Feeling Lost at 20

I am unsure about everyone’s individual situations, but personally, I will be considering trying for another child soon. This decision follows a traumatic car accident I experienced while pregnant in September 2021, which required me to prioritize healing my body before considering natural conception. Unfortunately, due to the removal of my fallopian tubes in May 2022 for health reasons, my only option to expand my family is through IVF. This was a difficult decision, but necessary for my well-being and for the sake of being there for my children. Despite already having two children, my age of 24 and the circumstances dictate this choice. Hopefully, sharing my story sheds light on my decision-making process.

I am 27 years old and began trying for a baby when I was 25/26. People kept telling me I was still young and had plenty of time, but I still feel the urge to have a baby now. My husband has the CF gene, so we cannot conceive naturally and are relying on IVF. Unfortunately, we have experienced two failed IVF cycles and just received news that our last embryo did not succeed, leaving us feeling raw. Despite the challenges, I am grateful that we started this journey early as it gives us more time to keep trying. I don’t have any friends or acquaintances my age who have gone through IVF, so it can feel lonely. Reading this thread makes me feel less isolated.

I can relate to this feeling so strongly! At 27, I just discovered that I may have been experiencing menopause since I was 15. The thought of having to deal with this at such a young age is frustrating, but I have no choice but to accept it. I will make the best of this situation and hope for a positive outcome.

“I wish I had explored IVF earlier in my late 30s as someone classified as ‘advanced maternal age.’ I highly recommend looking into it, as you likely won’t regret it.”

I experienced 2 miscarriages at 26 and 28 and now wish I had started earlier. There’s no need to feel strange about it! We all have our own unique journeys.

I began at 22 and after 15 years, despite some achievements, the nightmare persists. The sooner you start, the more time you have to speak up for yourself.

I am currently 25 years old and happy that I began this process early, despite the challenges. My doctors initially assumed it would be easy for me due to my age, but it has proven to be difficult. My journey began when my husband was diagnosed with testicular cancer, and during one of my first appointments, a uterine septum was discovered requiring surgery. We have completed one egg retrieval so far with no euploids, but two are being retested. I find solace in the fact that I am using my eggs at their highest quality. It is difficult when my peers do not fully understand what I am going through.

I have been attempting to conceive for 3 years, and I recently began IVF at 23. You are not too young to start the process.

I discovered at 26 that I would probably require IVF, but my ex-husband refused to undergo sperm testing, preventing us from proceeding with IVF. We separated at 28. Many individuals desire to have children in their 20s, and if you are aware of your need for IVF, it is not too early to consider it. Best wishes!

My husband is 25 and I am 23, and we are exploring IVF due to his genetic condition with a 50% chance of being passed down. It can be overwhelming at times, but we are hopeful for this journey. While some may feel that we are too young to undergo this process, I believe age is just a number. Sending you positive vibes and baby dust. :white_heart:

It’s not just you going through this, as many others have shared similar struggles. My partner and I tried to conceive for 3 years before seeking help from fertility specialists, despite being in our mid-20s. We both assumed the issue was with me due to my irregular periods, but it turned out to be a joint problem. It took us 2 years to decide on starting IVF, during which we obtained private insurance and consulted multiple specialists before finding the right team and treatment plan. Many friends and family members dismissed our concerns with comments like “you’re young, just keep trying” or “stop stressing,” which only added to our frustration. It’s important to talk openly about your journey and seek out supportive individuals to share with.

I know how you feel! I started my fertility journey at 29 and used public healthcare for assistance. Some of the nurses’ judgmental looks made me feel guilty for utilizing public resources at a young age, but I convinced myself I had valid reasons due to my low AMH, previous surgery, and infertility struggles. I didn’t owe anyone an explanation for wanting to have a child and reclaim control over my fertility.