IVF refers to In Vitro Fertilization. It is a process in which fertilisation of the ovum and the sperm occurs outside the body of the female. By stimulating a woman’s ovulatory process, an ovum is obtained. This ovum is fused with a sperm in a laboratory. After two to three days, the fertilised egg is transferred into the female’s body. Sometimes, in cases like surrogacy, where the mother’s uterus is unfit to carry the baby, the fertilised egg is transferred to a different female’s body. The process of IVF is boon for couple dealing with infertility issues. It is a type of assisted reproductive technology.
EARLY SYMPTOMS OF IVF PREGNANCY:
The process of IVF demands a lot of patience and alertness. The whole procedure as well as the wait, is extremely hectic. The approximate wait time before the first signs of pregnancy begin to appear, is around two weeks.
Cramping
Some women might not take it as a good sign as cramping predicts the probability of a period. But mostly, after the IVF, cramping might indicate the implantation of embryo in the wall of uterus. However, if the cramps turn from mild to severe, contact your doctor immediately. It might indicate conditions like ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) or ovarian torsion.
Light Bleeding
When the embryo implants itself in the wall of uterus, blood capillaries in its lining may damage and bleed. This is called spotting or light bleeding. It is quite common and occurs in seven to forty-two percent of the IVF cases. However, if heavy bleeding occurs, contact your doctor immediately.
Missed Period
Whether conception is natural or facilitated by IVF, missed period is the first and foremost sign of pregnancy. This symptom is extremely significant.
Changes in Breasts
One of the most common symptoms of pregnancy, is the change that you might experience in your breasts. Your breasts might appear fuller. They might be tender to touch and you might feel unease or discomfort in your regular bra. The area around the nipples might darken. Moreover, your breasts might feel sore or sensitive to any external touch or stimuli.
Nausea
There are some symptoms that are common, no matter if your conception in natural or facilitated by IVF. One of such symptoms is nausea. You might feel nauseous when you wake up in the, i.e., morning sickness. The nausea might vary from mild to severe, characterised by certain smells, odours, or nothing at all. Usually, this symptom subsides by the fourth month but some women experience it throughout the pregnancy.
Fatigue
Fatigue or tiredness is one of the most common symptoms of pregnancy. One might feel tired even if she has not worked much. This is because of the over-secretion of the hormone, progesterone. Progesterone is released in large quantities which helps the baby grow but slows down the metabolism of the body, thus, making the mother tired. Usually, the mother regains her normal energy around the fourth month. Thus, the first few months of pregnancy are extremely crucial.
