going through ivf and a sahm

[cincynana]

Hi everyone! I'm getting my list of questions together for my ivf consult appt next month. Even though I know my RE will spend lots of time with me and answer my questions, he has never gone through ivf while being a sahm to a 3yo, so I thought I would ask some questions here.

I'm just wondering what to expect after er and et. My dh has a hard time taking off too much time from work, so should I try to get someone to help me out at home during that week, or should I be ok? I wasn't sure how much pain or disomfort is involved with both procedures. I also don't know if he requires bedrest, but I don't think he does.

TIA and I appreaciate any advice/insights. I'm just trying to be as organized and practical as I can

[hlkm2e]

The day of and the day after my retrievals (I've done it 3x) I was sore. Not so sore that I couldn't sleep, but sore enough that all i wanted to do was lay in bed. Not sharp pain, but just soreness. It was virtually gone after 48 hours. You definitely need someone to take care of your dc. You won't be able to pick them up for sure.

As far as the transfer, you won't feel anything. It is painless and has no pain afterwards, but you will be on bedrest for 2-4 days. You could physically take care of them, but you won't be "allowed."

[JunipersMom]

For retrieval you'll be medicated - so they wont let you leave on your own.. so someone will have to help you out with AT LEAST the travel involved so you should probably get them to stay for the day to play with your oldest. After transfer me and my 2 year old watched way too much tv and played with toys I could reach around the couch. You could do it - but I wouldn't think it would be worth the risk after all the shots and stuff you go through to get to that point... at least for me.

[Barefoot Farmer]

Agreeing with pp. After my retrieval, I rested in bed for at least 1 day (DH was able to take time off) and after transfer, I was put on minimal activity for 24hours (I read a book in bed). DD could come into the room and snuggle and read books and be with mama, and also run around and be a 3 yr old with DH or my friend who also cares for you. Best of luck to you and your family.

[cincynana]

Thanks for all of the replies! I'm trying to be prepared for everything and anything :