Learn All About Christie Murphy's IUI Pregnancy Journey In This Exclusive Cryobank America Interview

When Christie Murphy and Jamie crossed paths ten years ago, little did they know that their encounter would lead to an extraordinary lifelong journey. During the aftermath of the 2020 pandemic, a mutual friend played matchmaker, sensing the potential for a deep connection between the two. And oh, how right they were!

Reflecting on that magical moment, Christie Murphy reminisces, "As cliché as it may sound, it was truly love at first sight"!

Christie Murphy with her wife, Jamie.

June 15, 2021: christie.murph wrote, "Impossible not to smile witchuuu 🧀"

Magic Beneath The Eiffel Tower: Christie Murphy Says, "I Do"

From that moment on, their lives became intertwined, inseparable in their new romance. In August of 2021, Jamie decided to take their relationship to new heights. In a picturesque outdoor setting adorned with vibrant flowers beneath the iconic Eiffel Tower, Jamie got down on one knee and proposed to Christie. Joy and excitement flooded social media as friends and family shared congratulations and well wishes for their bright future together.

Jamie proposed to Christie in Paris in August 2021

August 23, 2021: christie.murph wrote, "Haven’t yet woken up from this dream. Engaged to the LOVE OF MY LIFE in Paris! 💍"

Christie Murphy and Jamie are officially engaged.

February 14, 2022: christie.murph wrote, "Never in my WILDEST dreams did I think I’d find someone half as perfect as you; my delicious chocolate truffle 💝 #Valentine"

The Big Day

April 2022 marked a new chapter in Christie and Jamie's love story. On a sandy beach surrounded by lush palm trees, they exchanged vows in front of loved ones. Christie and Jamie looked radiant in their stunning white wedding gowns, perfectly complementing the serene backdrop.

Sharing her thoughts on marriage, Christie took to Instagram to express her gratitude:

"I still can't believe I was a BRIDE! Honestly, I never envisioned myself as a bride growing up; NEVER. Most little girls dream about it, plan their fantasy wedding, picture their dream dress, and spend hours and days daydreaming about their 'someday.' Me? NEVER. I'm unsure if it was because I never pictured myself marrying a man, or maybe I couldn't picture myself in the big white dress. Maybe I didn't find myself worthy of being a bride like I didn't feel girly enough." 


"It's unbelievable, though; one day, out of nowhere, once I had grown up (and I mean grown up, into a confident, enlightened, and secure woman), I felt this sudden urge to get married and BE that bride I was once so emotionally detached from. I'm unsure if it's because I met "the one" or because I finally felt comfortable and safe enough to get married. All I know is that once I felt it, I couldn't reverse it. I pictured my dress, my flowers, my hair, my veil, my bride-to-be, her dress, her smile, ALL OF IT."

Christie Murphy

Christie Murphy On Family Planning

When we sat down with Christie and Jamie to discuss their decision to have children, their perspectives on parenthood were intriguingly different. Christie admitted that she never thought she needed to be a mother, but she was open to the idea. She explained, "I never really had that 'pull' to be a mom. I only started craving a baby after falling in love with Jamie." On the other hand, Jamie had always known that she wanted to have kids, a dream she had cherished since childhood.

Six months before the couple married, Christie and Jamie held Modern Fertility's TTC bundle with their fur babies.

October 6, 2021 christie.murph wrote, "Yes, we have our fur-babies, but Jamie & I talk about having REAL babies constantly! We’re getting married in 6 months, so we’ve already started prepping for our fertility journey with @modernfertility 🤰🏼💞🤰🏼"

Christie Murphy and her Wife, Jamie, Begin Their Donor Search

Not wasting any time, Christie and Jamie embarked on a search for the perfect sperm donor. Their quest took them across the country as they meticulously sifted through hundreds of donor profiles. In an exclusive interview, Christie shared their journey with us.

"We had specific criteria in mind, " Christie explained. "We wanted someone tall and European, with light eyes, because Jamie and I have light eyes. Resembling our families was important to us. We hoped for an athletic donor since Jamie played soccer her whole life, and I wanted him to be a brainiac."

September 21, 2022

Christie Murphy shares how she and her wife, Jamie, found their perfect donor.

After browsing through countless profiles, Christie and Jamie stumbled upon a donor who seemed tailor-made for them. A biomedical engineer with a passion for soccer and volleyball, he possessed all the qualities they sought. Cryobank America provided an audio recording, additional photos, and a handwritten letter, which allowed the couple to delve deeper into his life story, fostering an emotional connection that solidified their decision.

Christie and Jamie's IUI Pregnancy Journey Begins!

