If you’re starting your first IVF cycle, you’re probably feeling a mix of hope, nerves, and a million questions. You’re not alone in this.

It’s a big step, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed.

This guide will walk you through what to expect at each stage of the process, while also sharing a few key tips to help you manage your emotions and feel supported along the way.

P.S. If you’re looking for even more clarity, download my free guide: Decode Your Fertility Tests – The Clarity You Need for IVF Success.

The IVF Process: What Happens at Each Stage

The IVF Process: What Happens at Each Stage

1. Stimulation Injections: 

• What happens: Daily hormone injections (starting around day 2–3) help your ovaries grow multiple eggs instead of just one.
• What to expect: Bloating, fatigue, and mood swings are common—it’s your body responding to the hormones. Be gentle with yourself!
  

2. Monitoring Scans & Blood Tests: 

• What happens: Around day 8–10, you’ll have your first scan to check follicle growth. Expect 1–2 more scans before egg retrieval.
• What to expect: This stage is all about finding your “recipe,” so extra scans are normal and important.
  

3. Trigger Injection: 

• What happens: A precisely timed shot (36 hours before retrieval) to mature your eggs.
• What to expect: Bloating and fullness, mild cramps and fatigue.
  

4. Egg Collection (Retrieval): 

• What happens: A day procedure under light sedation where eggs are collected with a fine needle.
• What to expect: Rest afterward, use heat packs for cramping, and stay hydrated.
  

5. Fertilisation & Embryo Growth: 

• What happens: Eggs are mixed with sperm, and the embryologist monitors growth over 3–5 days.
• What to expect: It’s normal for not all eggs to fertilize or grow into embryos. For example, 12 eggs might result in 3–5 embryos.
  

6. Embryo Transfer: 

• What happens: A healthy embryo is placed into your uterus. Some clinics transfer fresh embryos, while others freeze them for later.
• What to expect: If you’re doing genetic testing, results can take 4–6 weeks.
  

7. The Two-Week Wait: 

• What happens: Hormone support (like progesterone) continues, and a blood test 10–14 days later confirms pregnancy.
• What to expect: This is often the hardest part emotionally. Focus on self-care and set boundaries to protect your energy.
  

Managing Expectations + Emotions

How to Stay Grounded Through the Ups and Downs

1. Managing Expectations
   • Your first cycle is about learning how your body responds to medications. Think of it as finding your unique recipe. One cycle doesn’t define your entire journey.
2. Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster
   • Protect your energy. Say no to non-essential commitments and set boundaries with people or situations that drain you.
   • It’s okay to prioritise yourself right now – this process is big, and your mental health matters.
3. Asking for Support
   • Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether it’s letting your boss know about appointments or leaning on a close friend.
   • Use your support team. Call the nurses, book acupuncture, or speak with a psychologist. You don’t have to do this alone.

Practical Tips for Your First IVF Cycle

Set Yourself Up for Success: Practical Advice for IVF Beginners

• Plan Your Questions: Write down everything you want to ask your specialist or nurse. No question is too small!
• Plan for Flexibility: Be prepared for last-minute schedule changes, especially around egg retrieval and transfer.
• Prepare for Costs: Understand medication costs, payment plans, and any extra fees to reduce stress later. Check if your private health insurance covers pharmacy costs.
• Take Care of Your Body: Stay hydrated, keep up gentle movement like yoga or walking, and rest when you need to.

Your first IVF cycle is a big step, and it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions as you go through it.

Remember, this journey is about progress, not perfection. Take it one day at a time, lean on your support system, and know that you are stronger than you think. You’ve got this.

✨ If you’re preparing for IVF and want more support, download my free guide: Decode Your Fertility Tests – The Clarity You Need for IVF Success.

Share this with a friend who is planning their first IVF cycle xx