In vitro fertilization (IVF) egg retrieval is a minor outpatient surgical procedure performed under sedation to collect mature eggs from the ovaries. This procedure follows ovarian stimulation, which temporarily enlarges the ovaries. During retrieval, a fine needle is guided through the vaginal wall using ultrasound to aspirate the fluid-filled follicles containing the eggs. Because the procedure involves anesthesia and a transvaginal puncture, a specific recovery protocol is necessary. This recovery requires temporary adjustments to physical activity and intimate relations to ensure patient safety and optimize the IVF cycle outcome.
Immediate Post-Retrieval Recovery and Symptoms
The first 24 to 48 hours after egg retrieval are dedicated to recovering from anesthesia and managing common physical discomfort. Patients frequently experience grogginess, dizziness, or mild nausea as the effects of the sedation wear off. A responsible adult must drive the patient home and remain with them for the remainder of the day.
The ovaries remain enlarged due to hormonal stimulation, causing symptoms like abdominal bloating, fullness, and mild cramping. This temporary discomfort is similar to a strong menstrual period as the ovaries shrink back to normal size. Light vaginal spotting or bleeding is also expected because the aspiration needle creates small puncture sites. Resting and maintaining good hydration supports the body’s initial healing process.
Timeline for Resuming Intercourse
The standard medical recommendation for resuming intercourse involves waiting one to two weeks following the procedure, or until after the embryo transfer. This abstinence period, often called pelvic rest, is advised due to two primary safety concerns: the risk of infection and the risk of ovarian torsion. The retrieval needle passes through the vagina and cervix, creating a temporary pathway that could allow bacteria to ascend into the pelvis.
Engaging in intercourse too soon increases the potential for introducing foreign bacteria into the upper reproductive tract, which can lead to a pelvic infection. The ovaries also remain substantially enlarged and heavy after retrieval, making them highly mobile and susceptible to twisting. Ovarian torsion is a serious medical emergency where the ovary twists around its ligaments, cutting off its blood supply.
Sudden, jarring movements during sexual activity may trigger this twisting, requiring immediate surgical intervention. The risk of torsion is heightened in patients who develop Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), where the ovaries are excessively swollen. In OHSS cases, abstinence is often lengthened until the ovarian size has fully returned to normal. Patients must follow the specific instructions provided by their fertility clinic regarding the exact timing for resuming sexual activity.
Other Activity Restrictions
The risks associated with the enlarged ovaries and puncture sites necessitate restrictions on other types of physical activity during recovery. To mitigate the risk of ovarian torsion, patients must avoid strenuous exercise, high-impact activities (like running or jumping), and any exercise that involves twisting or jarring the torso. Heavy lifting (more than ten pounds) should also be avoided, as the strain can contribute to the shifting of the enlarged ovaries.
Restrictions are also in place to prevent infection into the vaginal and pelvic areas. Patients should not use tampons for spotting or light bleeding, relying instead on external sanitary pads. Activities that involve submerging the pelvis in water, such as baths, swimming, or using hot tubs, are restricted for at least one week. These restrictions are maintained until the embryo transfer or until a follow-up ultrasound confirms the ovaries have returned to their pre-stimulation size.