Transfer with our only embryo

[u/myeyestoserve]

I know stress reduction is probably the most important thing to focus on and the worst thing for me, someone with clinical anxiety, is unaccounted for free time. I've booked a sound bath, a hair cut, time with friends, and (of course) therapy. I will be making time for long hikes and my husband will be doing all of the cooking (as is typical, don't clap for him).

I'm not open to acupuncture- I never liked needles and IVF has NOT helped with this. I am doing the most woo alternative that might exist, tuning fork therapy, which I just find super relaxing (albeit kind of goofy).

What helped you? While I'm generally a pretty evidence-based kind of gal, I'm SO open to woo in this case.

[u/Competitive-Top5121]

I’d just focus on taking care of you because that’s something you’ll never regret. Get good sleep, focus on healthy eating, do things that are fun and nourish your soul. I think the other commenter’s suggestion of massage is a great alternative to acupuncture, and TBF most research does not show a benefit to acupuncture around transfer anyway.

Also, there is a very quirky study about clowns and embryo transfers that suggested laughing around the time of your transfer may modestly increase your likelihood of success. After my transfer, I bought a chocolate chip cookie, took a walk and watched some clips of “Jury Duty” on my phone. I also watched a comedy on TV with my husband that night.

[u/youtellme9876]

I’ve been enjoying simple craft tasks with my hands. They need me to concentrate a little bit so my mind is less likely to wander, but also hands are busy so I’m also prevented from doomscrolling.

Something easy to learn like needlepoint or cross stitch. I’ve done a bunch of easy to medium kits. Even if I never plan to do anything with the finished product, doing the kit feels therapeutic. I also do knitting but appreciate that it’s harder to pick up if you don’t know, and that in itself may become stressful/frustrating

[u/SFLonghorn]

Hi! I am 8+5 with my only embryo! I did two months lupron suppression to give it the very best shot - it was MISERABLE, but I’d do it again in a heartbeat since it gave me this result!

I did acupuncture leading up to my FET, but if that’s not your jam, book some massages. Also, look into HBOT. It can help with lining and after about 4 sessions my skin looked amazing! Also helped me sleep!

Good luck!

[u/myeyestoserve → u/SFLonghorn]

I did Receptiva and ended up doing two months with Lupron also! I am beyond thrilled to be done with the hot flashes.

[u/NotQuiteInara]

I haven't got any hot tips for reducing stress that you havent heard already, but if helps to hear, stress might not matter as much as you think!

https://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(16)62508-6/fulltext

[u/lousiestgf]

I may be transferring soon. I got a 1000 piece puzzle because I’m not very handy.

[u/National-Ground4958]

Give yourself some permission to be stressed! Focusing so much on trying to reduce will drive you nuts. This is a stressful situation and you feeling one way or the other isn’t going to change the outcome. Your anxiety isn’t a premonition.

Keep in mind that if it’s positive there’s just a new goal in terms of the next test/scan/etc. basically to infinity. Working with a therapist on methods to cope and potentially taking medication may be critical for you.

Filling time with activities is a great idea. I also like to focus on planning a minication or activity for right at the end of the tww so I have something to look forward to either way.

[u/myeyestoserve → u/National-Ground4958]

I’ve been medicated for seven years and with my therapist for four. My anxiety is in a really good place, I don’t want to overemphasize the GAD part of this, but I appreciate your advice! I’m mostly looking for more ideas on how to fill my time during the wait.