After trying all sorts of natural fertility-boosting concoctions for six years, my sister –Sophie- finally agreed to try IVF. She went through the egg stimulation stage successfully but her life became a nightmare after egg retrieval.
She started experiencing pain in her lower abdomen before leaving the recovery room. Her doctor prescribed pain relievers but strangely, the pain persisted for over two months after egg retrieval. While a majority of women recover within two days, people are different with some experiencing post-complications.
Did you also undergo the procedure successfully? Congratulations, you overcame the panic and doubts. Are you struggling with stabbing pain after retrieval weeks later? Discover helpful information I learnt from Sophie’s experience about the causes of pain after egg retrieval and how to curb it.
Possible Causes of Stabbing Pain after Egg Retrieval
There are different reasons why you are feeling stabbing pain after egg retrieval, such include Hyperstimulation ovarian syndrome (OHSS), ovary enlargement, ovarian infections and internal bleeding. Ideally, some degree of pain taking up to 10 days after undergoing the procedure is normal. With minimal pain relieving medication, it clears naturally. Any excruciating pain after the 10th day should be a cause for concern.
What is Egg Retrieval? What is The Process Like?
Also known as Oocyte retrieval, this is a term referring to the second stage in a type of assisted reproductive technology called In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). For those seeking to use IVF in curbing infertility, you’ll undergo a series of medications for egg stimulation before embarking on this second stage.
In this procedure, your doctor gives you an appointment just before ovulation takes place. Egg collection takes 5-15 minutes from start to completion. After anaesthesia administration, he does the following:
- Locates the ovarian follicles using an ultrasound scan
- Inserts a hollow suctioning needle with a catheter into your vag through the uterus.
- Suctioning the follicular fluid with mature eggs into a test tube
- Marking and labelling the specimen appropriately
After your doctor finishes collecting the oocyte, he gives it to an embryologist for fertilization or freezing. While in the recovery room, a nurse will carefully monitor your progress before discharging you.
Why Does it Hurt After Egg Retrieval?
Egg retrieval involves a minor surgical procedure on ovarian follicles, with no incision or stitches. The use of special sedation (MAC-Monitored Anesthesia Care), makes it painless. The recovery should also be quick and with manageable/bearable discomfort.
Why is there pain after egg retrieval? Let’s explore possible reasons:
1. OHSS(Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome)
If your doctor over-stimulates the ovaries using IVF fertility medication, it may put you at risk of OHSS. The condition includes a sharp pain after egg retrieval in addition to other symptoms such as vomiting, bloating and diarrhea. Ovaries swell as fluids build up and sometimes leak, leading to deep pain. According to the Loma Linda university-centre for fertility and IVF, approximately 10% of people undergoing IVF have mild OHSS, with symptoms showing 4-5 days after a woman undergoing
If you suspect OHSS, A ketogenic (Keto) diet full of proteins may help. Talk to a doctor if the symptoms persist.
2. Ovarian cysts
The fertility institute of Hawaii cites ovarian cysts as common in fertility patients specifically, those using IVF. After the removal of mature eggs, the fluid may build up within the ovaries causing cysts. The condition is characterized by pain around the abdomen. Luckily the cysts go away with time, but to avoid them affecting your fertility treatment, seek medical attention early.
3. Enlarged ovaries
As your surgeon works to retrieve eggs, your ovaries enlarge. When trying to shrink into its usual size, you’ll experience shooting pain. The process of going back to normal is gradual and painful. This explains the cramp-like pain in your abdomen.
4. Internal bleeding
There’s a possibility of internal bleeding after undergoing this minor surgery. However, it is a rare occurrence. Research shows that only 1 in 1000 women experience internal bleeding after the procedure. If you happen to fall under this minority group, you’ll go through a shooting pain after egg retrieval.
