Stephanie’s Story

After 2.5 years of TTC & 5 rounds of letrozole, I was finally able to surprise my husband with the news that we were FINALLY expecting. Everything was great, I had a few early ultrasounds and at every appointment, I was sent on my way, with little information other than "everything looks great!". 

At my 16 week appt, I mentioned some weird pains and a lot of pressure in my back. I was told this was normal. The week leading up to our loss, I had intense back pain, increased discharge & terrible migraines. I was brushed off and told to drink some caffeine & take Tylenol for the pain. 3 days later I woke up to what felt like a bulging bag when I went to the bathroom. I rushed to my OB's office, where they did a pelvic exam and was told that I was 5-6 cm dilated & membranes have moved into the birth canal. I was wheeled up to L&D, where I was given my IC diagnosis.  

After waiting for my husband to get to the hospital, they offered to try an emergency rescue cerclage. Of course, we were going to try anything to save our child! Unfortunately, after over an hour in the Trendelenburg position, my water broke during the placement and now we had no choice but to deliver our son. 

Brooks Robert was born on January, 15th, 2021 at just 18 weeks & 4 days gestation. We were heartbroken.  Months later & many consultations with local OB's, advice from MFM's as well as a consultation with one of the best TAC surgeons in the country. I had my transabdominal cerclage placed by the one & only, Dr. Sumners in July of 2021. 

While I have not been able to put my TAC to use just yet as I have a slew of infertility diagnoses & currently going through IVF, I hope one day to beat IC and physically bring a baby home to love & care for.