Infertility issues can be hard to handle if you don’t have a direction to move into. The IVF treatment is helping people to experience the beauty of parenthood with less complications. In-vitro fertilization brings in a lot of new opportunities and is a much safer process for people longing to conceive. While consulting the best IVF centre in Punjab, you will get to know that the process involves a lot of steps. Even after conceiving via IVF, there can be a couple of questions lingering in your mind related to the pregnancy progression, safety methods, and pregnancy symptoms. Thus, in this article, you will get a week-by-week guidance on IVF pregnancy involving symptoms, safety, and other points. So, keep reading. 

A week-by-week IVF pregnancy journey 

Just like normal pregnancy, there are key milestones involved in IVF pregnancy. It is essential to understand this entire journey week by week:

• The beginning from weeks 1 to 4 

After the embryo transfer, the initial few weeks are highly important. During this time, fertilized eggs implant themselves in the lining of the uterine. During the initial four weeks of the pregnancy, you will be experiencing mild cramping which is similarly experienced in regular pregnancy. Also, there can be light spotting or implantation bleeding. During this time, the pregnancy can be counted from the egg retrieval date and two weeks in addition to the age of the embryo. 

• The embryo formation from weeks 5 to 8 

With the progression in the IVF journey, there is development in the embryo. From week 5 to 8, women will be able to experience symptoms such as breast tenderness, mild nausea, and sometimes even fatigue. Try to take these as positive signs which indicate that progress is happening. Also, during the 6 or 7th week, there might be a need to get your first ultrasound to know a healthy heartbeat. 

• At the beginning of the first trimester from weeks 9 to 12 

By the time you reach your 9th week, the embryo gets transformed and develops into a fetus. During this time, the placenta is responsible for offering nutrients. However, the common symptoms faced during this period can be morning sickness and heightened emotions. During this time, doctors can even recommend getting prenatal tests for the well-being of mother and child. 

• At the beginning of the second trimester from weeks 13 to 16 

During this period, your second trimester begins and the early symptoms of the pregnancy will slowly diminish. From week 13 to 16, there will be a boost of energy and baby bump will start to appear. Thus, inculcating a healthy and balanced diet can prove to be beneficial. Also, mild exercises should be done. 

• The movement of the baby from week 17 to 20 

From the beginning of week 17, you will start to experience your baby’s movement. These movements are considered as ‘quickening’ which are gentle flutters and indicate healthy growth of the baby. However, abdominal discomfort or back pains are common to experience during this phase and are manageable. 

• Viability and preparation from weeks 21 to 24

With the advancement in the pregnancy, there is an enhanced chance of the baby being able to survive outside the womb. The organ of the fetus develops. Due to all of this, women will be able to experience weight gain and certain changes in the skin. This is an apt time to start thinking about childbirth and take parenting lessons.

• At the beginning of the third trimester from weeks 25 to 28

At this stage, you have entered the third trimester. This indicates that you are about to reach your due date. However, during this phase, you can experience breath shortness and abdomen pressure. Getting regular medical checkups and learning more about birth plans is essential at this moment. 

• About to reach the finish line from weeks 29 to 32

Your body will continue to change and there can be symptoms of Braxton hicks contractions. This is an indication that you are being prepared for labor. However, back pain and slight discomfort can be experienced by a woman. 

• The final preparations from weeks 33 to 36

The final preparations involve your baby getting into a head-down position. This is done for the birth preparation and while all of these changes are happening, your belly will get bigger. Plus, the common symptoms can be fatigue and more visits to the bathroom as your bladder is under pressure. 

• Welcoming the baby from week 37 to 40 

After reaching close to your due date, there are a lot of mixed emotions, excitement and nervousness. During this time, the baby is getting settled deeper into the pelvic area. If you have not prepared your birth plan, then this is the best time to ensure that you have all the necessary items packed with you for a hospital visit. 

When is an IVF pregnancy considered safe? 

Every parent is concerned about their pregnancy, especially people who have opted for the IVF route. However, it is after the period of 12 weeks that you can take a sigh of relief. In other words, for around 12 weeks you need to be extra cautious with your IVF pregnancy as per some research. There is less possibility of miscarriage and other problems. However, it is essential to keep in mind that being in regular touch with your doctor is imperative for the safety of mother and child. 

Conclusion 
The IVF process is changing the lives of many infertile couples. The process can be slightly lengthy and requires a lot of patience. But you can experience fruitful results. However, before initiating this process, it is essential to understand the details of IVF costs in Punjab. Also, the above-mentioned IVF pregnancy guidance explained week by week will help you understand many things. However, every pregnancy is unique, and having your healthcare provider by your side is highly essential.