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Balancing Career & Family
Dr. Ching Hui Chen
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Facing Painful Periods: A Journey from Endometriosis to Motherhood
For many, menstrual pain goes beyond just endometriosis; it can signal fertility challenges as well. Even when undergoing IVF treatments, it’s essential to follow medical advice for physical and emotional well-being. After a two-year journey to conceive, one working mother welcomed her beloved daughter on Mother’s Day.
Understanding the Connection Between Menstrual Pain and Fertility
"Dr. Chen, the baby has safely arrived!"
Long plagued by severe menstrual pain, teacher Xiao Qian discovered the indirect impact on her fertility only during her reproductive medicine consultation. A compassionate educator dedicated to helping children with learning difficulties, she found it frustratingly difficult to conceive naturally and ultimately opted for IVF.
After her first heartbeat was detected at eight weeks, it sadly stopped. With her husband’s encouragement and support, she regrouped, focused on her health, and persevered. After two challenging years, her daughter arrived just in time for her first Mother’s Day.
Xiao Qian never imagined she could be so resilient, enduring countless needle pricks without complaint. Despite the side effects of medication, nausea, and weight gain, she remained determined, experiencing the highs and lows of her journey until she finally welcomed a new life.
During her postpartum recovery, she reflected on her experiences and hoped to share insights with others facing similar challenges.
Navigating IVF as a Working Woman
Q: How did you manage being a teacher while undergoing IVF treatments?
As a teacher, taking time off isn’t simple; classes need to be arranged ahead of time. IVF requires precise timing for egg retrieval and embryo transfer, making it challenging to schedule during the school year. Therefore, I opted for summer and winter breaks for my treatments, minimizing disruption to my teaching duties. I also attended evening or weekend appointments.
To cope with the time pressure, I reminded myself to be patient and to use my downtime for relaxation—traveling, exercising, and adjusting my diet to improve my overall well-being and enhance the chances of successful implantation.
I worked with students with special needs, including those with physical disabilities. After embryo transfer, I needed to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous movements, so I communicated with my colleagues to ensure they could assist when needed. I’m grateful to my colleagues for their understanding and support during this journey.
Endometriosis and Infertility
Q: What would you tell others with endometriosis who face fertility challenges?
I was aware of my endometriosis before marriage and knew it could affect my fertility, so I kept monitoring it. After my cyst grew too large, I underwent laparoscopic surgery. Initially, my menstrual pain improved, but after about six months, it returned. I took painkillers, avoided trigger foods, and incorporated traditional Chinese medicine, which helped alleviate the pain somewhat.
After resting for six months post-surgery, I actively tried to conceive, assuming that I would become pregnant naturally. However, despite using ovulation medication over several cycles, I faced disappointment each time my period arrived, as it felt like another failed attempt at motherhood.
Understanding that endometriosis could recur and hinder conception, I created a new fertility plan each month, including changes in medication and supplements, as well as exploring artificial insemination. After eight months of trying, my doctor informed me that my endometriosis had returned, leaving IVF as the only option. This led to discussions with my husband about beginning the IVF process. Following my doctor’s guidance step by step brought me a sense of stability, easing the emotional toll of each menstrual cycle.
A Grateful Heart for Supportive Partners
Q: What would you like to say to your husband for his support?
“Thank you for your unwavering care, allowing me to truly be a 'lazy wife' during this journey. I know you felt nervous and reluctant when giving me injections, but you bravely went ahead despite shaking hands. You faced challenges with me, staying calm on the surface while researching and seeking advice in private.
I gained ten kilograms during this process, yet you never complained. Instead, you encouraged me to exercise and manage my diet. Now that our baby girl is here, we may face future challenges, but as long as we’re together, we’ll be alright. ❤️
Navigating Pregnancy Discomforts
Q: How did you cope with discomfort during pregnancy?
I’m one of those rare cases who experienced severe morning sickness throughout my pregnancy, finding it more challenging than the discomfort of IVF treatments. I learned to eat smaller, more frequent meals to manage severe acid reflux.
During my second trimester, I was diagnosed with placenta previa, which limited my activities. Coupled with pandemic restrictions, I felt constrained and often bored at home. To lift my spirits, I let in sunlight, watered my plants on the balcony, and ordered food through delivery apps to treat myself. I hope everyone finds their way to feel better during tough times.