Recovery After Egg Retrieval: What to Expect and How to Expedite Healing

Egg retrieval is an essential step in in vitro fertilization (IVF) and egg freezing, and is a minimally invasive procedure that involves collecting mature eggs from the ovaries using a thin needle under ultrasound guidance. While it’s typically straightforward, recovery after egg retrieval can vary for each person and is largely dependent upon the number of mature follicles you had at the time of retrieval. 

Knowing what to expect during the recovery process, how to manage post-procedure symptoms, and what to watch out for in rare complications is crucial for ensuring a smooth recovery.

Common Symptoms After Egg Retrieval

The egg retrieval process itself takes around 20-30 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia. Post-procedure symptoms often stem from the body's response to stimulation medications and the egg retrieval process. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Mild abdominal pain or cramping: Discomfort in the lower abdomen is common and is due to the ovaries being swollen and tender from stimulation medications. The needle aspiration can also leave some residual soreness.
• Bloating: Due to the enlarged ovaries, bloating is a frequent symptom that can persist for several days post-retrieval.
• Light vaginal spotting or bleeding: The needle used during retrieval passes through the vaginal wall, which may cause light spotting for a day or two after the procedure.
• Fatigue: Sedation and the overall stress on the body from hormone stimulation may leave you feeling fatigued for a few days.
• Mild nausea or dizziness: Some individuals experience nausea or dizziness, often due to the anesthesia used during the procedure.

These symptoms typically subside within 3-5 days. However, each individual’s recovery is unique, and some may experience longer-lasting discomfort. You should expect to feel back to normal by the end of your next period, which usually begins 7-10 days after retrieval. You should note that the period following your egg retrieval is usually heavier than normal!

Throughout your egg freezing cycle and following your retrieval, you will have access to your Spring Fertility care team through the Salve app, so you should ask your team about any symptoms you have or should expect during or after the cycle. 

Tips for Expediting Recovery

The recovery process after egg retrieval is usually uncomplicated, but there are several steps you can take to help expedite the healing process and reduce discomfort:

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is also vital. Hydration helps reduce bloating and may lower the risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Electrolyte-rich drinks such as coconut water or sports drinks can also aid in replenishing lost fluids and maintaining proper hydration, and the sodium in those drinks can help pull excess fluid from the ovaries.
• Manage Pain and Discomfort: For mild pain or cramping, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help. However, avoid using NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or aspirin) without consulting your doctor, as they can affect blood flow to the ovaries. Applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen can also provide relief from cramping and discomfort.
• Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eating light, easy-to-digest meals can help manage nausea and bloating. Incorporating high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce constipation, which some individuals experience after egg retrieval due to the effects of anesthesia and hormonal changes
• Wear Loose Clothing: Swelling and bloating can make tight clothing uncomfortable, so it's best to wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid adding pressure to your abdomen.
• Take it Easy: After egg retrieval, it's essential to give your body the rest it needs to recover. While most individuals can resume light activities within a day or two (most only take off from work the day of their retrieval), it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least a week. Overexertion can increase discomfort and slow down healing, and you want to avoid any pelvic twisting until your bloating has subsided and your ovaries have returned to their normal size to reduce the risk of ovarian torsion.

What to Look Out For: Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

One of the more serious, though rare, complications after egg retrieval is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). OHSS occurs when the ovaries become overstimulated from fertility medications, causing them to swell and leak fluid into the abdomen. It can range from mild to severe, and while mild cases usually resolve on their own, severe OHSS requires medical intervention. 

Symptoms of OHSS:

• Severe bloating or abdominal pain: While some bloating is expected, extreme or rapidly worsening bloating accompanied by intense pain could indicate OHSS.
• Rapid weight gain: Gaining more than 2-3 pounds in a day due to fluid retention is a red flag for OHSS.
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea: Gastrointestinal symptoms, especially if accompanied by abdominal swelling, can indicate the presence of OHSS.
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: This can happen if fluid accumulates around the lungs, a serious complication requiring urgent medical attention.
• Decreased urine output: A sign of fluid imbalance, which can happen in severe OHSS.
• Tender or enlarged ovaries: If you feel extreme discomfort or notice swelling in the lower abdomen beyond what was expected, contact your doctor.

OHSS typically occurs a few days after egg retrieval. In mild cases, symptoms improve with increased fluid intake and rest, but severe cases may require hospitalization to manage fluid balance and prevent complications.

Preventing OHSS:

Patients with high ovarian reserves are most at risk for developing OHSS, and their doctors and care team will take preventative measures to avoid any OHSS symptoms post-retrieval.

While the risk of OHSS can’t be entirely eliminated, there are several strategies fertility specialists use to reduce its occurrence:

• Adjusting medication doses: Lowering the dose of stimulating medications or using "antagonist" protocols can help prevent overstimulation.
• Trigger shots: Instead of traditional HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) triggers, using medications like GnRH agonists may reduce the likelihood of developing OHSS.
• Monitoring: Regular ultrasound and blood work during stimulation cycles help doctors closely monitor ovarian response and adjust treatment if necessary.

When to Call Your Doctor

• While most symptoms after egg retrieval are mild and resolve on their own, it’s important to know when to seek medical attention. Contact your doctor if you experience:
• Severe or increasing abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
• Rapid weight gain (over 2-3 pounds in 24 hours)
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Decreased urine output

Recovery after egg retrieval is typically straightforward, with most individuals experiencing mild discomfort, bloating, and fatigue. By resting, staying hydrated, and taking steps to manage pain and discomfort, you can help expedite the recovery process. With proper care and awareness, you can navigate the post-egg retrieval phase with confidence and ease.