The 6 questions about beta-waiting after fertility treatment

2 de septiembre de 2024
·
Ana Candel Surís

During beta-waiting, there is a wave of positive and negative emotions that are not easy to manage. By not knowing what will happen and not having control of the situation, uncertainty and fear appear. We answer here the most frequently asked questions about the Beta Waiting.

Why is it called beta waiting?

This expression refers to the period of 10-15 days that goes from the embryo transfer in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle to the day of the pregnancy test (beta-hCG). If the indicated treatment is Artificial Insemination (AI), the beta-waiting period would begin on the day of insemination.

The 6 questions about beta-waiting after fertility treatment

Being able to have prior information before the embryo transfer helps future parents to resolve doubts and have greater control of the situation, minimizing the level of emotional stress.

Am I getting progesterone right?

Progesterone can be administered subcutaneously, vaginally or orally. Subcutaneous progesterone is usually a more viscous fluid, so it is normal to apply more pressure when administering it and notice discomfort during administration, as well as the formation of a possible hematoma.

If progesterone is vaginal or oral, the presentation is in suppositories, both routes being valid. It is recommended to administer progesterone vaginally before orally, to avoid the decrease in its effect when passing through the liver, as well as to minimize symptoms such as nausea, drowsiness and headache.

The suppository is inserted vaginally as deeply as possible with the help of the index finger. The patient will remain lying down for 20-30 minutes for proper absorption, and remains of the capsule (excipient) and oil may escape. If possible, during the administration of vaginal progesterone, the intimate area should remain as dry as possible. To do this, cotton underwear can be used, changing it as many times as necessary.

Can I dye my hair during the beta wait?

Although it has not been proven that they are toxic or cause malformations, it is advisable to avoid hair dyes that contain substances such as ammonia or formalin during beta-waiting, as they can be absorbed by the scalp. Vegetable dyes are advisable and also avoiding hair dyeing during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Is sport good during the beta wait?

It is advisable to exercise moderately in the days after the embryo transfer. We recommend aerobic exercise that does not require great efforts that could be tiring, as well as avoiding lifting weights that causes abdominal tightness.

Should I be aware of the symptoms of beta waiting?

It is not easy not to be aware of the symptoms and signs during the beta waiting period. Therefore, good information about the warning signs and the symptoms that we may have would help us have greater control and knowledge of what is happening to us:

  • Tender or swollen breasts
  • Sleepyness
  • Morning sickness or nausea
  • Fatigue

The 6 questions about beta-waiting after fertility treatment

These symptoms after fertility treatment may be due to the progesterone medication itself or be typical of an initial pregnancy. It is recommended, although difficult to put into practice, to distract yourself and lead a normal life, avoiding doing things that are tiring.

Can you have sexual relations while waiting for beta?

There is no scientific evidence to show that sexual relations after embryo transfer are harmful. We can even say that having sex could be beneficial before embryo implantation. One of the possible reasons is the importance of certain substances in seminal plasma, which could promote maternal immunological tolerance towards embryo implantation.

The 6 questions about beta-waiting after fertility treatment

We must follow the doctor's recommendations and keep in mind that, naturally, couples have sexual relations, without knowing that a pregnancy is underway.

Shall we contact you?

Leave us your contact details and a fertility coordinator will contact you.
exemple@mail.com
IMPORTANT: add the area code (ex. +44)

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