IVF Preparation: A Comprehensive Guide to Getting Ready

Trying in-vitro fertilization (IVF) is an exciting venture. Knowing what to expect in advance can help you be prepared and relieve a lot of stress.

Things You'll Need

• A datebook

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Instructions

• 1

  The IVF process requires tremendous commitment because you will have numerous appointments for blood draws and you will also have to discipline yourself with a routine for the at-home injections. So, the most important thing you can do to prepare is to keep a clear schedule for a couple of months. Don't plan anything that requires you to be away from home and try to keep your life as event-free as possible.

• 2

  Have a support system in place. This may be a husband, sister, friend, therapist, or someone else who will be there for you. You may not need this person but it's helpful to share with someone what you are going through and perhaps have someone to help you with appointments or injections.

• 3

  Keep a date book with you at all times. IVF is a very time-sensitive process and you will constantly need to record dates and times for procedures, routine appointments, and self-administered injections.

• 4

  Consider setting a cell phone alarm to remind you what time to give yourself the injections. At times, it may be two to three times per day and it's easy to forget if you are at work or in the middle of a project.

• 5

  Once you are in the stage where you are ordering your medications on a regular basis, piecemeal them rather than order them all at once. This can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars because if your doctor changes your medications mid-cycle or changes the dosage, you could be stuck with meds you will not be using, and the pharmacy will not take them back.

• 6

  Consider joining an online or live support group for those going through IVF. Many of you will have the same questions and issues and it's a great feeling to share experiences together.

• 7

  If you believe you may have coverage for all or even part of the IVF process, make sure you have all the paper work in order before starting anything. Be perfectly clear on what, if anything, is covered so you'll know in advance what you need to pay for out of pocket.