Retrieval tomorrow, really nervous. Any advice?

[Anonymous]

First IVF cycle and my egg retrieval is tomorrow. I'm really nervous about it but trying to keep calm. Am taking the day off tomorrow.

Does anyone have any advice for how to get through the day? I'm planning to wear loose sweatpants and sweater plus slip on shoes.

What did you wear? Will I want to watch Netflix all day or sleep? What about food?

I'd appreciate any advice and encouragement! It's been a long journey...

[Anonymous]

I remember being sooooo nervous for mine. I did natural cycle so I wasn’t all bloated, but honestly the meds to make me out of it didn’t even work and it was no big deal. The worry before was way worse than the actual retrieval procedure. Don’t worry. The worst part is the lead up to it. Good luck.

[Anonymous]

You got this. Loose sweatpants and slip on shoes is perfect. One of my ERs I wore some cheesy pineapple socks.

I did 3 ERs and all 3 I was pretty much back to normal by the time I left the clinic. My 3rd ER I had OHSS and I regret not leaving the clinic with a prescription for strong meds in hand, as my husband had to go back later that day to get it.

Pro-tip: start miralax daily, starting today.

[Anonymous]

Highly recommend a heating pad if you don't already have one.

[Anonymous]

The advice on Miralax (or Colace) is key! Definitely make sure you've got that. I did six retrievals and never needed any pain meds after but constipation is real. Honestly, I got to almost look forward to the retrievals. It's a relief to be done with the cycle and get those eggs out. And going under is the best. SG at least has a great anaesthetist. Good luck, I hope you get lots of eggs and ultimately a sticky embryo!

[Anonymous]

Line up some guilty pleasures and junk food.

[Anonymous]

OP here. Thank you so much!

[Anonymous]

OP, how did your retrieval go? Thinking of you today!

[Anonymous]

Fully agree on Miralax/Colace and doing anything you can to clear out before the procedure. The procedure itself was no issue but the constipation which my understanding is a side effect of the anesthesia was no joke. I learned my lesson on transfer number one. My second transfer was easy-peasy and really not a big deal.

[Anonymous]

OP here. Thank you so much 17:30 and everyone else! I think the retrieval went well. I heeded advice re: constipation, wore comfy clothes, and just worked on staying calm.

Everyone at the clinic was kind and put me at ease. Indulged in some good TV and salty chips and snacks afterwards. We'll see how things develop as week goes by. It would be so nice to not have to do another cycle.

Any recommendations for good, not stressful shows?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here. Thank you so much 17:30 and everyone else! I think the retrieval went well. I heeded advice re: constipation, wore comfy clothes, and just worked on staying calm.

Everyone at the clinic was kind and put me at ease. Indulged in some good TV and salty chips and snacks afterwards. We'll see how things develop as week goes by. It would be so nice to not have to do another cycle.

Any recommendations for good, not stressful shows?

Emily in Paris! Cheesy, but stress-free viewing with amazing fashion and beautiful views.

[Anonymous]

Hopefully you went to Shady Grove. The other MD area providers are questionable.