Hi, my sister in law is due to start her IVF treatment (ICSI) at the beginning of April. I want to put together a little gift hamper for her. Can anyone suggest some good useful things for me to it into it?
Thanks
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My partner and I did IVF late last year, the most useful practical stuff was: a big water bottle, ice pack for injections (we ended up using a freezable eye mask which was useful as it was flexible), fybrogel laxatives (for post-egg collection constipation), salty snacks (salty stuff is good for post-egg collection), comfy loose PJs. Some people find hot water bottles helpful too, and paracetamol as you can't take ibuprofen during it (I think).
A gift card for Uber eats/deliveroo or one of those frozen meal places would go down well too! It's exhausting at times so having an easy dinner is always a win. Nice bits like chocolate, self care bits, and lil treats are always good too ❤️

Some self care items such as eye masks etc but with natural ingredients, depending on your SIL's preferences maybe a pineapple charm of some sort. (pineapple is the infertility symbol) I got myself some "lucky" socks, some comforting food or faves... Trying to think what else would've been useful lol also want to say how amazing it is that you're doing this for her x

A little pack for transporting injections that came with an ice pack was good for me. A tube of the numbing cream. A nice robe to take to the place - those are all things I bought myself and found useful!
Absolutely nothing for a baby - the fear is too powerful

Maybe a nice nightie - I currently live in nighties as I’m sooo bloated from injections and find having PJ waistbands too painful. I have also just ordered what to expect BEFORE you’re expecting as I always like to have all the info. X

We found an IVF journal was useful to write all about what happened at our appointments/the journey and can now look back 2 years later ❤️

This is so lovely, I had ICSI 5 times and what I found most helpful for myself was a nice robe, slippers and fluffy socks for egg collection and embryo transfer. A balance of indulgent and healthy snacks. Coupons for helping out with the housework/food shopping (I was always told hoovering was a no-no after transfer by the clinic but I was fine to carry my three year old 🤷♀️😂). A hot water bottle might help with soothing. I was always bloated, ovaries usually get to the size of oranges (8-10cm diameter) during stimulation so loose fitting clothes are lovely, even comfy joggers can be uncomfortable. Panty liners - the pessaries are waxy and leak which can ruin underwear and not feel nice.
If she’s a reader, there’s a book called Laughin’ Fertility which gives a positive outlook on infertility (I do have a copy if you’d like it free and posted to you).
I kept all my letters, test results, scans etc in a folder, maybe a diary-style book so she can write her thoughts throughout her journey?