What symptoms can a patient expect during an IVF program

What symptoms can a patient expect during an IVF program?

The IVF program involves multiple procedures that rely heavily on medications and hormonal injections to stimulate the ovaries, retrieve eggs, and sometimes support early pregnancy. It is normal for the patient to experience a range of physical and psychological symptoms during this period due to the effect of hormones on the body.

• Common symptoms during ovarian stimulation

During this phase, hormonal injections such as FSH, LH, or gonadotropins are used to stimulate egg growth:

- Abdominal bloating or a feeling of fullness: due to enlarged ovaries

- Breast tenderness or pain: due to increased estrogen levels

- Mood swings or emotional instability: common due to stress and anxiety

- Bloating or gas: possible due to increased fluid retention and some medications

- Flu-like symptoms or fatigue: sometimes a result of hormonal changes or daily injections.

• Symptoms after egg retrieval

After the ovulation induction injection and egg retrieval: - Mild to moderate lower abdominal pain: normal due to the laparoscopy or ovarian stimulation

- Bruising at the injection site, especially if subcutaneous needles were used

- Light bleeding or spotting (normal after egg retrieval)

- Mild fatigue or dizziness (due to the anesthesia or the procedure itself)

• Symptoms after embryo transfer

Usually, after embryo transfer, pregnancy-supporting medications such as progesterone are used, so the patient may experience:

- Mild abdominal contractions

- Bloating or gas

- Breast changes

- Mood swings, as anxiety and tension are associated with waiting for the pregnancy test

• Rare complications to be aware of:

- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): This includes severe abdominal bloating, rapid weight gain, shortness of breath, and severe nausea and vomiting. If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor immediately.

- Heavy bleeding or severe pain after egg retrieval (requires urgent medical evaluation).

- Allergic reactions to the injection (rare, including skin rash or severe itching).

• Tips to relieve symptoms:

- Apply warm compresses to your abdomen to relieve contractions.

- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid salty foods to reduce bloating.

- Rest when feeling tired.

- Contact your doctor regularly if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms.

Dr Najeeb Layyous  F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist