Post-Transfer/2WW

Mantra: Today my body and mind are calm. I breathe and relax. I am the calm between the noise.

Nutrition

The time following transfer often feels like everything has slowed down and the only thing left to do is wait. However, diet at this time is still incredibly important in supporting both implantation and early development of the embryo. Blood sugar control here is key!

Great foods to emphasize include fresh vegetables and low sugar fruits, healthy fats (olive oil, soaked nuts/seeds, avocado) and lean proteins. Cooked, room temperature or warmed foods are best at this time for supporting digestion — particularly if you have pre-existing digestive issues.

To promote overall blood flow and oxygen circulation, look to increase your intake of leafy greens at this time. Research shows regular intake of leafy greens maintains optimal nitric oxide levels, which preliminary data shows to have a significant role in the process of implantation and early pregnancy.

There are so many great recipes for this time, but here are a few favorites:

  • Nourishing, mineral-rich broths from MBG and the High Vibrational Beauty cookbook are great for sipping throughout the day or using in other recipes

  • Bieler’s broth is another favorite right now, along with homemade bone broth

  • 101 Cookbooks is a gem of a website with gorgeous photography. You may also choose to serve these alongside a lean protein (meats, eggs, etc.) or add proteins directly to the recipes themselves.

Mind, Body & Movement

  • Resources: Yoga for IVF after Fresh or Frozen Transfer (no cost!), Expectful guided meditations (subscription), Mindful IVF meditations (subscription)

  • New habits can be a helpful distraction during a time when everything has slowed down. Consider using this time to focus on learning a new skill or hobby, or devoting time again to something that you really enjoy! Artistic and expressive pursuits embody the energy of creation and are a great complement to this phase.
    Also recommended: The Miracle Morning (info) and video: The Miracle Morning.

  • Movement: Meditation for the 2WW (usually a 10-ish day wait post-transfer) and Why It’s Ok to Feel Hopeful During the 2WW (this may feel like a stretch for some, and that’s perfectly ok, too — there’s no need to force yourself into uncomfortable feelings.)

  • Some report success by having their PIO injection right before movement (such as a walk) versus a rest period like bedtime; other tips that can be helpful include warming the vial up to body temperature by keeping it in your bra beforehand and being sure to massage the site after injection.

    Follow your doctor’s instructions on activity in the days immediately following the transfer — these vary by clinic/provider.

Ways to Support a Partner

  • Offer to help with medications (especially the progesterone in oil injections); if your partner would prefer to self-administer this injection, you can also help with comfort measures such as the ice or heat used ahead of time.

  • Now that you are free from the frequent appointments and daily stressors of earlier phases in the IVF process, this is a great time to spend quality time doing fun things together that have nothing to do with fertility treatment! If you’re feeling up to it, dates, movies and just spending time together may help to pass the time more quickly.

  • As the frequency of doctor’s appointments and near-constant feedback on progress slows down, your partner may find this stage of waiting to be the most difficult step of the entire IVF process. Offering an ear simply to listen
    and validate the feelings that arise during this time is a helpful way to show your care and involvement.

“Peace is accepting today, releasing yesterday, and giving up the need of control tomorrow.”
— Unknown

Note: This content is intended only for current patients of Orchid Chinese Medicine and for liability reasons it cannot be shared with others.
These recommendations are based upon our training and professional experience providing IVF support for over 17 years.
However, they are not a substitute or replacement for the directions of your Reproductive Endocrinologist.