What Should You Do While Waiting to Know if You Are Pregnant | Dr Lora Shahine

Dr Lora Shahine13 minutes read

Dr. Shaheen advises on managing the two-week wait after procedures, emphasizing avoiding Google searches, early testing, and extreme lifestyle changes. She highlights the importance of distraction, self-care, and having a plan for emotional well-being during this challenging period.

Insights

  • During the two-week wait after procedures like intrauterine insemination or embryo transfer, it is essential to avoid Googling early pregnancy signs, testing prematurely, or making drastic lifestyle changes to maintain emotional stability and prevent unnecessary anxiety.
  • Dr. Laura Shaheen stresses the significance of distractions, self-care, and having a well-thought-out plan for various outcomes during this challenging period to effectively manage emotions and uncertainties associated with potential pregnancy, ensuring a balanced and prepared approach.

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Recent questions

  • How long does it take for an embryo to implant?

    About two weeks

  • What are some distractions recommended during the two-week wait?

    Organizing tasks, reading, trying new hobbies

  • Is it advisable to Google early pregnancy signs during the two-week wait?

    No

  • What lifestyle changes should be avoided during the two-week wait?

    Drastic changes

  • How can one prepare emotionally for the two-week wait?

    Have a plan for positive and negative outcomes

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Summary

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Survival Tips for Two-Week Wait Stress

  • Dr. Laura Shaheen, a reproductive endocrinologist, discusses survival tips for the two-week wait, a challenging period between potential pregnancy and confirmation.
  • The waiting period is crucial after procedures like intrauterine insemination or embryo transfer, as it takes time for the embryo to implant and produce the pregnancy hormone beta hCG.
  • The two-week wait can be mentally taxing due to uncertainties and worries about pregnancy signs, impacting daily activities and causing anxiety.
  • Dr. Shaheen advises against Googling early pregnancy signs, testing too soon, or making drastic lifestyle changes during the two-week wait.
  • She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent exercise routine and avoiding extreme changes based on potential pregnancy.
  • Distraction, self-care, and having a plan are key during the two-week wait to manage emotions and uncertainties effectively.
  • Distraction suggestions include organizing tasks, reading, reconnecting with a partner, trying new hobbies, and exploring new activities.
  • Self-care involves being kind to oneself, practicing gratitude, mindfulness, meditation, and setting aside time for relaxation and enjoyment.
  • Having a plan for both positive and negative outcomes, including discussing next steps with the clinic, scheduling follow-up appointments, or considering a break, is crucial for emotional preparedness.
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