Tips from Dr. Ali Domar on How to Navigate the “Two-Week Wait” for Pregnancy Test Results
Many individuals and couples who have undergone some form of infertility treatment report that waiting for the results of a pregnancy test is the hardest part of their cycle. This may seem surprising since many forms of infertility treatment are intense, but the waiting period (whether it’s after intrauterine insemination (IUI) or after an embryo transfer) is likely to be emotionally challenging.
If you’re struggling with the two-week wait, check out these tips from Dr. Alice Domar, our Chief Compassion Officer, on how to feel as emotionally comfortable as possible during this challenging time.
- Remember that your thoughts won’t impact your results. There is currently no research that feeling anxious, irritable, angry, or any other type of negative emotion will decrease your chances of a positive pregnancy test. Still, we recognize that these emotions are unpleasant to experience, and we recommend practicing relaxation techniques that are most effective for you – whether it’s completing a hobby that brings you joy, reducing the amount of time you’re scrolling on social media, or talking through your emotions with a trusted friend or family member.
- Don’t feel like you need to walk on eggshells after an embryo transfer. Did you know many women fear their recently transferred embryo will fall out of their uterus? We’re here to bust that myth! There is no possibility of embryos falling out, so don’t feel like hopping over a puddle or driving on a bumpy road will impact your pregnancy results. Just be sure to follow your discharge instructions from your physician.
- Expect confusing symptoms if you’re taking progesterone in any form. Progesterone can mimic signs of early pregnancy. You may experience fatigue, nausea, or your breasts may feel sensitive if you’ve been prescribed progesterone. You may also feel nothing at all. Some women who conceive after infertility treatment may experience bleeding or spotting following an embryo transfer, even up to the pregnancy test. The presence or absence of these symptoms will not give you a clue as to whether you are pregnant, that’s why all patients need to visit the clinic for a blood test to determine pregnancy.
- Know that the two-week wait can feel more like a month! All cycles can feel like they last forever, and the more cycles you’ve undergone, the longer it can feel. While you are in-cycle, it can be helpful to make a list of all the things you enjoy doing that could potentially distract you during waiting periods. The more intense the concentration needed, the better!
- Surround yourself with a support network. This is the ideal time to gather with friends and family members you can rely on in any circumstance and the people in your network you know will be sensitive to what you’re going through (won’t complain about their kids or offer unsolicited advice, etc.).
- Screen your phone calls. Sometimes seeking out support from friends and family members as you cycle can result in them asking for frequent updates. This is easier when things are going well, but it becomes much harder if you’ve had a bad or disappointing day. It can be helpful to appoint someone as your primary point of contact – you can communicate any updates to this person as it suits you, and anyone else who wants to know how you’re doing can get an update through them.
- Set aside dedicated time in the afternoon or evening the day you receive your pregnancy test results. Decide whether you want to be alone or with someone else when you receive the results and give yourself that time to absorb the news – whether it’s positive or not.
- Walk whatever line you need to between optimism and pessimism. Some people feel more comfortable expecting their pregnancy to be successful, while others cope more easily if they assume their treatment won’t There is no one right way to feel! One way to balance those feelings is to develop a plan for what to do if your cycle is unsuccessful. It could be moving on to the next level of treatment, updating your medication dosage, or taking time off to improve your mental and physical health. Anything that helps you feel comfortable is worth a try!
- Remember your physician and care team are still there for you! They haven’t disappeared simply because you’re in the waiting phase of a cycle. If you have a question or a concern, give them a call or send them a message through the patient portal. The worst thing you can do is sit and spiral, especially when a quick conversation or short email can put your mind at ease.
- Consider speaking with a mental health professional if you are really struggling during this waiting period. Almost all of our fertility clinics have relationships with one or more mental health professionals with special training in infertility. Ask your care team for more information.
As you navigate the two-week wait, remember that it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. By following these tips from Dr. Domar, you can create a more manageable and supportive environment. Whether it’s engaging in activities you love, seeking comfort from your support network, or reaching out to your care team, you have various tools at your disposal to help ease the emotional challenges of this period.