5. Infection on ovaries and pelvis
Depending on the experience and expertise of your surgeon, you may get an infection in your ovaries and pelvis. In addition to pain, other symptoms of infection include fever and vagin`al discharge. The pain disappears within 2-3 days. If you go through chronic prolonged pain, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
6. Injury to ovaries, blood vessels, bowel and bladder
In some cases, the organs neighboring the ovary may sustain minor to serious injuries leading to pain after egg retrieval. It may take time for you to suspect such injuries, so, I’d advise you to visit a good hospital for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How Can I Know The Number of Eggs Retrieved?
You have a right to information about the whole process, including the number of retrieved oocytes. Ask your surgeon or embryologist if you want to know. Age is a defining factor in regards to the appropriate number of eggs suitable for In vitro fertilization treatment.
How Long Does it Hurt After Egg Retrieval?
Healing is unique in every woman. On average, it takes 7-10 days for the ovaries to return to their normal size. During this recovery period, it may hurt as pain reduces gradually over time. If you also notice excessive bloating and constipation, call your doctor.
Ways of Alleviating the Stabbing Pain After Egg Retrieval
While most women heal fast, others struggle with pain for a longer period. In some cases, it’s just a serious discomfort.
The following are things you can do to soothe the pain away:
- Don’t strain your body, relax, rest and be comfortable
Like any other surgery, your body needs ample rest after egg retrieval. Avoid strenuous activities such as bending or twisting as they could hurt your ovaries, and increase the pain. Postpone your rigorous exercise routine to a later date after you’re fully recovered. Relax and take time to rest. A good movie is helpful during recovery time.
- Only use prescribed pain killers
Pain relievers help in pain management. However, the use of some types like Ibuprofen is highly discouraged. While Tylenol and paracetamol are popular for alleviating pain, talk to your doctor for advice on the most suitable medication.
- Try a heating pad
A heating pad may be a good option to soothe your aching abdomen. The pain feels like cramps women experience during their monthly menstrual period. The pad is also great for relieving pain from sore vagin`al walls and ovaries.
- Hydrate as much as possible
You should expect mild to severe constipation after egg retrieval due to the anaesthesia meds. Take lots of fluids, especially water full of electrolytes. Add some coconut water or electrolyte powder to plain water before drinking to minimize constipation which worsens abdominal pain. There are also various stool softeners in the market to aid in bowel movement.
- Mind your diet
Before and after egg retrieval, a good diet is essential. Bloating and constipation are some of the after-effects of this procedure, and they are painful. Avoid foods that are gassy to curb bloating. Also, foods rich in fats and proteins help the healing ovary.
Further, quit alcohol and caffeinated drinks to avoid dehydration. High protein foods like Keto diets help in managing mild OHSS. Leafy green vegetables, fruits and foods rich in fiber are also great for constipation.
When to See a Doctor About Retrieval Stabbing Pain
You might be thinking, “is pain normal after egg retrieval?” Yes. You’ll experience some mild pain immediately, but with painkillers and rest, it goes away within three or so days.
That said, remember you underwent a surgical procedure which may have post-complications. Any unusual symptoms or pain after 10-15 days isn’t normal.
When is it time to see a doctor?
Consult the doctor if you notice the following:
- Excessive prolonged bloating
- Vomiting
- Excess Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Fatigue and general body weakness
- Chronic pain despite using pain relieving meds
- Trouble eating or drinking
Note: the healing period varies in different women. If you’re suspicious, I recommend talking to a health professional.
Wrapping Up
The In vitro fertilization fertility treatment could be overwhelming, but worth every effort. In Australia alone, IVF Australia recorded a 44.5% success rate among women aged 18-34 years with an 11% miscarriage rate. Since you’ve made it to the second stage involving egg collection, soon you’ll be through with the whole IVF Process. Are you worried about the stabbing pain after egg retrieval?
Normally, you should expect some bearable cramp-like abdominal pain with bloating, constipation, blood spotting and soreness around the vag soon after – due to anesthesia and the surgery itself. The shooting pain may be a result of OHSS, ovary/pelvic infections and enlargement of the ovaries among other causes.
Heating pads, painkillers, resting and hydrating are some ways to soothe the sharp pain after egg retrieval. Consult your doctor to ensure you stay healthy even after egg collection. Follow the instructions and precautions they’ll give you.
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