Continuing the down regulation phase of my IVF journey has been both challenging and eye-opening as I adapt to my body’s changing needs. 

Embracing Exhaustion and Surrendering to Rest

The second ten days on Norethisterone have taught me to be patient and kind to myself. Each day feels like my body is working overtime, and I have been more exhausted than ever. The tiredness comes in waves—bursts of energy followed by overwhelming fatigue. Naps have become my new best friend. I used to struggle with napping, but IVF has turned me into a pro. I've had naps mid-morning, early afternoon, late afternoon, and I always aim for early nights whenever I can. It's amazing how much I’ve come to appreciate the power of a good nap, and I’m grateful for the rest and rejuvenation they provide.

Slowing down and listening to my body has been essential. I’m allowing myself to rest during the day and am embracing the opportunity to practice being kinder to myself.

Protecting My Energy

I’ve noticed an increasing desire to keep myself in a bubble. I'm very aware of my energy levels and feel a need to protect them. Maintaining a sense of calm is crucial for me right now and I am doing everything in my power to ensure that I stay as calm as possible.

I'm grateful that I have scheduled some time away from work, except for a few commitments, which allows me to focus on my well-being.

One Day at a Time

Some negative thoughts have been creeping in, and I know that it's natural for me to feel scared that the process might not work. My mantra has become “one day at a time” and I am breaking the cycle down into each stage rather than seeing it as a whole process which feels too overwhelming for me.

Adapting and Adjusting

The physical changes continue as well. I’ve been waking up in hot sweats, and my sleep has been quite disturbed, adding to the overall exhaustion.

I have adapted my yoga practice by incorporating shorter yoga practices, finding that even 10-15 minutes of movements helps to ground me and provide some relief. I was leaning more to a yin yoga practice which is amazing for me but provides little movement. I don't have the energy for a full vinyasa practice but 10-15 minutes of gentle movement is proving beneficial for me.

Interestingly, my cravings have shifted too. Fruit, which I usually enjoy, is making me feel nauseous, so I’m listening to my body and opting for more savoury foods.

Celebrating Small Milestones

I’ve completed my first course of tablets, and it feels liberating to turn off the alarms that have structured my life for the past 20 days. It’s a small milestone but an important one, signalling that I’m moving forward on this journey.

The next stage is for my body to have a withdrawal bleed. I find that at each stage I have the thought 'what if my body doesn't react how they expect?' but I keep reminding myself that my body knows what to do. 

I feel proud of my body for enduring this phase, adapting, and continuing to move forward. It’s a reminder that this journey is not just about the destination but about recognising each step, challenge, and small victories along the way.

Justine x