Egg retrieval is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to collect mature eggs from ovarian follicles, typically for in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg freezing. The procedure involves aspirating the fluid containing the eggs through a specialized needle guided by transvaginal ultrasound. Following this outpatient procedure, certain activities are temporarily restricted to ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications. Medical teams consistently advise the complete avoidance of swimming and other forms of water immersion. This precaution relates directly to the temporary changes in the body’s natural defenses that occur during the retrieval process.
Why Swimming Poses an Infection Risk
The primary medical reason for avoiding swimming, hot tubs, and baths is the risk of introducing bacteria into the pelvic cavity, which can lead to infection. During egg retrieval, the physician passes a fine needle through the vaginal wall to reach the ovaries and puncture the follicles. This creates a temporary puncture site in the vaginal tissue that remains a vulnerable pathway for a short time after the procedure. Submerging the body in water, even chlorinated pools, exposes this healing site to potential contaminants. Water sources like lakes, oceans, and hot tubs can harbor microorganisms that might travel up the vagina, increasing the risk of developing a pelvic infection or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
The Post-Retrieval Healing Timeline
The standard recommendation is to avoid all forms of water immersion—including swimming, baths, or hot tubs—until the internal puncture site has fully closed. This allows the vaginal wall to heal completely and minimizes the chance of ascending infection. Clinics typically advise this restriction for a period ranging from 48 hours to a full week following the retrieval. Some medical teams may extend this limitation until the onset of the next menstrual period. Patients must follow the specific guidance provided by their fertility clinic, as individual recovery rates influence the exact recommended timeline. If any signs of complication, such as persistent fever or worsening pelvic pain, occur, a patient should contact their medical team immediately.
Other Essential Physical Activity Restrictions
In addition to avoiding water immersion, other physical activities are restricted post-retrieval due to mechanical risks separate from infection. The hormonal stimulation phase causes the ovaries to become significantly enlarged, and they remain swollen after the eggs are collected. This enlargement makes the ovaries susceptible to ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists around its supporting ligaments, cutting off its own blood supply.
To mitigate the risk of torsion, patients must refrain from high-impact or strenuous exercise. Activities like running, intense aerobics, or movements that involve sudden twisting of the torso should be avoided until the ovaries return to their normal size, which usually occurs after the next menstrual cycle. Heavy lifting (over 10 to 15 pounds) is also restricted because the strain puts mechanical stress on the enlarged ovaries. Gentle activities, such as light walking, are encouraged to promote circulation and aid recovery.
The recovery period also necessitates avoiding anything vaginal, including sexual intercourse and using tampons. Introducing anything into the vagina can irritate the internal healing site and increase the risk of infection. Patients should use external sanitary pads for any spotting or bleeding experienced post-retrieval and maintain these physical limitations until cleared by their fertility specialist.