Surviving the Two-Week Wait: Sanity, Self-Care & Surrender

Angela Marshall
6 days ago
3 min read

The dreaded two-week wait.

If you know, you know.

That hollow stretch of time between embryo transfer and pregnancy test. Two weeks that feel like two years. Suspended in a weird limbo of hope, fear, and every emotion in between.

Whether it’s your first IVF cycle, your seventh, or your last—this waiting game can feel like slow torture. You’ve given so much: physically, emotionally, spiritually. Your body has been poked, prodded, scanned, and medicated. You’ve handed over your hopes and dreams in follicle form. And now, you’re expected to just… wait?

It’s no wonder the two-week wait (2WW) can mess with your head.

A couple holds hands warmly. The woman wears a ring, and they sit on a white bed. She wears a white shirt, he wears a dark shirt. Possibly anxious about IVF results.

The Emotional Whiplash of the 2WW

Let’s be real: this part of the fertility journey is not for the faint-hearted. One minute you're hopeful, the next you're spiralling into Google rabbit holes of “early pregnancy symptoms” vs “progesterone side effects.”

It’s a vulnerable time that can rattle even the strongest among us. You might be asking yourself:

Is this cramp a sign?

Should I be resting more?

Is that twinge a good thing or a bad thing?

Am I doing enough—or too much?

And the classic:

How do I “just relax” when everything feels like it’s riding on this moment?

You’re Not Broken. This Process Is Just Really, Really Hard.

Let’s take the pressure off for a second: Your worth is not measured in embryo quality, beta HCG levels or your ability to “stay positive.” IVF is tough, and it can be brutal to your confidence, your body image, even your relationships.

You are doing your best—and that is enough.

Yes, trust your fertility specialist. Yes, science is amazing. But the hardest part of this journey? Trusting yourself. Trusting your body. Holding space for both hope and fear.

Woman in a gray tank top sits curled up on a white bed, looking contemplative. Sunlight streams through a window. She is possibly concerned about IVF results.

Facing Your Shadow Self

During this limbo, old fears tend to rise up. That’s okay. It’s a perfect time to:

Journal your thoughts.
Let the tears out.
Name your fears without judgment.
Talk to someone you trust.
Be kind to your inner critic.

Facing your shadow self isn’t about fixing anything—it’s about acknowledging what’s there, and choosing to care for yourself anyway.

Supportive Tools for the 2WW

So how do you actually cope during this time?

1. Acupuncture: Your Calm Companion

Acupuncture can help ease anxiety, balance hormones, and support implantation. I often recommend sessions:

Around Day 3–5 post-transfer
Midway through your two-week wait
Just before or after your pregnancy test

These are key points in embryo development and nervous system regulation. Let’s tailor it to your cycle and your unique needs.

2. Breathe Your Way Through It

Try this simple breathing exercise anywhere, anytime:

Inhale slowly for 5 counts, expanding your belly
Exhale gently for 5 counts
Repeat for a few minutes to calm your nervous system

Sounds simple—but it works.

3. Gentle Movement

Yes, movement helps, but now is not the time to go all out. Stick to low-impact:

Walks in nature
Gentle Pilates or yin yoga
Stretching
Stationary bike on low resistance

Avoid: intense cardio, hot yoga, saunas, baths, and anything that raises your core temperature or exposes you to infection (like swimming in pools).

4. Mind-Body Connection

Research shows that relaxation techniques and social support can boost IVF success rates. Try:

Meditation apps like Calm, Insight Timer or Headspace
Getting a nurturing massage
Laughing with your favourite people
Watching feel-good shows or listening to a great podcast

5. Vitamin D + Sunshine

Sunshine helps regulate your circadian rhythm, boosts vitamin D (important for fertility!), and lifts your mood. Even just 10 minutes on your balcony can help—yes, even in winter.

Woman looking up in a sunlit forest with a serene expression. Soft, green bokeh background enhances the tranquil mood.

This Is Temporary (Even If It Doesn’t Feel That Way)

The 2WW is tough, but it will end. One way or another, you will walk through this fire and out the other side—stronger, wiser, and more in touch with your own resilience.

So go gently.

Breathe.

Let others hold you when you need it.

And remember: this moment doesn’t define your future.

With love and belief in you,

Angela x

Acupuncturist | Fertility Support | Womb to World

Need Support During Your 2WW?

I’m here for you with acupuncture, emotional support, and space to be exactly where you are. Book in your 2WW Support Session and let’s help your body and mind feel held.

Book a Session with Angela