels over 10 mean you have poor egg quality.

Back in March 2008, during my initial blood work, my FSH level was 4.5.

He said this test is not absolutely necessary for us to determine our next step in treatment post-surgery, but considering I like to be as informed as I can about what is going on with my fertility, he said I'd probably want to do the test. And he was right!

So I will do the Clomid Challenge Test this cycle for two simple reasons. 1) to find out my FSH levels and 2) Dr. L said he has seen women conceive from a Clomid Challenge Test since you take 100mg of Clomid for five days. The test will cost me 15 bucks out of pocket. If we conceive on this cycle and avoid another expensive IUI cycle or two ... glory be to God!!! :)

So here's the Clomid Challenge Test schedule for the next month:

Cycle Day 1: December 20

Cycle Day 3: December 22, Blood draw #1 (checking FSH level)

Cycle Day 5-9: December 24-28, take 100mg Clomid per day

Cycle Day 10: December 29, Blood draw #2 (checking FSH level)

Cycle Day 12: December 31, Ultrasound

Cycle Day 21: January 9, Blood draw #3 (checking progesterone level - to see if I ovulated the follicle(s) I had)

January 15, 2009 - Appointment with Dr. L to discuss results of Clomid Challenge Test and our next step.

Please pray with us as we are in another time of praying and then listening for God to lead us to our next step.

- Elaine