Just when we were ready to start IVF, a stubborn ovarian cyst decided to crash the party.

Instead of jumping into injections, we spent three months stuck in fertility limbo—waiting, hoping, and trying to evict an uninvited guest from Lauren’s ovary.

Oh, and it cost $3,000. Because of course it did.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the unexpected delays, surprise diagnoses, and the financial gut-punch that came with it all.

From questioning every treatment option to navigating the fresh vs. frozen embryo transfer debate (spoiler: we werevery confused), this is the reality of trying to conceive when your body refuses to cooperate.

What to Expect:

The Squatter in Lauren’s Ovary: How a tiny cyst delayed IVF by three months.

The $3,000 Reality Check: When insurance won’t cover the procedure you suddenly need.

Fresh vs. Frozen Debate: The research spiral that broke Lauren’s brain.

The Surprise Diagnosis: What we learned about endometriosis (while still groggy from surgery).

Injecting in the Desert: Prepping for IVF during a girls’ trip to Joshua Tree.

Let’s Connect:

Hang out with us onTikTok andYouTube @HopefullyKidding

Connect with Alex onInstagram @HooperHairPuff

Got a story to share? Email us athopefullykidding@gmail.com

If this episode made you laugh, cringe, or feel a little less alone in your fertility journey, please rate and reviewHopefully Kidding on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us share these real, raw, and ridiculous stories with others navigating infertility, IVF, and the unexpected detours along the way. 💛