How to Get Through the Two-Week Wait Without Going Crazy

Ah, the two-week wait. For women navigating fertility treatments, this stretch feels like an eternity. After the whirlwind of clinic appointments, uncomfortable injections, and probing ultrasounds, the real test is waiting those torturous 14 days to find out if it all paid off. While I can’t speed up time (believe me, I’d be rich if I could!), I can share some strategies to help you keep your sanity intact.

1. Log Off, Seriously.

Take a break from the internet. Don’t fall into the rabbit hole of searching for pregnancy odds or reading miscarriage stories—trust me, that leads to tears. And whatever you do, avoid the forums on Baby Center; it will only fuel your anxiety.

2. Tune Out the “Symptoms.”

If you can manage it, pretend your body is on vacation. Ignore those little sensations—twinges, cramps, and gas could mean anything. Remember: that odd feeling might just be your dinner settling rather than a sign of pregnancy. Above all, stick to rule number one: no Googling!

Your body has been through a lot, especially if you underwent an egg retrieval. Don’t be alarmed if you’re not feeling 100% right away. However, if you experience severe abdominal pain or other serious symptoms, get medical attention immediately.

3. Find Your Support Squad.

Whether online or in person, having a solid support system is vital. While your partner is likely doing their best to be there for you, connecting with women who share similar experiences can be incredibly comforting. Together, you can navigate the highs and lows of this journey.

4. Lighten Up with Laughter.

Infertility can be a heavy topic, but sometimes a little humor goes a long way. Join a support group where members can share amusing ideas related to the wait. For instance, we once created imaginary ice cream flavors like “Double-Deca Swirl” and “Mind-Fuck Fudge” to cope with the stress. It’s all about perspective!

5. Schedule Your Obsession.

It’s normal to feel anxious as you count down the days. Allocate a specific time to voice all your worries and thoughts—say, 10 minutes—to a trusted friend. Let it all out, then move on until the next session. It might just help clear your mind!

6. Accept the Uncontrollable.

Here’s the reality check: nothing you do will change the outcome of your treatment. If it doesn’t work, it’s not because you didn’t lay still long enough or because you were too emotional. The best approach is to continue living your life. Sure, don’t run a marathon right now, but you can still engage in regular activities. If you did IVF, listen to your body and rest as needed.

7. Decide on a Testing Approach.

Some women prefer to take home pregnancy tests (POAS) in private, while others wait for the clinic’s official blood test results. If you opt for POAS, be cautious not to test too early, as it may lead to false positives due to leftover trigger shot hormones.

8. Plan a Special Evening for Test Night.

Set up a little celebration for the night you get your results. If it’s negative, indulge in your favorite treats—go for that glass of wine, or devour sushi without worry. You might want to curl up on the couch, but treating yourself to something special can make a big difference. If the result is positive, savor that moment—it’s just the beginning of a whole new journey.

For more insights on home insemination, check out this informative post. If you’re considering at-home options, Make a Mom is a great resource for kits. Also, Parents offers excellent information on the IVF process.

In summary, while waiting those two weeks can feel unbearable, using these strategies can help you navigate the uncertainty with a bit more ease and humor.