“Always believe that something wonderful is about to happen”
Recently undergone an embryo transfer? Then this one is really for you!
The whole phase of infertility is already a distressing one, but the real test of your patience comes after the embryo is transferred in your womb. This period of time is just like the time when a school student waits for his result eagerly. This would be a tough time, full of anxiety and nervousness. DO NOT stress yourself much; this is the actual time where you need to keep all of your patience altogether.
For all those who have not undergone the embryo transfer yet and are planning to do so, have a brief look on what exactly embryo transfer is.
What is Embryo Transfer?
One of the crucial steps in the process of Assisted Reproduction Techniques (ART) is the ‘Embryo transfer’. It involves the placing of the embryo into a woman’s uterus leading her to become pregnant. It takes about full 2 weeks to get implanted in the uterus.
During the IVF treatment, the embryo is left in the laboratory dish with the sperms for fertilisation. After the confirmation of fertilisation, the embryos are placed in a growth fluid and kept for observation. The doctors mark the best and high qualified embryo for transfer. Mostly the doctors choose to perform genetic testing to detect inheritable diseases and chromosomal abnormalities, if any. The embryo is then cultured up to a period of 6 days in the laboratory and is then ready for the transfer.
Things to keep in mind while embryo transfer!
The “two weeks” wait is already a tough one and then you are piled up with loads of advices with your near ones. Of course, they are caring for you, it is good; but knowing no or half facts and advising you is simply wrong. There are many misconceptions related to embryo transfer; you and your family should be completely aware of the facts. Know below about what the things you should do and not to do after the embryo transfer.
Do’s
Listen to your doctor carefully!
Your doctor is aware of all your medical conditions; following his instructions is the first thing you need to do. All the medications that have been prescribed to you should be taken regularly as it is given to increase the flow of blood and to protect the uterine lining hence leading towards successful implantation.
Intake of healthy food!
You should take healthy and balanced diet full of proteins, fibres and vegetables. Avoidance of foods like high mercury fish and other harmful substances like alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine is highly advisable. Make your diet chart as if you are pregnant. Also, you can ask your doctor about any vitamin or other supplements to take.
Keep yourself Mentally Fit!
The whole process of IVF treatment requires lots of patience and mental well-being. Keeping your stress levels low is what all you need. Practising meditation for at least an hour will help you the best in staying calm.
Seek help from your Near Ones!
In this anxious stage, you will need help from your peers, family and especially your partner.
Spend quality time with him, you can plan a dinner or go out for a movie together. Surrounding yourselves with all the positive energy would help you more.
Do Not Panic!
Yes, we understand that getting panicked is evident. There is a slightest possibility of occurrence of spotting after the embryo transfer. Try to stay calm and immediately inform your doctor about it.
Don’ts
Full time Bed Rest – Strictly Prohibited!
This is the biggest myth amongst the couples that after the embryo transfer, the female partner should be on complete bed rest. You may think that you should rest the most otherwise it will hamper the implantation process. Wrong. In fact there is a reverse effect; hence you should do rest only when needed.
Refrain from Vigorous exercise!
You can do normal workout but abstain yourself from vigorous exercises as your ovaries are comparatively tender at this stage and it may also harm your uterine lining. Some doctors also advise to refrain yourself from sexual intercourse. Be on the safer side, and choose to avoid it.
Avoid extremes of temperature!
In time span of those two weeks, it would be better if you do not submerge yourself in water i.e. going into swimming pools or other water bodies or else you may be prone to infections. Also avoid hot tubs, saunas, hot yoga as it will raise your body temperature which is not good for you.
Do not expect much!
It is understandable that you have travelled a long journey of infertility via the IVF treatment and you are just one step behind your dream of becoming a parent yet you should try to be neutral in your thoughts. Do not over or under expect!
Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations. Take a deep breath and walk positively towards your destination. Just keep the aforementioned points in mind and you will have a better experience in that “two weeks wait”.
