Advice after egg cell puncture

On the day after egg cell puncture, we ask you to telephone the Andrology and Reproductive Biology Laboratory (ARBL) on 021/ 314 31 61 between 9.00 and 10.00

The team of embryologists can tell you the number of egg cells which have been fertilised as well as the procedure for you to have embryo transfer.

You should start taking the progesterone indicated by your doctor on the morning after egg cell puncture.

If it was decided to freeze all your embryos, we will suggest that you take progesterone for a period of 10 days.

It is possible that you may present abdominal pain during the days following egg cell puncture. If necessary, you can take paracetamol (maximum 4 x 1 g/day). In contrast, anti-inflammatories (e.g. ibuprofen) are contra-indicated.

With regard to any bleeding, do not worry. It is normal to have slight bleeding from the vagina due to insertion of the needle through the vaginal wall during the puncture. Due to the risk of infection, it is important, during the days following puncture, not to use tampons but sanitary towels instead. It is also important to avoid baths, swimming pools, spas and saunas.

Due to the small risk of spontaneous ovulation at the time of egg cell puncture, we advise you to use contraception during sex.

Because of the general anaesthesia you will have had, it is important to be accompanied by an adult, not to drive, and to abstain from alcohol during the 24 hours following egg cell puncture.

You can return to work when you feel able to do so. However, you should not work on the day of the puncture and, if necessary, you will be given a sick note.

Intensive exercise should be avoided but active movement (walking) is advisable.

It is also important to keep well hydrated (about two litres of water per day).

We are aware that these infertility treatments can be particularly stressful. May we remind you that our psychological counselling team is available on 021/ 314 32 76.