Exercise before, during, and after egg freezing: what to do and what to avoid

When considering exercise and physical activity in the context of egg freezing, it's important to be mindful of the specific stages of the process and the reasons for exercise restrictions. If you like this article, get personalized support from one of our fertility advisors, the first week is free.

Before Egg Freezing (Stimulation Phase):

1. Low-to-Moderate Intensity Exercise: Engaging in low-to-moderate intensity exercises is generally considered safe during the lead-up to egg freezing, specifically in the phase leading up to hormonal stimulation. Activities like walking, gentle yoga, swimming, and light strength training can be beneficial.

1. Stress Reduction: Moderate exercise can help alleviate stress, promote overall well-being, and potentially have a positive impact on fertility preservation. Reducing stress is especially important during the emotionally and physically demanding stages of egg freezing.
2. Cardiovascular Health: Cardiovascular exercises can contribute to overall cardiovascular health and weight management, which can be relevant for those undergoing fertility preservation.

During Egg Freezing Hormonal Stimulation and a Few Days After Retrieval:

1. Minimize Intense Exercise: Intense exercise is typically not recommended during hormonal stimulation and in the days immediately following egg retrieval. The primary reason for this restriction is the potential risk of ovarian torsion or twisting of the ovaries, which is a rare but serious complication.
2. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): Intense exercise can exacerbate the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, a condition associated with the hormonal stimulation phase of egg freezing. OHSS can lead to abdominal discomfort, bloating, and in severe cases, complications requiring medical intervention.
3. Focus on Gentle Activities: Instead, focus on gentle activities like light walking, restorative yoga, or stretching to promote relaxation and minimize the risk of complications.
4. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Always consult with your healthcare provider or reproductive endocrinologist for personalized guidance on exercise restrictions during the hormonal stimulation phase and egg retrieval. They will consider your specific health and medical circumstances.

In conclusion, low-to-moderate intensity exercise is generally encouraged in the lead-up to and throughout the process of egg freezing to support overall well-being and stress reduction. However, it's crucial to be mindful of the potential risks associated with intense exercise during the hormonal stimulation phase and immediately after egg retrieval. Following the recommendations of your healthcare provider is essential to ensure a safe and successful egg freezing process while maintaining your overall health and fertility preservation goals. If you like this article, get personalized support from one of our fertility advisors, the first week is free.