How to Survive the Wait Between ART Treatment and Pregnancy Test
Advancing age in males and females leads to a decrease in fertility, and hence, many infertile couples opt for assisted reproductive technologies [ART] to achieve biological parenthood. One of the key determinants of achieving a live outcome of ART, embryo quality, depends on both the quality of the egg and sperm that have created the fetus.
Photo credit: Nataliya Vaitkevich via pexels
How to Survive the Wait Between ART Treatment and Pregnancy Test
Two long weeks to wait. 14 days before knowing whether the fertility treatment was successful. For people trying to conceive through artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization (IVF), the waiting period after ART treatment is a source of anxiety and uncertainty. After all these years of trying to conceive, will the pregnancy test finally come back positive?
Check out our tips to help you get through that long wait without pulling all your hair out.
Go out
Don't stay cloistered at home waiting for time to pass. Go out, visit your friends or family, go shopping or to the cinema... It's up to you but multiply the distractions! Admittedly, you may not be up for it, but getting some fresh air and trying to think of something else can only do you good.
Share your worries with your loved ones
You are not alone. Your partner, your future co-parent, your friends, or your family are there to help you. Share what's on your mind, they may understand you better than you think. And in the absence of good advice, they will at least be able to lend you an attentive ear. Remember to change the subject from time to time you can talk about something other than ART treatment!
Moreover, for many men and women, writing down their thoughts and feelings can be liberating. Get a notebook and a pen and express yourself!
Try various relaxation techniques to reduce stress
All techniques that can help you relax are good to take yoga, tai chi, meditation, breathing exercises, or even acupuncture. You can also tell your partner to send you a message. In short, try what makes you feel good.
Avoid unnecessary sources of stress
During these two weeks of anguish and worry, you don't have to see that super happy friend who just found out she's pregnant or those who only talk about their beloved children. Take care of yourself and avoid stressful situations.
Do things you like
During this trying time, balance your stress and other negative emotions by increasing the activities you enjoy. Do you like gardening, dancing, drawing, or scrapbooking? That's good, these activities are very relaxing because they allow you to focus on something other than your anxieties.
Don't hesitate to do something special with your spouse, whether it's a walk in the park, a restaurant, or a country picnic. Have fun!
Stay positive
Strike out phrases like “the treatment didn't work” or “I'll never get pregnant ” from your vocabulary. These negative phrases are useless, painful, and guilt-inducing. At this stage, you have no control over the final outcome of the fertility treatment anyway.
To help you keep control of your emotions, replace these negative phrases with positive affirmations as soon as they arise and inhale deeply. Be optimistic!
Lauretta Iyamu (she/her) is a freelance medical writer and health content strategist. She completed her Doctor of Pharmacy degree (PharmD) at the University of Benin, Nigeria, and holds a Postgraduate diploma certificate in Clinical Research. Lauretta has over five years of experience in various patient-facing roles as a clinical pharmacist and over 9 years of experience in the healthcare industry researching, reporting, editing, and producing a variety of health and web content. Her passion is to convey scientific research and innovation to a broader audience by presenting it in a simpler way.
Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider or qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.
Sources
1. Colaco S, Sakkas D. Paternal factors contributing to embryo quality. J Assist Reprod Genet. 2018 Nov;35(11):1953-1968. doi: 10.1007/s10815-018-1304-4. Epub 2018 Sep 11. PMID: 30206748; PMCID: PMC6240539. (Accessed July 2022)
2. Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology – Preparing for IVF; Emotional consideration (Accessed July 2022)
