While every pregnancy seems to be surrounded by countless old wives’ tales and superstitions, the IVF process and surrogacy seem to have their own set of luck-inducing rituals. Most of these good-luck strategies surround Transfer Day.
The embryo transfer is an exciting milestone in the surrogacy process. The success of implantation is largely based on the protocol followed by the fertility clinic and the quality of the embryos, but some fun transfer day traditions can help ease some of the nervousness everyone is likely to feel. Some of these were started by intended parents within the infertility community, and some within the surrogacy world.
Lucky Socks
During the transfer procedure, socks are often the only piece of her own clothing that a woman can wear, so why not make them lucky?! Additionally, an old wives’ tale says that warm feet equal a warm uterus – a comfy place for the embryo to settle!
Pineapple
Pineapples are a symbol of unity and strength for many in the infertility community. Additionally, the chemical bromelain, which found in the core and surrounding fruit of the pineapple, has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Some think this may assist in implantation. As a result, many surrogates eat pineapple in the days leading up to embryo transfer.
Green
The color green is often used to represent fertility. Many surrogates and intended parents use this color on their shirts, nails, or socks to stir up some luck on transfer day.
Lucky Transfer Shirts
Lucky Transfer Shirt: A transfer shirt is another chance to incorporate a symbol of luck, such as the color green or a pineapple. It also offers an opportunity for intended parents and surrogates to feel connected during this unique process, with coordinating shirts.
French Fries
Many surrogates eat french fries after the embryo transfer. McDonald’s fries are especially popular for this tradition. The connection between fertility and french fries started after egg retrievals, when doctors recommended eating salty foods to absorb extra fluid following the procedure. There isn’t any direct connection to transfer day, but who turns down the chance to eat french fries?
Sticky Thoughts, Positive Vibes, and Baby Dust
These phrases are all IVF specific ways of saying, “Good luck!” Sticky thoughts to help the embryo stick, positive vibes to hope for a positive pregnancy test, and baby dust to help make baby dreams come true. Having a positive attitude and the support of family and friends is never a bad thing!
Laughing after Transfer
A 2011 study found that a medical clowning encounter soon after an embryo transfer lead to higher rates of successful implantation. The connection may lie in the role that laughter can play in stress reduction. We know not everyone is a fan of clowns, but surrogates can make themselves laugh by surrounding themselves with funny friends or family members, watching a comedy movie, or listening to their favorite funny podcast.
While there will always be skeptics who doubt the impact of good luck charms, we think that anything that can be done to help surrogates and intended parents have a positive attitude during the process is a good thing. Did we miss any of our favorites? Let us know!