For Egg Donors, Surrogates & Intended Parents
IVF is a journey filled with emotion, hope, and commitment—for everyone involved. Whether you’re donating, carrying, or hoping to welcome a baby, your well-being matters. These self-care tips are here to support you through each step.
🌼 For Egg Donors:
You’re giving a profound gift. Take care of you, too.
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Rest Often:Â Hormonal medications can cause fatigue. Listen to your body.
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Stay Hydrated:Â Water helps reduce bloating and supports hormone balance.
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Eat Nourishing Foods:Â Lean proteins, leafy greens, and healthy fats support your body during stimulation.
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Use a Journal:Â Process emotions, reflect on the experience, or write letters to your future self.
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Lean on Support:Â Talk with someone you trust or join a donor support group.
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Celebrate Yourself: You’re making a life-changing difference. Honor that.
🌸 For Surrogates:
You are doing something extraordinary—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
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Daily Movement:Â Gentle walks or stretching can help with circulation and mood.
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Fuel Your Body:Â Eat balanced meals that support baby and your own strength.
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Mindful Rest: Prioritize sleep and rest without guilt—your body is working overtime.
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Emotional Check-ins:Â You deserve emotional support just as much as physical care. Therapy, support groups, or simple chats with friends can help.
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Celebrate Your Role: You are a bridge to someone’s dream. That’s sacred.
🌟 For Intended Parents:
This path is full of anticipation, hope, and sometimes heartache. Be kind to yourself.
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Name Your Emotions: It’s okay to feel anxious, hopeful, afraid, or overwhelmed—all at once.
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Practice Mindfulness:Â Meditation, breathwork, or quiet time can calm spiraling thoughts.
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Stay Connected: Talk with your partner, therapist, or trusted friend. Don’t isolate.
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Prepare Without Pressure:Â Nesting or planning can be joyful, but let it be flexible.
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Honor the Journey:Â Write letters to your future child, journal about milestones, or create a scrapbook of your path to parenthood.
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Express Gratitude: Whether toward your surrogate or egg donor—kindness and connection go a long way.
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Celebrate Small Wins:Â Every step forward is meaningful.
đź«¶ Universal Tips for All:
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Say No Without Guilt: You don’t owe anyone an explanation.
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Unplug When Needed:Â IVF journeys can feel overwhelming. Step away from forums or social media if they drain you.
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Create a Ritual: A walk, tea, prayer, playlist—anything that grounds you.
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Affirmations Matter:Â Try gentle reminders like:
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“I am doing something meaningful.”
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“I trust my body and this process.”
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“It’s okay to rest.”
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“I am allowed to feel everything.”
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💛 No matter your role, you are a vital part of something beautiful. Be gentle with yourself, honor your needs, and know you’re not alone.