IVF Egg Retrieval: What Your Doctor Hasn’t Told You
You’re probably already aware of the protocol involved during an IVF egg retrieval – you’ll come into the clinic for an outpatient surgical operation that will remove the mature follicles containing your eggs. The procedure is quick and painless, but your doctor probably won’t mention that recovering from the egg retrieval can be uncomfortable, especially if you end up developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) after. Read on to find out how to prepare for your egg retrieval and the days ahead.
Prepare your body, mind, and spirit
Most women, especially those who have never experienced surgery, are nervous about taking anesthesia and any unknown effects the procedure might bring. Try not to spend too much time worrying about it. As surgeries go, this one is very minor and the pain involved is generally minimal.
Make sure you take your multivitamins and eat well before and throughout your entire cycle. Although your doctor will put you on a regimen of antibiotics to prevent infections from setting in, your best defense is still a strong immune system and a well-nourished body. Eating a diet that contains only foods that are low on the glycemic index and drinking three liters of water a day is also known to prevent OHSS and the dehydration that often comes with it. Also, do not neglect having a small serving of protein with most of your meals. And, eating 4-6 smaller meals, rather than 3 large ones, is better for your system.
During the days before the egg retrieval, you might start feeling bloated and uncomfortable. This is because the many mature follicles are making your ovaries swell, causing minor discomfort. Consider taking a day or two before the egg retrieval to rest and relax; your body is under a lot of stress and you need to take this time to calm your mind and spirit. During your days off, pamper yourself by curling up with a good book, going to an acupuncture session, or taking a relaxing walk in a peaceful environment. This will help keep your mind off of your worries and reduce the emotional stress you must be experiencing.
Get you support system ready
Before the egg retrieval begins, you will be given anesthesia so you can sleep throughout the entire procedure. It might take you hours to recover from the sedative effects of the drug, which means you may not be able to perform basic tasks for the rest of the day. Ask your partner to take a leave from work so that you can have a ride to and from the fertility clinic; you certainly won’t be in any shape to drive right after the procedure. It also helps to do your chores in advance, cook the day’s meal ahead of time, or have a friend, family member, or hired help nearby who won’t mind doing small errands for you.
Have fun and relax
In a few days, the retrieved eggs will develop into embryos, and you will be called back into the clinic for the embryo transfer. You’re probably excited and anxious about this, but try not to get carried away by your feelings. Studies show that lower levels of stress can increase implantation success, but do you really need a reason to have fun and relax before the big day? Call up friends you haven’t seen in months, take a relaxing day trip with your partner to a place you both enjoy, or go to a new movie release – whatever it takes to make you feel happy and calm before the last stretch of your cycle.
