IVF: a shortcut solution to advanced maternal age 

We were already 38 years old when we got married. We put parenthood aside for two years, trying to spend some quality time with just the two of us. Time went by and by the time we had tried to conceive, good news was nowhere to be found. We tried to conceive naturally at first. However, time and tide wait for no men. As we got closer to advanced maternal age, we realized the chances of having a healthy baby were gradually reduced. After taking all aspects into consideration, including age, physical conditions and birth risks,etc., we decided to try IVF.

Why did we choose Stork Fertility Center?

We did our research on the Internet before jumping into IVF. We also asked some relatives and friends, and inquired about more info from famous doctors at other hospitals. We eventually decided on the Stork Fertility Center at Hsinchu recommended by my gynecologist.

My gynecologist suggested that we should find a hospital nearby, for the IVF treatment requires frequent trips to the hospital, which takes time and energy. She further recommended the doctor, so we came here. I had a great first impression here at Stork for its overall soothing and clean environment. The staff answered professionally and detailedly to our questions and doubts about the treatment and the cost. Moreover, the doctor was really attentive and patient with all of our questions. It all made us feel at ease throughout the process.

Reluctantly ending pregnancy early due to ectopic pregnancy 

We did two rounds of treatment overall. There were lots of injections and medication. We heard  it was going to be hard, and it really was! But the thought of having our own baby kept the pain and suffering away. I successfully conceived after the first embryo implantation surgery. Being pregnant for the first time in my life, my husband and I found it hard to adjust to this huge change in our lives physically and mentally. By the 8th week of pregnancy, the gestational sac was absent. I was diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy. It was extremely shocking and we felt devastated. We reluctantly ended this short pregnancy for the sake of my health and future possibilities to conceive after discussing with our doctor. During the process, the doctor patiently  talked us through steps, every possible situation, risks and how she’ll handle it in case something happened. It really set our mind at rest.  

Hitting reset and going for the second time 

After what we went through the first time, it took a long time to find our peace of mind. We feared for another failure, and we would hit rock bottom and never bounce back. After a year of adjusting, we decided to give it another shot. We went for checkups at Taipei Medical University Hospital introduced by our relatives. However, we couldn’t stand the crowded environment and long distance, plus I preferred female doctors, so we decided to go back to Stork. It doesn’t feel like you’re in a hospital when you’re at Stork for its beautiful environment. The prices are a bit higher frankly speaking, but the dignity and sense of safety you receive make it worth the price. We were one-year older and even more worried about how age would affect the fetal development. We shared our doubts and concerns with the doctor. She assured us that the frozen embryo was preserved in its original state. We felt relieved and ready to go.

I gave myself countless pep talks during the second process. I considered it vital to stay positive and joyful throughout. Thanks to the doctor, it was a success the second time. Despite the one-year gap between the two pregnancies, the warmth and kindness we received from the doctor and the staff stayed the same. We really felt like we were friends and families. I remembered that we arranged a trip to Japan during the 4th month of pregnancy. We were so worried about emergencies. We feared history would repeat itself. So we did a lot of research online and asked for the doctor’s suggestions. She reassured us, taught us how to handle any emergencies, and prepared us with enough medication and injections, helping me, an anxious mother-to-be, to have a nice trip abroad to relax mentally and physically. 

With the doctor’s and the staff’s help, we reached the 20th week of pregnancy safe and sound. 

We were suggested to go to a larger hospital in preparation of the subsequent pregnancy inspection and delivery. At last, in mid-September with great joy, we gave birth to our beloved daughter. Now whenever I hold my daughter in my arms to breastfeed, seeing her cute little face, my heart is filled with gratitude. My husband and I are very grateful to all those who have helped us at Stork. Because of your help, my husband and I can now have a happy and complete family.