Egg retrieval is a precise fertility procedure performed under light sedation or anesthesia to collect mature eggs from the ovaries following hormonal stimulation. While medical preparation involves hormone injections, the patient’s final meal before the procedure is crucial for safety and comfort. Following a specific diet the night before helps ensure the procedure can proceed as scheduled without complication.
Dietary Goals for the Evening Meal
The primary objective of the last meal is to reduce the volume of contents in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting a calm digestive system. This low-residue approach minimizes post-procedure discomfort, such as bloating or nausea, which are common when ovaries are enlarged from stimulation. The meal should consist of easily digestible, simple foods that allow the body to process nutrients quickly and efficiently.
An ideal evening meal should center on lean proteins and simple carbohydrates. Consider sources like plain, baked chicken or fish, which are easily broken down in the stomach. Pair this protein with a simple carbohydrate, such as white rice, refined pasta, or white bread, to stabilize blood sugar levels without introducing excessive fiber.
The goal is to prepare the digestive tract for the upcoming fasting period, not to maximize nutrient intake. Vegetables should be included only if they are thoroughly cooked and low in fiber, such as peeled potatoes or well-steamed carrots, to avoid lingering residue. Choosing warm dishes over raw or cold ones is recommended, as cooked foods require less energy for the body to digest.
Mandatory Restrictions and Foods to Avoid
Starting at least 24 hours before retrieval, certain foods must be eliminated to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal distress and adverse interactions with sedation. High-fat foods, including fried items, rich sauces, and heavy red meats, must be strictly avoided because they significantly delay gastric emptying. Slower digestion increases the chance of nausea during or after the procedure.
High-fiber and gas-producing foods, such as broccoli, beans, cauliflower, and lentils, must also be removed from the diet. Fermentation of these foods leads to uncomfortable bloating and excess gas, which is irritating when the ovaries are swollen. Spicy foods are restricted because they can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of heartburn or acid reflux under sedation.
Alcohol must be avoided completely for a minimum of 24 hours before the procedure, as it interferes with sedative medications. Caffeine intake should also cease the day prior, as it is a stimulant that can affect pre-procedure anxiety levels. Adhering to these restrictions prevents complications that could lead to the cancellation or delay of the procedure.
Understanding the Fasting Window
The most critical instruction is strict adherence to the pre-anesthesia fasting window, a non-negotiable safety protocol. All solid food, including gum and candy, must typically be stopped eight hours before the scheduled procedure time. This extended fast ensures the stomach is completely empty before sedation is administered.
Under anesthesia, natural airway protective reflexes are suppressed, creating a serious risk of pulmonary aspiration if stomach contents are present. Aspiration occurs when contents enter the lungs, which can cause severe injury or be life-threatening. Failure to comply with the solid food cut-off will result in the immediate cancellation of the procedure.
While solid foods have a strict eight-hour cut-off, clear liquids are generally permitted for a shorter duration, often up to two hours before the procedure. Clear liquids are defined as those you can see through, which are easily absorbed and leave no residue in the digestive tract.
Acceptable Clear Liquids
Clear liquids include:
- Plain water
- Apple juice
- White grape juice
- Clear electrolyte drinks
- Plain black coffee or tea without milk or creamer
Avoid any clear liquids containing red or purple dyes, as these colors can be mistaken for blood during the procedure. Electrolyte beverages must also be stopped at the two-hour mark to minimize stomach volume before sedation. Following the exact clear liquid timeline provided by the clinic ensures optimal hydration while maintaining the safety margin required for anesthesia.