The two-week wait can be an emotional rollercoaster for those trying to conceive. During these 14 days, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. It can even feel like time is passing slower than normal.
So, how can you cope during this time? What should you expect? Below, we offer two-week wait tips, answers to common questions, and more.
What is the Two-Week Wait?
The two-week wait is the time between potential conception and a reliable pregnancy test. It starts after ovulation in natural cycles or after fertility treatments—such as IUI or IVF.
During this time, a fertilized egg may implant in the uterus. However, it often takes about two weeks for pregnancy hormones to become detectable via an at-home pregnancy test.
What Happens During the Two-Week Wait?
If pregnancy occurs, the two-week wait consists of fertilization and implantation. This means the sperm fertilized an egg either inside your body (timed intercourse or IUI) or outside of the body if you are undergoing IVF. As a result, it begins dividing into more cells to become an embryo. Eventually, around day 6 to 12, the embryo implants in the uterine lining.
If implantation occurs, the body starts producing pregnancy hormones. This means some individuals may experience subtle early pregnancy symptoms. As these pregnancy hormones increase, they eventually become detectable on tests.
Early pregnancy symptoms can be similar to premenstrual (PMS) symptoms. These similarities can make this waiting time particularly challenging and emotional.
What Happens After the Two-Week Wait?
At the end of these two weeks, it’s time to take a pregnancy test:
- If the test is positive: Congratulations! Your next step is to confirm the result with your doctor. They may perform additional blood tests to check hormone levels and will likely schedule an early ultrasound within the next few weeks.
- If the test is negative: This can be difficult to process, and it’s natural to feel disappointed. Occasionally, hormone levels are still rising, so your doctor might recommend a follow-up test. Either way, your fertility team can guide you on the next steps based on your unique situation.
If the test is negative and your period begins, it can be a deeply disappointing end to this cycle. It’s natural to feel a range of emotions. Conception can take time, and many choose to continue with another cycle or meet with their doctor to discuss possible adjustments to their treatment plan. Others may decide to take a break to regroup emotionally.
Whatever the outcome, remember that your well-being—both physical and mental—matters. Each fertility journey is unique, and it’s okay to seek support whenever you need it.
The Two-Week Wait Symptoms
During the two-week wait, many individuals may experience a range of symptoms. However, it’s important to remember that these symptoms can vary widely. Some may also not experience any symptoms at all.
Symptoms may result from:
- Hormonal changes
- Early pregnancy
- Or even side effects of fertility treatments—like hormone injections and/or vaginal tablets
In the following sections, we examine the emotional and physical symptoms you may experience.
Emotional Symptoms During the Two-Week Wait
The two-week wait can be emotionally challenging. The uncertainty about the outcome can create varying degrees of stress and anxiety. Common emotional symptoms you may be experiencing include:
- Anxiety and Worry: The anticipation of whether or not the treatment has been successful can lead to heightened anxiety. Additionally, the desire to see a positive pregnancy test may also add to your stress.
- Mood Swings: Hormonal fluctuations during this time can cause mood swings. You may feel hopeful in one moment and sad or frustrated in the next.
- Excitement: While many fluctuate between different emotions, you may sometimes feel excited. This may arise from the potential of a conception.
- Fear of Failure: Many worry about the possibility of the treatment not working, which can contribute to self-doubt and fear.
- Exhaustion: This is particularly true for those undergoing fertility treatments. You may feel exhausted by the process and the many emotions that come with it.
- Helplessness: You may struggle to think about anything else during this time, and it can feel as though nothing you do will help.
- Confusion: You may wonder if you’re pregnant or not. Small symptoms may trigger thoughts that you’re pregnant. Meanwhile, you may also experience denial. For instance, you may think that if it hasn’t worked before, why would it work now?
No matter what you’re feeling, it’s important to take care of yourself emotionally. Coping methods, such as deep breathing, meditation, gentle yoga, and more, may help you get through this time with greater ease.
Physical Symptoms During the Two-Week Wait
Physical symptoms during this time can be confusing. They may overlap with typical menstrual symptoms or early pregnancy signs. These symptoms may also be related to fertility medications and treatments, not just pregnancy.
Common physical symptoms include:
- Cramping or Abdominal Discomfort: Some individuals may experience mild cramping, similar to period pains. This can be a result of implantation or hormonal changes.
- Breast Tenderness: Sensitive or swollen breasts are common. This is often caused by increased progesterone levels or early pregnancy.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or drained is another potential symptom during this period. Hormonal shifts, particularly elevated progesterone, can make one feel more fatigued than usual.
- Bloating: Some may experience bloating. This is frequently due to hormonal fluctuations, particularly increased progesterone.
- Spotting: Light spotting, known as implantation bleeding, can occur if the embryo implants into the uterine wall. This usually happens around six to 12 days after ovulation.
- Increased Basal Body Temperature (BBT): If you track your BBT, you may notice it remains elevated during this time. This could indicate a potential pregnancy.
These symptoms can significantly vary from person to person. Again, some people may experience all of the above, while others may not have any of these symptoms this early on.
