Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure used in fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg freezing. It involves collecting eggs after a period of ovarian stimulation using hormones. Active individuals often wonder when they can safely return to their exercise routines. The body requires a structured recovery period to manage temporary physical changes following the procedure. Understanding the physiological impact is important for planning a safe transition back to physical activity.
The Immediate Post-Retrieval Phase: Why Exercise Is Restricted
The primary reason for avoiding exercise immediately after egg retrieval is the temporary enlargement of the ovaries. Hormone stimulation causes the ovaries to swell significantly, often growing from two centimeters to five centimeters or more. This increased size makes the ovaries susceptible to ovarian torsion. Torsion occurs when the enlarged ovary twists around its blood supply ligament, cutting off blood flow, which is a medical emergency.
Any sudden, jarring, or twisting movement increases the risk of torsion. Movement should be restricted to gentle, non-strenuous activity in the first 24 to 48 hours following the procedure. Avoid lifting anything heavier than five to ten pounds, as abdominal strain places undue pressure on the pelvis.
Rest is also necessary to manage the risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), which occurs when the body overreacts to fertility medications. Light walking is encouraged to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. However, intense exercise can exacerbate OHSS symptoms, such as abdominal bloating and discomfort. The initial days must be dedicated to rest, allowing the ovaries to begin shrinking and post-operative tenderness to subside.
Gradual Reintroduction: When Light Activity Is Safe
The transition from strict rest to light activity typically begins between two to five days post-retrieval, provided the individual is feeling symptom-free. Before attempting any light exercise, there should be a noticeable reduction in bloating, pain, and abdominal discomfort. The goal during this phase is to gently reintroduce movement without stressing the still-enlarged ovaries.
Safe activities include slow walking, which helps maintain circulation without causing jarring movements. Gentle stretching, such as restorative yoga poses that do not involve deep twists or core engagement, is also acceptable. Low-impact options like stationary cycling at a very low resistance and slow pace may also be tolerated.
It is important to approach this phase with caution and listen to the body’s signals. Any sharp pain, increased cramping, or sudden dizziness indicates that the activity should be stopped immediately. The body is still recovering and requires low-impact movement to facilitate healing, not to rebuild fitness.
Resuming Full Strenuous Activity
The definitive timeline for resuming full, strenuous exercise is generally restricted for one to two weeks following the egg retrieval, or until the start of the next menstrual period. Menstruation is often viewed as a physiological marker that the ovaries have returned to their approximate pre-stimulation size. Until this point, high-impact activities must be avoided due to the lingering risk of ovarian torsion.
Strenuous exercise includes any movement that causes bouncing, rapid changes in direction, or significant abdominal strain. Deep core work, such as planks, crunches, and intense Pilates, is also restricted as it places direct pressure on the lower abdomen. Specific examples to avoid are:
Activities to Avoid
- Running
- Jumping
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Heavy weightlifting
The decision to return to a full pre-retrieval routine should be confirmed by the fertility clinic. A follow-up ultrasound may be used to confirm that the ovarian size has normalized before clearance is given for vigorous activity. If the egg retrieval is followed by a fresh embryo transfer, exercise guidelines will change, as intense activity is often discouraged during the two-week wait period to promote implantation.