For many women or couples who have to rely on assisted reproductive treatments because their pregnancy does not come naturally, all the waiting time can be an anxious situation.
One of the first “waits” that assisted reproduction patients encounter, and possibly the one that generates the most uncertainty and fear, is the so-called “beta wait”.
Beta wait refers to the time between the artificial intrauterine insemination or embryo transfer (depending on the treatment performed) and the dreaded blood pregnancy test. It usually lasts between 11 and 14 days and is so called because the beta HCG hormone is what we analyse in fertility clinics on the day of the test. That long-awaited date, when a pregnancy test at the fertility clinic will confirm that, in the best case scenario, everything has proceeded successfully.
What to expect when using assisted reproduction to achieve pregnancy
Resorting to assisted reproduction is a good decision, but it is often accompanied by a certain degree of anxiety.
It is normal that questions arise such as “will I manage to get pregnant this time”, “when will I succeed”, “will it take a long time”, “won’t there be complications and will I be able to carry it to term”. At the same time, these kinds of uncertainties are accompanied by periods of great hope, but also pessimism, which will be influenced by the particular situation of each woman or couple, previous attempts made or previous diagnosis.
Some couples share their doubts and fears and there is mutual support, but not all women experience it in the same way. There are women who share this situation with those closest to them, but other times there is not enough empathy, which can increase these feelings of loneliness or fears.
This roulette of emotions during this period will affect daily life, however, we must try to minimise these effects that bring us high levels of anxiety.
These tips can help you cope with the beta wait.
1. Don’t read everything on the internet
In the past, we only had information from books, as well as from doctors, on how assisted reproductive treatments are carried out. Nowadays, we have the Internet, with an infinite range of texts, options, opinions (be careful with this), and information… which is not always reliable.
We end up becoming experts on the subject, don’t we? It all depends on how you look at it. You should be aware that too much information can be even more harmful because of the anguish it generates, than beneficial.
It can be good to have support networks, of course, from people who are or have been in your situation, but you should never forget that each case is unique and that the only person who can resolve any doubts associated with your specific case is the medical staff who will be in charge of your treatment.
2. Don’t be on the lookout for possible symptoms
During the beta wait, it will be common for you to be overflowing with enthusiasm and believe that you feel, even from the first day, signs of being pregnant. You should be aware that the medications used in assisted reproductive treatments can cause certain side effects that can lead to a misinterpretation of reality.
If you feel nausea, cramps, or any pregnancy-like symptoms, take it easy. Just as the absence of symptoms is not associated with a negative outcome.
3. Do activities that make you feel good
Do relaxing activities that you enjoy and focus on them. Mindfulness techniques will help you stay in the here and now through breathing and other relaxation techniques. Meditation or yoga can help you keep nervousness and anxiety at bay, even help you accept that an outcome you don’t want may occur.
Go for a walk, go to the beach, to the mountains, paint or do any hobby that brings you wellbeing.
4. Keep people around you who bring you positive things
Go out with your friends, don’t always talk about the same subject. Communicate with your partner, but choose your moments. Listen to each other and respect each other’s emotions, as everyone can deal with it differently.
5. Accept how you feel
It is completely natural to go through emotional ups and downs, especially if you have undergone assisted reproductive treatment before. This is all part of the process and you should accept it. Allow yourself to feel sad, nervous or pessimistic, but don’t blame yourself for it. Even say it out loud, release it. After that, think about what you can do to improve your mood.
Eat healthy and balanced meals (there are no magic foods that will make you pregnant) and get enough sleep, it’s important to rest. Do something that makes you feel good while you get the results.
At NOVA FIV we accompany you during the beta waiting period
We are an assisted reproduction clinic in Cádiz and we will help you achieve your pregnancy with the help of specialists in reproductive medicine and state-of-the-art treatments and equipment. We are located in Calle Jaén, local 2, Travesía de Gualdalcacín, in Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz. You can call us on 645 96 01 30 / 956 15 82 25 or email us at hola@novafiv.com. You can also fill in the contact form with your details and we will contact you.