Dealing With the Two-Week Wait: Lifestyle Tips
Lifestyle tips can play a big role in managing stress and supporting your well-being during the two-week wait. So, what are the best things to do—and avoid—during this time?
What to Do During the Two-Week Wait
There are many things within your control during this time. Primarily, you can steer your focus toward self-care and keeping busy. Here are some things you may want to consider trying:
- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Utilize mindfulness practices such as meditation and deep breathing. These strategies can help manage anxiety and keep you grounded.
- Engage in Gentle Activities: Find activities that keep your mind off the waiting game. Examples may include light reading, walking, doing creative projects, or starting a new hobby. These distractions help reduce emotional strain.
- Stay Connected: Support from family or friends is essential during this time. Sharing your feelings with a partner or trusted confidants can reduce emotional isolation. You may also want to consider joining TRIO’s online support groups or speak with one of our fertility counsellors
- Accept Uncertainty: One of the hardest parts is accepting that the outcome is beyond your control. Take each day one at a time and avoid setting specific expectations.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Focus on what you’ve learned and grown during your fertility journey. This can help you foster more compassion for yourself. It can also help prevent negative thought patterns.
- Track Your Symptoms: Consider keeping a journal of any changes you experience. You can share these with your doctor as needed.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Advice: Never replace your doctor’s advice with other recommendations. They know you and your situation the best. Thus, they can give you the most pertinent advice specific to you.
What Not to Do During the Two-Week Wait
In contrast, here are a few things you may want to avoid:
- Don’t Overanalyze Symptoms: It’s easy to become hyper-aware of every bodily sensation. However many symptoms may be related to hormone treatments or regular menstrual cycle changes rather than pregnancy. Avoid constant Googling of potential symptoms.
- Avoid Taking Tests Too Early: Testing too early may produce a false result, which could cause unnecessary stress or disappointment. Waiting for the right time ensures a more accurate result.
- Limit Stressful Situations: Both physical and emotional stress can impact how you feel during this time. So, avoid high-pressure environments or unnecessary stress.
- Avoid Excessive Exercise: Light exercise is recommended during this time. However, strenuous activity may cause unwanted stress on the body. This is particularly true if you have undergone fertility treatments like IVF. It’s always a good idea to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard.
- Avoid Making Big Decisions: Emotions can run high during this time. Thus, it’s better to leave decisions for a time when things are less heightened.
- Try not to Compare: Comparing is easy, but everyone’s fertility journey is unique. Additionally, comparisons often add more unnecessary stress.
What to Eat During Two-Week Wait
You may now wonder, “What should I eat during the two-week wait?”
The key is to stick to nutrient-dense foods. This means opting for whole foods whenever possible. Incorporate fatty fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and more. Some great options include:
- Salmon
- Sweet potatoes
- Berries
- Quinoa
- Chickpeas
- Avocado
- Eggs
- Carrots
- Dark Chocolate (with moderation)
- And more!
On the other hand, limit processed foods and focus on more nourishing meals and snacks. Make meals at home (or batch them and make many all at once for the days to come).
Foods to Avoid During Two-Week Wait
Some foods may not support your desire to conceive. As such, here are some tips to consider:
- Avoid High Caffeine Intake: Caffeine can impact sleep and contribute to increased anxiety.
- Limit Processed Foods: Food containing refined sugars and processed foods can contribute to inflammation. They may also not provide the nutrients necessary for optimal health and hormones.
- Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: These may negatively impact fertility and the chances of implantation.
Exercise During the Two-Week Wait
Exercise can be beneficial during this wait. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Opt for Gentle Movement: Light physical activities like walking or gentle yoga are ideal. These forms of exercise help reduce stress without straining the body.
- Avoid Intense Workouts: Intense workouts should be avoided. They may interfere with implantation and cause increased stress.
- Listen to Your Body: If you feel tired or uncomfortable, it’s essential to rest. Don’t push yourself unnecessarily, and prioritize accordingly.
If you’re curious to learn more, contact a TRIO Care Navigator today. Together, we can help you navigate this time and come up with a fertility plan that’s right for you.
Two-Week Wait FAQ
Can you have sex during the two-week wait?
Individuals who have undergone specific fertility treatments should avoid intercourse during this time. This time of abstinence can support implantation. However, this can vary depending on your specific treatment protocol. For example, with intrauterine insemination (IUI), intercourse may be encouraged during the two-week wait.
Can you drink coffee during the two-week wait?
You can drink coffee. However, it’s best to avoid excessive caffeine intake. This means avoiding over 200 milligrams of coffee (about one cup) per day.
Can you drink alcohol during the two-week wait?
It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol during the two-week wait. This is mainly because it could interfere with implantation and early pregnancy development.
Can I take a bath during the two-week wait?
Luke-warm baths should be okay, but hot tubs or extremely hot baths should be avoided. That said, a warm shower is best. Overheating the body may potentially affect implantation or early fetal development.
Can I go running during the two-week wait?
Light exercise is encouraged to help manage stress and maintain health. However, intense exercise, like running or circuit training, may not be the best. At the same time, this can vary. Consult with your fertility doctor to determine if this applies to you.
