Oocyte cryopreservation, commonly known as egg freezing, is a medical procedure offering a pathway to future reproductive autonomy. This process is complex, centering on the ovarian stimulation phase where injectable hormones encourage multiple eggs to mature simultaneously. Success relies heavily on how well the patient prepares their body and adheres to specific guidelines during this delicate period. Several lifestyle factors and substances can directly interfere with the hormonal medications or introduce unnecessary risks to the developing eggs and the procedure itself. Understanding what to avoid during the cycle is just as important as administering the medications correctly.
Substances to Halt or Limit
Nicotine, whether from traditional cigarettes or vaping products, is strongly linked to diminished ovarian reserve and poorer egg quality outcomes. The chemicals in smoke, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, can accelerate the destruction of eggs and may require a patient to use higher doses of stimulating hormones. Consumption of alcohol should be completely halted during the stimulation phase and retrieval preparation. Even moderate alcohol intake has been associated with less favorable outcomes, including a lower number of eggs retrieved and potential interference with the metabolism of the prescribed fertility hormones. Complete cessation is recommended to maximize the delicate hormonal environment. Limiting caffeine intake is also generally advised, with most clinicians recommending a strict maximum of 200 milligrams per day, roughly equivalent to one small cup of brewed coffee. Excessive caffeine acts as a vasoconstrictor, potentially reducing blood flow to the ovaries, which are actively working to mature the follicles. Avoiding recreational drugs entirely is also non-negotiable due to their unpredictable effects on the body’s systems and interaction with prescription medications.
Medications and Supplements That Interfere
Certain over-the-counter pain relievers and supplements must be discontinued because they pose a direct conflict with the biological process of egg maturation and retrieval. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, should be avoided entirely during the stimulation cycle. These medications function by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which block the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are required for the final step of ovulation: the rupture of the follicle wall to release the egg. If taken near the time of the “trigger shot,” NSAIDs can interfere with this necessary rupture, potentially leading to a lower number of retrievable eggs. For pain relief during the cycle, Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the only generally accepted alternative that does not interfere with the ovulation process.
Supplements and prescription medications that thin the blood must also be stopped prior to the egg retrieval procedure. Retrieval is a transvaginal, needle-guided surgery, and any agent that inhibits clotting increases the risk of excessive bleeding in the pelvic area. Common supplements that must be discontinued approximately one to two weeks before retrieval include:
- High-dose Omega-3 fatty acids
- Fish oil
- Vitamin E
- Ginkgo Biloba
It is important to consult with the fertility specialist about all herbal supplements, as many can mimic or interfere with estrogen and progesterone, disrupting the carefully calibrated hormone levels of the stimulation cycle.
Physical Restrictions During the Cycle
Hormonal medications cause the ovaries to significantly enlarge as they develop multiple fluid-filled follicles. This temporary increase introduces the risk of ovarian torsion, a serious medical complication where the enlarged ovary twists on the ligaments that hold it in place, cutting off its blood supply and requiring emergency surgery. To mitigate this risk, all high-impact and jarring physical activities must be restricted once stimulation begins. Activities such as running, jumping, intense cardio, and abdominal-twisting movements should be replaced with low-impact alternatives like walking, swimming, or gentle yoga. Patients should also avoid lifting heavy objects, typically anything over 10 to 15 pounds, as the strain can contribute to ovarian torsion.
Abstinence from sexual intercourse is necessary during the stimulation phase for two primary reasons. The first is to eliminate the risk of an unintended pregnancy, as the ovaries are producing multiple mature eggs and the patient is highly fertile. The second reason is to prevent ovarian torsion, as the physical movements associated with intercourse can cause the enlarged ovaries to twist. Finally, prolonged exposure to extreme heat, such as in hot tubs, saunas, or very hot baths, should be avoided because elevated core body temperature can negatively impact the quality and development of the eggs.