What should recovery after egg retrieval feel like?
Retrieval was this morning under sedation. I have spotting, bloating and mild pain. When can I work, exercise and have intercourse?
Short answer: Mild pain, spotting and bloating for 24 to 48 hours are common. Rest the day of retrieval, avoid heavy exercise and intercourse until cleared, and seek care for severe pain, fever, heavy bleeding or rapid swelling.
Answer #1
Typical first 48 hours
Anaesthesia wear-off, ovarian punctures and enlarged ovaries explain soreness. Spotting can come from the vaginal needle entry sites. Use only pain medicines your clinic approved. Many people resume desk work the next day if they feel steady; driving the same day after sedation is unsafe.
Dr. Priya Deshmukh, MD, FRM Fertility Specialist. Answered 2026-07-29
Answer #2
Activity and OHSS watch
Avoid high-impact exercise, heavy lifting and intercourse until your clinic advises, often until menses or until freeze-all symptoms settle. High responders should track weight, abdominal girth and urine output for early OHSS. Contact the on-call number rather than waiting for a routine appointment if symptoms escalate.
Dr. Arjun Reddy, MS (OBG), Reproductive Endocrinologist. Answered 2026-07-29
Call your clinic or go to the hospital the same day if you have
- Severe abdominal pain or fainting
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
- Heavy bleeding soaking pads
- Rapid abdominal swelling or vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
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Answers are general education for patients in India, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Best IVF Centers is a fertility matching service, not a clinic or hospital. Always follow your treating doctor's instructions. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital.