Anguish, illusion, uncertainty... these emotions are common during the waiting-beta, but... you know what it is? Why does it have this name?
¿What is the waiting-beta?
The waiting-beta is the period of time from which the patient undergoes assisted reproductive treatment (either by embryo transfer after in vitro fertilization, introduction of semen into an artificial insemination, or egg donation) until the pregnancy test is performed. This period usually lasts approximately 9 to 15 days.
Its name is due to the hormone that is measured in the pregnancy test - beta-HCG or human chorionic gonadotropin.
¿Are there any symptoms that tell us if the test is positive or negative?
During this wait, everything we feel seems to have to do with the result, but it really isn’t. In this period there may be symptoms or not. If there are, they are similar to the typical symptoms of pregnancy (nausea, abdominal discomfort...), which raises doubts regarding the result. The reality is that these symptoms are usually related to the medication taken for ovarian stimulation.
So, we can conclude that there is no symptom that allows us to know the result.
Tips for coping with waiting-beta
Managing uncertainty can be distressing and exhausting, so here are some tips to keep it from getting so hard.
- Do not take the pregnancy test before the day scheduled: we know that the waiting time is long but doing it ahead of time will only create confusion. HCG-level can give a false negative if the test was performed before two weeks after the treatment.
- Keep your mind busy: although it sounds typical, it is very important. When the mind is busy, we do not focus on anything but what we're doing. This doesn't mean you stop thinking about the future, sometimes it's unavoidable and you shouldn't feel guilty about it. The important thing is to know how to redirect your mind to what you're doing.
- Accept your emotions: You will have moments of illusion and moments of desperation. You will want to know what is going to happen and the nerves will take over you. This is normal. It is important that you accept your emotions and that you do not try to fight them. Follow the point above: Distract your mind!
- Smooth physical activity is recommended: Resting does not mean staying on the couch all day. Activities like walking are a very good option.
- Do activities you like: the mood during the waiting-beta-result tends to change, so performing activities you enjoy will help you stay in good mood.
- Socialize yourself: Feeling the support of our loved ones reduces distress and will also help you not think about the outcome.
In Barcelona IVF we accompany you at all times. Trust us!