Egg retrieval is an important step in IVF and egg-freezing treatment. Those with fewer follicles may worry about retrieving too few eggs, while those with many follicles may be concerned about pain after the procedure. Either way, it is natural to feel anxious or worried. I am Chang Yi-Chun, Head Nurse at Becoming Reproductive Center. Below, I have summarized 10 common questions after egg retrieval and answered them one by one. I hope this information will be helpful to you.
1.What factors increase the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome（OHSS）?
－People with an AMH(Anti-Müllerian Hormone) level of 4 or above, or those with polycystic ovary syndrome, may be more likely to develop ovarian hyperstimulation. The risk may increase after ovarian stimulation medication and egg retrieval. When the follicles are mature and a trigger injection is required, the doctor will choose and adjust the appropriate type and dose of trigger medication according to the individual case, taking into account factors such as the number of mature follicles（15-20 or more）and estrogen concentration(4000pg/mL or above), in order to reduce the risk of excessive stimulation.
2.Is the number of eggs retrieved related to pregnancy success?
－Retrieving a larger number of eggs may bring both happiness and concern. One positive aspect is that there may be more opportunities for pregnancy and more embryos available for cryopreservation. These frozen embryos may later be thawed for transfer, helping increase the cumulative chance of pregnancy. On the other hand, those who retrieve fewer eggs do not need to worry excessively. The medical team will do its very best to culture every precious embryo and help you fulfill your wish of having a child. At Becoming Reproductive Center, there have also been many cases in which only one egg was retrieved, one embryo developed, and a healthy baby was successfully born after transfer. Please feel reassured while waiting for the embryo culture results.
3.What are the common symptoms after egg retrieval surgery?
－Symptoms that can usually be monitored: nausea, vomiting, dizziness after anesthesia, a small amount of bleeding, and mild abdominal bloating or discomfort.
－Symptoms requiring immediate medical attention: severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, severe nausea or vomiting, significantly decreased urine output, or heavy bleeding.
4.What should I eat after egg retrieval surgery?
－If you do not have symptoms of “ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome（OHSS）”: a light diet with vegetables is recommended, along with 1500-2000㏄ of fluids per day. Medications or traditional Chinese herbal medicines that promote blood circulation should be avoided, as they may increase the risk of bleeding.
－If you have symptoms of “ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome（OHSS）”: a diet rich in vegetables and protein（fish, meat, eggs, milk, and beans）is recommended. Reduce salt intake and drink approximately 2000㏄ of fluids per day, including electrolyte-containing beverages（such as sports drinks）. If you are unable to eat enough food, commercially available high-protein drinks may also be used. Medications or traditional Chinese herbal medicines that promote blood circulation should still be avoided.
5.Do I need to finish all oral medications after egg retrieval surgery?
－Egg retrieval is a type of *invasive procedure（a procedure that places some burden on the body）. Postoperative medications may include painkillers, antibiotics, and hemostatic medication. These should generally be taken as prescribed to help prevent infection, control pain, and reduce bleeding. If necessary, medication that lowers prolactin may also be prescribed to help prevent severe “ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome（OHSS）.” Please make sure to take all medications according to your doctor's instructions.
6.How long should I rest after egg retrieval surgery?
－Because each person responds differently to pain and anesthesia, it is recommended to take the day of the procedure off to rest. If you feel well the next day, you may generally resume your usual routine.（Please adjust according to your individual recovery）
7.When will my next period come?
－The timing of the first menstrual period after egg retrieval varies depending on the type and dosage of the trigger injection, but in general, menstruation occurs about 10〜12 days after the procedure.
8.Can I have sexual intercourse or exercise after egg retrieval surgery?
－After egg retrieval, the ovaries may become enlarged and corpus luteum cysts may develop. Sexual intercourse or strenuous exercise during this period may increase the risk of ovarian torsion or corpus luteum rupture. Therefore, it is generally recommended to rest for at least one week and resume these activities according to your doctor's advice and your physical recovery.
9Can I take a bath or swim after egg retrieval surgery?
－Although there is no visible external wound after egg retrieval, small puncture sites remain in the vaginal wall. To help prevent infection, soaking in a bath and swimming should be temporarily avoided.
10.Should I continue taking supplements after egg retrieval surgery?
－Please discuss your egg retrieval condition and results with your attending physician before deciding whether to continue taking supplements.
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