Christie and Jamie purchased Premium IUI vials, which acquire the highest concentration of motile sperm cells per milliliter. They purchased enough vials to try insemination multiple times while having the option to store extra vials for future siblings. To increase their chances of success, Christie diligently tracked her ovulation cycle using over-the-counter ovulation tests, such as Clear Blue Advanced Digital and Modern Fertility's TTC Bundle from Amazon, which detects a rise in luteinizing hormone (LH) in the urine. She gained a true sense of her peak fertile days by utilizing these resources for a few consecutive cycles.

When asked if she has any fertility tips, Christie enthusiastically shared her belief in the power of sea moss gel.

"I swear I always say sea moss got me pregnant! I took sea moss gel daily for a few weeks before we conceived. I continued to take it throughout the entire process, and I'm convinced it helped"! 

Home Insemination vs. In-Clinic IUI Procedure

Christie and Jamie opted for an intimate experience in their own home using one of Cryobank America's at-home insemination kits for their first insemination attempt. However, after not achieving pregnancy on their second try, they decided it would be best to have their OB-GYN perform intrauterine insemination (IUI) within his clinic to avoid wasting any vials.

Although not mandatory, Christie's OBGYN suggested taking a follicle-stimulating hormone to maximize the chances of timely and successful ovulation. While there was a slightly increased chance of conceiving multiples, Christie trusted her OB-GYN's recommendation and decided to proceed with this fertility-boosting option. She experienced no side effects from the medication but produced three follicles that cycle and ovulated all three eggs.

Reflecting on their IUI experience, Christie emphasized the importance of trust in your fertility specialist or OB-GYN.

"I think a big factor was trusting our doctor and having a good relationship with his entire team. Our doctor even let Jamie assist him in the procedure, and we were so grateful for this!"

Overall, their IUI journey was seamless, thanks to the strong relationship they had built with their medical team.

Christie Murphy's IUI Success: Christie and Jamie Share Their Pregnancy With Family

When asked about their reaction upon seeing a positive pregnancy test, Christie couldn't contain her excitement.

"We were extremely excited and even slightly shocked because we took our test prematurely, at only nine days past ovulation! The pregnancy test looked like a strong BFN (big fat negative) until a few minutes later! We thought our eyes were deceiving themselves because it seemed almost too good to be true! We sobbed tears of joy. Sure enough, those test indicators grew darker each day!"

Christie Murphy shares her wonderful miracle.

September 12, 2023: christie.murph wrote, "I don’t think I’ll ever get over what’s going on inside my body; Miracles ✨"

The couple decided to wait until they heard a heartbeat to share the news with their immediate family. They finally revealed that they were expecting a baby at around six weeks. Little did their loved ones know, they were in for an even bigger surprise. 

Christie and Jamie's Gender Reveal: Plot Twist!

On August 31, 2023, the newlyweds revealed that they wouldn't expect one baby but are expecting two bundles of joy! One by one, Christie and Jamie blasted their gender reveal cannons. Both cannons were pink, indicating Christie was carrying two twin girls!

Christie and Jamie documented their gender reveal party on Instagram, sharing pictures and videos that captured this highly anticipated moment. 

September 2, 2023: christie.murph wrote, "“THE REVEAL” - aka the day we shocked our entire family 🥹"

Donor Conception

In the cryobank community, one topic that often arises is determining the best approach to discussing donor conception with your donor-conceived child. It can be a sensitive subject for some, but Christie and Jamie are open to sharing their thoughts on discussing this with their twin girls someday.

"We don't have a concrete plan for communicating with our girls about donor conception yet," Christie says. "But one thing is for sure - we won't hide anything from them or keep any secrets. We believe in full transparency and honesty."

Christie and Jamie plan on waiting until their girls are old enough to fully understand the concept of donor conception before sharing the specific details and logistics. They want to ensure their daughters have the maturity and understanding to process this information.

"We won't tell them that the stork delivered them to our doorstep," Christie adds. "But we will save the specific details for when they are a bit older and can fully comprehend how they were conceived."

We Asked Christie If There Were Anything She Would Change

When asked if there were anything they would do differently throughout their pregnancy journey, Christie reflected on their decision to try conceiving at home.

"Honestly, we wouldn't do anything differently. We do wish we didn't waste vials through at-home insemination. While it was a memorable experience filled with privacy and intimacy, we now realize we had a greater chance for success with professional assistance."

Ultimately, every couple's pregnancy journey is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It is essential to approach the process with an open mind, realistic expectations, and a willingness to seek professional help.

Christie and Jamie hold ultrasound photos of their twin girls.

August 31, 2023: christie.murph wrote, "Marrying one another was the easiest decision we ever made; choosing to start a family was even EASIER. So much MORE love - COMING 2024 🍼"

Christie Murphy Shares Words Of Encouragement

With unwavering determination, Christie offers words of encouragement to those wishing to conceive through donor insemination. She emphasizes the uniqueness and specialness of each individual's journey towards motherhood.

