IVF GOT to Relax.

  • Post Retrieval.

    You’ll spend a little time in a recovery area while the sedation wears off. You might feel a little groggy, bloated, or crampy, but these symptoms should pass within a few hours. You’ll be able to go home that same day, though you’ll need to rest and avoid strenuous activity.

    Rest up! You did great. Focus on taking it slow. Leave the important decisions to those NOT under anesthesia today.

  • Recovery.

    It’s been quite a journey leading up to this moment. Each person’s recovery, physically and emotionally, is different. Make sure you are taking time for both.

    Give yourself permission to take it easy the rest of the day. A cozy blanket, your favorite comfort movie, and a warm tea (decaf please!) might be just what you need to get through recovery.

  • Post-Op Red Flags.

    First and foremost, refer to the list of concerns you were given by your doctor. This website is not an exhaustive list and does not replace medical care. Always seek professional medical attention when you have a concern.

    Concerns to look out for: fever, excessive bleeding (Saturating a pad within an hour), extreme nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, unusual pelvic discomfort, dark in color and/or painful urination.

Post Retrieval.

Retrievals take an average time of 10-30 minutes. Once the eggs are retrieved, they’ll be sent to the lab where they’ll be assessed and prepared for fertilization. You will have been moved to a recovery bed by the time you come to and may experience fatigue, light bleeding, and discomfort. Once you are alert, most clinics will let you know the number of retrieved eggs.

You’ll spend a little time in a recovery area while the sedation wears off. You might feel a little groggy, bloated, or crampy, but these symptoms should pass within a few hours. You’ll rest for a short time afterward, and once you’re feeling okay, you’ll be able to go home. Rest and avoid strenuous activity. You should have someone with you to drive you home, as you’ll still be feeling the effects of the sedation.

Your doctor should give you a list of dos and don’ts for the recovery period. Post retrieval care instructions may be from 2-4 weeks long.

Rest easy and drink plenty of fluids. Focus on fluids and meals that don’t exasperate bloating. Pay attention to recovery red flags.

What to Expect Physically After Egg Retrieval

Most people experience mild to moderate side effects after the procedure. These can include:

Bloating & Discomfort

It’s totally normal to feel a little bloated, especially if you had several follicles that were stimulated. The ovaries can swell, and some people experience cramping, lower abdominal pain, or a feeling of fullness.

Spotting or Light Bleeding

Some light spotting or bleeding can occur after the procedure, especially in the first 24 hours. This is generally not a cause for concern.

Fatigue

The sedation and the procedure itself can leave you feeling tired afterward. Rest up, drink plenty of fluids, and don’t push yourself too hard.

Recovery.

Rest Up

Give yourself permission to rest. This might be one of the first moments in your IVF journey where you can take a breather, so do it! If you need to nap, lounge on the couch, or just take things slow for a couple of days, that’s totally okay.

Stay Hydrated & Eat Well

Bloating and fatigue can feel worse if you’re not drinking enough water or eating well. Make sure to hydrate, and suggest eating light but nourishing foods. Avoid anything that would causes you bloating.

Listen to Your Body

Everyone’s body reacts differently, so if you’re feeling uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to call your clinic or take things easy for a little while longer. Your body just went through a lot—take your time to recover. And, always, always, ALWAYS call your doctor if you are concerned something may not be right. If it is an emergency, call 911. 

Lean on Your Support System

If you’re feeling emotional, it’s important to talk about it. Whether that means reaching out to your partner, friends, family, or a support group, don’t bottle up your feelings. IVF is tough, and you deserve to feel supported and heard.

Red Flags.

While most people experience just mild discomfort after egg retrieval, there are certain symptoms that warrant immediate attention.

Make sure to call your clinic or seek medical attention as soon as possible if you experience:

  • Severe abdominal pain

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

  • Uncontrolled vomiting or nausea

  • Fever or chills

  • Heavy bleeding (more than just spotting)

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

OHSS is a condition that can occur if your ovaries react too strongly to the fertility medications, causing them to become swollen and painful. Symptoms can include severe bloating, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your fertility clinic immediately—they can provide treatment to help manage OHSS.

Infection

Though rare, there’s always a small risk of infection after any procedure. If you experience fever, chills, or worsening abdominal pain, let your clinic know right away.