Trying To Stay Stress-free During The Two-Week Wait
For women or couples unfamiliar with the idea of the two-week wait (TWW), the phrase describes the period between when a couple planned sex during ovulation and when enough time has passed for pregnancy hormone levels to be high enough to detect in a pregnancy test. However, TWW also applies to women and couples that undergo fertility treatments. The time frame covers the two weeks that would normally pass during a menstrual cycle between ovulation and a woman’s period. And for couples trying to conceive, those two weeks can feel like emotional rollercoasters.
Avoid obsessive internet searches for symptoms
When pregnancy is the goal, women and couples can easily fall down the rabbit hole of internet searches trying to find information about early pregnancy symptoms. Unfortunately, many of the most notable early pregnancy symptoms are the same as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. And in many cases, a woman can become pregnant without ever feeling any of the presumed early pregnancy symptoms. Even the medical community doesn’t put a lot of weight on early symptoms when testing for pregnancy.
Have supportive people on hand
Trying to conceive can start to feel like an isolating experience, especially if a couple takes longer to conceive than either partner expected. But having a supportive community to help reframe thinking or even helpfully commiserate can be a big help. If close friends and family aren’t able to provide the support needed, consider joining a support group.
Consider meditation or relaxation techniques
When trying to conceive, a big fat positive (BFP) can be the only thought that occupies a woman’s mind. But sometimes, relaxation techniques are a great way to help manage anxiety. While traditional meditation or yoga is a great option, women and couples should also consider engaging in fun activities that take the mind off of obsessing over conceiving. Consider going out for some exercise, watching favorite shows, or even going for a massage to indulge in some self-care.
Avoid obsessive pregnancy testing
There’s a reason medical professionals discourage women and couples from taking pregnancy tests too soon after ovulation. Testing too soon will produce inevitable negative results, and can be demoralizing. Even with a blood test, which is incredibly accurate and detects pregnancy sooner than at-home tests, the earliest reliable results won’t be detected until six to eight days after ovulation. Experts agree that waiting until the first day after a missed period is best for accurate at-home testing results. So, couples should put down the at-home test and let a bit more time pass.
Learning to wait
Trying to stay calm and unbothered during the TWW can be a scenario that’s easier said than done. However, any woman or couple that’s actively tried to conceive understands how stressful the experience can be. Beyond waiting to take a pregnancy test, finding productive activities to fill the days is the best way to help manage stress and expectations until the testing window begins.
