You did it! You’re finally pulling the HCG trigger shot and you are doing your IVF Egg Retrieval! This is an exciting and nerve-wracking time during the IVF process. While I recently had my retrieval (you can read about my experience here!) I wanted to share with you my 5 must-have things for IVF Egg Retrieval! Don’t forget to check out What to Expect During an Egg Retrieval.
Tylenol
When you’re doing IVF or any fertility treatment, they really only allow Tylenol as an over-the-counter medication for pain. Stock up on some extra strength Tylenol for post Egg Retrieval because you will be sore and crampy! Your nurse will let you know how much you’re allowed to take in a 24 hour period.
Gatorade
Gatorade, Pedialyte, or any drink with sodium in it will be good to have on hand. Sodium will help calm the ovaries and prevent OHSS (or it will calm the symptoms of OHSS). I drank a lot of G2 Gatorade because it had less sugar and calories. Plus, drinking lots of fluids will keep you hydrated – which is super important for your general health AND for incoming embaby. If your body is hydrated, that means your uterus is nice and squishy and welcoming for an embryo.
Heating Pad
The heating pad will be your absolute best friend after Egg Retrieval! When I had my egg retrieval done, my abdomen was tight, I was crampy and sore, and felt bloated. The heating pad helped to relieve pain and it’s also relaxing. I was able to sleep better with it.
Salty Foods
Salt will help draw out fluid from the ovaries. You just had surgery… eat those french fries! Find some salty comfort foods to enjoy while watching Netflix.
Face Masks
This was my “must have”. Fertility treatments are stressful and it’s only more stressful after egg retrieval. Playing the waiting game to hear about how many eggs fertilize and how many make it to day 5 can be daunting. Grab some refreshing face masks and relax as much as you can during this time. If you’re having a fresh transfer, it’s super important to not be stressed out so your body can accept the embaby!
Hi …im Portia and i am also going to be in da process of ivf I’m glad to c dat im nt on dis path alone
Never alone! Good luck on your IVF cycle!