"If you are someone who is trying to conceive using a sperm donor, just know that your journey to becoming a mom is so unique and so special! What is meant to happen will happen! Having trust in the journey is key! Remember to have patience, try to rely on your support system when needed, and have faith that every step of this journey will be worth it and offer so much more than you could ever imagine!"

Christie Murphy

Cryobank America Gives Special Thanks To Christie and Jamie!

Christie and Jamie's story is a testament to the power of honesty, trust, and community in navigating the path to donor conception. Their openness and willingness to share their experiences provide comfort and guidance for others embarking on this life-changing adventure. As the cryobank community grows, stories like Christie's and Jamie's remind us of the beauty and strength of embracing all unique paths to parenthood. Cryobank America feels privileged to have been part of their conception journey!

• From Genes to Swimmers: How Genetics Impact Sperm Health
• 6 Foods That Can Boost Fertility
• Cryobank America Family: Exclusive Interview With Christie Murphy On Her IUI Pregnancy Journey
• TRT and Male Fertility: Understanding the Impact on Sperm Count and Quality
• From Sperm Count to Ovarian Reserve: Understanding Fertility Testing for Men and Women

Ovulation tracking is a crucial tool for couples and individuals trying to conceive, and understanding when ovulation occurs and timing intercourse or donor insemination accordingly can significantly increase the chances of successful conception.

Although ovulation calculators can be useful, they are not completely reliable. More accurate methods of detecting ovulation, such as ovulation test kits, are available. However, using an ovulation calculator like the one provided can give you a general idea of your fertility window.

Understanding the Basics of Ovulation Tracking

Ovulation takes place during the release of a mature egg from the ovary. Once the egg is released, it then travels down the fallopian tube where it's ready for fertilization by sperm. It is a critical event in the menstrual cycle and plays a vital role in conception. The menstrual cycle is the monthly hormonal change that prepares a woman's body for pregnancy. It typically lasts about 28 days, although it can vary from woman to woman. Ovulation typically takes place around the middle of a woman's menstrual cycle, roughly 14 days before the start of the next period.

Several methods of tracking can help determine when ovulation is likely to occur. These include tracking changes in basal body temperature, monitoring cervical mucus changes, using ovulation predictor kits, and using ovulation calculators. Each method has advantages and disadvantages, and couples may choose to use one or a combination of techniques to track ovulation.

The Importance of Timing in Conception

Timing is crucial for successful conception because an egg is only viable for fertilization for a short period after it is released during ovulation. This period is known as the fertile window and typically lasts about six days, including the day of ovulation and the five days leading up to it. The timeframe for sperm survival in the female reproductive tract is up to 5 days, so having intercourse or performing insemination in the days leading up to ovulation is important to increase the chances of conception.

Several factors can affect timing in conception. As fertility declines, particularly after age 35, age is one important factor. Common fertility disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis, can also affect the timing and make it more difficult to conceive. Couples and individuals must be aware of these factors and consider them when tracking ovulation and trying to conceive.

How Ovulation Calculators Work

Ovulation calculators use data such as the length of a woman's menstrual cycle to predict when ovulation is likely to occur. They work by estimating the ovulation date based on the median span of a woman's menstrual cycle and assuming that ovulation occurs approximately 14 days before the start of the next period. For a more accurate prediction, some ovulation calculators consider other factors, such as basal body temperature and cervical mucus changes.

Different ovulation calculators, including online calculators, smartphone apps, and fertility-tracking devices, are available. Online calculators and smartphone apps are convenient and easy to use, but they rely on users inputting accurate data about their menstrual cycle. Fertility tracking devices, on the other hand, use advanced technology to track various fertility signs and provide more accurate predictions.

Choosing the Right Ovulation Calculator for You

When choosing an ovulation calculator, there are several factors to consider. First, consider your personal preferences and lifestyle. Do you prefer using a smartphone app or a physical device? Do you want a simple calculator or one that offers more advanced features? Consider also the accuracy of the calculator. Look for calculators that have been tested and proven accurate in predicting ovulation.

Different ovulation calculators offer various features. Some may provide additional information and resources about fertility and conception, while others may offer personalized recommendations based on your data. Consider what qualities are important to you and choose a calculator that meets your needs.

To find the best ovulation calculator for your needs, read reviews and testimonials from other users. Doing so can give you an idea of how accurate and reliable the calculator is. You can also consult your healthcare provider or a fertility specialist for recommendations.

Tips for Accurate Ovulation Tracking

Accurate ovulation tracking is essential for successful conception. Here are some tips to help you track ovulation accurately:

1. Use a reliable method: Choose an accurate method, such as an ovulation kit that detects increased luteinizing hormone (LH) in the urine. This type of ovulation kit is our top choice for ovulation tracking, as it provides the most accurate prediction.
2. Track consistently: Track your daily menstrual cycle and fertility signs. Keeping track will help you identify patterns and predict ovulation more accurately.
3. Take note of changes: Pay attention to your basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and other fertility signs. These changes can indicate when ovulation is likely to occur.
4. Be aware of other factors: Consider other factors that can affect ovulation, such as stress, illness, or changes in medication. These factors can all affect the timing of ovulation.
5. Seek professional help if needed: If you have difficulty tracking ovulation or have been trying to conceive for a long time without success, consider seeking professional help from a fertility specialist. They can provide guidance and support to help you achieve your goal of conception.

The Role of Hormones in Ovulation

Hormones play a crucial role in ovulation. The menstrual cycle is regulated by an intricate interplay of hormones, including FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone), estrogen, and progesterone. FSH jumpstarts the development of follicles in the ovaries containing the eggs. LH stimulates the release of the mature egg from the follicle during ovulation. Estrogen and progesterone help prepare the uterus for pregnancy and regulate the menstrual cycle.

Hormone levels can affect ovulation. Imbalances in hormone levels can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and make conceiving challenging. Conditions such as PCOS or thyroid disorders can affect hormone levels and ovulation. Hormone-based ovulation tracking methods rely on detecting changes in hormone levels to predict ovulation. These methods include tracking changes in basal body temperature or using ovulation predictor kits.

Tracking Ovulation with Fertility Monitors

Fertility monitors are devices that track various fertility signs to predict ovulation. They use advanced technology to measure hormone levels, basal body temperature, and other fertility signs to indicate when ovulation is likely to occur accurately. Fertility monitors can be more accurate than other methods of ovulation tracking because they consider multiple factors and provide real-time data.

Using a fertility monitor involves daily testing and inputting data into the device. The monitor then analyzes the data and predicts when ovulation is likely to occur. Some fertility monitors also provide additional features such as personalized recommendations and reminders.

While fertility monitors can be more expensive than other ovulation tracking methods, they can be a worthwhile investment for couples and individuals struggling to conceive or want a more accurate ovulation prediction.

The Benefits of Ovulation Tracking for Conception

Ovulation tracking offers several benefits for couples and individuals, especially those trying to conceive through donor insemination. First and foremost, it helps identify the fertile window, the best time to have intercourse or perform insemination for successful conception. By timing intercourse or insemination during the fertile window, couples and individuals can maximize their chances of getting pregnant.

Ovulation tracking can also help identify potential fertility issues. If a woman consistently has irregular menstrual cycles or is not ovulating regularly, it may indicate an underlying fertility problem. Couples can identify these issues early by tracking ovulation and seeking professional help.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Ovulation Calculators

While ovulation calculators can be a valuable tool for tracking ovulation, people must correct some common mistakes. One common mistake is relying solely on the calculator without considering other fertility signs. Ovulation calculators provide an estimate based on average cycle lengths, but every woman's cycle is unique. Tracking other indicators, such as basal body temperature and cervical mucus changes, is essential for a more accurate prediction.

Another common mistake is not inputting accurate data into the calculator. Ovulation calculators rely on accurate data about your menstrual cycle to provide accurate predictions. Ensure you input the correct length of your menstrual cycle and any other relevant information.

It is also important to remember that ovulation calculators are not foolproof and cannot guarantee a pregnancy. They are just tools to help identify the most fertile days for conception. It is still essential to have regular intercourse or perform multiple inseminations throughout the menstrual cycle to maximize the chances of getting pregnant.

When to Seek Professional Help for Fertility Issues

If you have been tracking ovulation and trying to conceive for a long time without success, it may be time to seek professional help. It is generally recommended to seek help if you have been trying to conceive through intercourse or donor insemination for a year or more without success or if you are over 35 and have been trying for six months or more.

Different types of fertility specialists can help diagnose and treat fertility issues. These include reproductive endocrinologists, gynecologists, and urologists. They can perform tests to identify underlying fertility problems and recommend appropriate treatments.

Different fertility treatments are also available, depending on the cause of infertility. These include medications to stimulate ovulation, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Your fertility specialist can discuss the options and help you choose the best treatment.

• From Genes to Swimmers: How Genetics Impact Sperm Health
• 6 Foods That Can Boost Fertility
• Cryobank America Family: Exclusive Interview With Christie Murphy On Her IUI Pregnancy Journey
• TRT and Male Fertility: Understanding the Impact on Sperm Count and Quality
• From Sperm Count to Ovarian Reserve: Understanding Fertility Testing for Men and Women