IVF is NOT easy Setting expectations is essential Every person’s experience is unique but there is a lot of hype, fear, misconceptions about how ‘awful’ IVF is I always ask at the follow up visit, 'How was the cycle for you?" And the majority of patients answer "Not as bad as I thought it would be." The shots, the appointments, the recovery. In my experience, the patients who have the hardest time with IVF cycle are the ones that expect it to be easy, the ones that are expected to not disrupt their every day life. Planning ahead, asking questions, and being realistic with expectations can decrease frustration and stress. What to expect during the busiest time of the IVF process: 10-14 days leading up to the egg retrieval: Expect to have 4-5 appointments during that time – ask your clinic how long they will be, buffer for delays, traffic – try to lighten work and responsibilities on the days of appointments. Expect to take the whole day off of work and responsibilities on the day of the egg retrieval and realize that we cannot predict which day this will be – your clinic can give you an estimate and at each checkup appointment you’ll get an update on progress – patients can get so frustrated if they expect their retrieval on a certain day but we recommend a different one to optimize success for your cycle. Plan ahead and decrease the chances of having a crucial meeting, project due, etc. for 3-4 days around the expected day of retrieval. Expect to be bloated and tired during the process – decrease responsibilities, don’t volunteer for anything you don’t have to do – don’t be frustrated that pants are tight or you’re exhausted at the end of the day and in bed earlier than usual - remind yourself that's these side effects are temporary. Be kind to yourself!! Ask for help with tasks and responsibilities at home and at work! ✨Information and expectations are key so get informed, be prepared, and most of all be kind to yourself in the process!✨ More resources: My YouTube channel Baby or Bust podcast My website and blog #linkinbio👆 📸 @jennrepp.photo