1. I Waited Until the Timing Was Right. Not Just Medically, but Emotionally
Why Emotional Readiness Mattered as Much as Medical Timing in IVF at 43.
The biggest shift I made was simple, but powerful:
I didn’t squeeze IVF into my life, I built my life around IVF.
During my second experience with IVF at age 43, I chose November for a transfer date intentionally.
A month when I wasn’t traveling.
A season when work felt manageable.
A window where I could fully commit to the three-day rest period following a frozen embryo transfer (FET) without guilt or distraction.
At 43, I understood that my nervous system mattered just as much as my hormone levels.
Rest wasn’t optional, it was part of the plan.
2. I Made a Game-Changing Decision: I Switched Doctors
Switching Doctors Changed Everything in My IVF at Age 43 Journey.
This was the most important decision of the entire process.
Before moving forward with IVF at age 43, I chose to switch physicians to Dr. Andy Huang at Reproductive Partners, a decision influenced by four close friends who had positive outcomes under his care.
Yes, it meant transporting my embryos from my previous clinic.
Yes, it was extra work.
And yes, it was absolutely worth it.
Six months before my planned transfer, Dr. Huang did a full evaluation (it had been three years since my last pregnancy). Everything looked healthy, thank God. Which allowed us to move forward with confidence and intention.
What mattered most to me was this:
He truly listened.
3. Choosing a Less-Medicated, Natural FET, Timed to My Body
Choosing a Natural FET at Age 43 and Letting My Body Lead.
Dr. Huang was fully on board with a less-medicated, natural frozen embryo transfer, timed around my naturally occurring ovulation rather than forcing my body into a calendar.
That meant:
- Fewer medications
- Allowing my cycle to lead
- Supporting my body instead of overriding it
At this stage of IVF at age 43, this approach felt deeply aligned, physically and emotionally. I wasn’t interested in being overmedicated or rushed. I wanted my body to feel calm, supported, and prepared.
That trust between physician and patient, made all the difference for me.lly choreographed. The apprentices hype your child up, call them “Princess,” and treat every detail like a ceremony.
4. I Prioritized Fertility-Supportive Self-Care
Why Self-Care Became Non-Negotiable for Me During IVF at Age 43.
This time around, I focused on supportive care that helped my body feel safe and regulated, not overwhelmed.
What I added during IVF at age 43:
- Acupuncture with a fertility specialist leading up to transfer, on transfer day, and after transfer throughout the first trimester
- Pregnancy-focused chiropractic care to support pelvic alignment and increase blood flow to the uterus
- Ayurvedic massage (my first experience), which I found incredibly grounding and nourishing
These weren’t trends, they were intentional choices to calm my nervous system and support circulation and balance.
5. I Treated the Post-Transfer Window as Sacred
The Power of Intentional Rest After Transfer During IVF at Age 43.
After my transfer, I committed to three full days of intentional rest.
No rushing.
No unnecessary obligations.
No pressure to “power through.”
I focused on:
- Staying warm
- Nourishing soups and broths
- Resting without guilt
- Protecting my energy
I did not follow strict bed rest beyond day one but I slowed everything down and honored what my body needed. I also took 10 days off from working out and only did light walks with my dog for sunshine and movement.
During IVF at age 43, I truly believe rest is medicine.
6. I Supported My Body with Targeted Labs and Supplements
The Targeted Lab Work and Supplements That Supported My IVF at Age 43 Journey.
Before transfer, I made sure my labs were optimized, including:
- Vitamin D
- TSH (thyroid)
- Other key markers
I also incorporated a few supplements as part of my IVF-at-age-43 protocol, including:
- Utrophin
- Wheat germ oil
- Prenatals (I’ve been alternating Perelel and Needed brands)
Nothing extreme, just thoughtful, supportive choices made with intention and guidance.
At 43, I didn’t assume my body would “figure it out.” I gave it the support it deserved.
7. Gratitude, Perspective, and Why I’m Sharing This
Honest reflections, hard-earned perspective, and hope for others walking this path.
This transfer resulted in pregnancy on the first try, and I am overwhelmed with gratitude.
I know this is not everyone’s story.
I know how heavy IVF at age 43 can feel.
And I know how isolating it can be when you’re quietly carrying hope and fear at the same time.
That’s why I’m sharing this openly.
Not to say “do what I did”, but to remind you that:
And advocating for yourself matters more than anything
Timing matters
Feeling heard matters
Rest matters
What’s Next
I’ll continue sharing my IVF journey at age 43, resources, and lessons. Honestly and without sugarcoating, here on the blog and beyond.
If you’re in this season, you’re not alone.
And if you’re searching for hope, I see you.
With so much love and gratitude,
Jo
Questions, Comments?