The Wait Is Over

Three Is A Magic Number

Sam and Abby were at their OB-GYN's office for their first attempt at artificial insemination. They've chosen to use the frozen sperm of a close friend of Sam's who died after a battle with brain cancer. Abby was called back and she and Sam were led to an examination room to wait for their doctor.

Dr. Fleet: Abby, are you ready for this?

Abby: Ready as I'll ever be, Doc.

Dr. Fleet: Hi, Sam. I'm sure you're excited to get this process started.

Sam: I can't believe that we're doing this, really. I've wanted kids, but I didn't think we'd be trying to have one while we were still playing.

Dr. Fleet: I know that you both would like to play in Australia next June, so we have done everything we can to best assure success on this first attempt. If we're able to impregnate you today, your due date would be somewhere in late April. We could induce a week or two early to give you the best opportunity to get back in playing shape by the time of the knockout rounds. We'll also prescribe an exercise regimen to keep your fitness up during the pregnancy.

Abby: Thank you. Now I know why Yael comes to you.

Dr. Fleet: She told you that I was a former soccer player and went to school with one of your coach's colleagues in Milwaukee, right?

Sam: I don't remember her mentioning that. Wait...it wouldn't be Deacon Marc, the coaching and relationship guru, would it?

Dr. Fleet: Yes, it would be. Before we start the procedure, I would like to say that I think it's sweet that you've chosen to go with a known donor and that your friend's family will have a connection to your baby. Abby, lie back and relax.

Abby slid back onto the table and placed her feet in the stirrups. Dr. Fleet took the catheter and inserted it into her uterus, then injected it with the sperm using a syringe. Once 20 minutes had passed with Abby in that position, she was allowed to sit up and dress.

Dr. Fleet: We will schedule another appointment for four weeks from now. At that time, we'll test for conception and if it comes up negative, we will do a second procedure. If it comes up positive, we'll forego the second procedure and schedule you to come in four weeks later and test again. It is my hope that we will have a viable fetus at that time and you'll be on the road to having a baby.

Sam: Are there any restrictions for us?

Dr. Fleet: Not really. Abby, don't overexert yourself today or tomorrow. Since there was no bleeding during the procedure, you should be able to resume relations with penetration right away. Stay on your diet. Call us if you develop cramping so we can get you a prescription for pain medication that will be safe for you to take.

Abby: Thanks, Sara.

Dr. Fleet: Be well, Abby. Hopefully, we'll have good news when you return on the 29th.

Abby and Sam left the clinic and headed home to enjoy an lazy afternoon with one another after taking the first step in becoming mothers.