Let's chat about exercise during your egg freezing cycle! If you are considering freezing your eggs, it's important to know that the process can be physically and emotionally demanding. While exercise can be beneficial for overall health and well-being, it's important to take precautions during an egg freezing cycle to ensure that your body is kept safe and that you are setting yourself up for the best possible outcome.
Here are the most common exercise questions asked by clients preparing for an egg freezing cycle:
When can I exercise during my egg freezing cycle, and what kinds of exercises are permitted?
Low impact exercising (like walking) is usually permitted during egg stimulation cycles. The typical "rules of thumb" are as follows: NO high impact exercises at all during your cycle. NO yoga (especially inversions and core twisting stretches) at all during your cycle. NO increasing your heart rate significantly after your stimulation medications have started (medications like Gonal-F, Follistim and Menopur) Most doctors will be okay with walking for exercise as long as you're keeping it within reason. This isn't a time to push yourself physically and increase your heart rate significantly.
Why are these rules so strict? What are the risks of "overdoing" it?
The reason you are advised to take it easy during your cycle is due to the risk of ovarian torsion. Let's break this down: When you start taking your egg stimulation medications (Gonal-F, Follistim & Menopur), your ovaries are a lot larger due to inflammation. Engaging in high impact exercises or yoga increases your chances of ovarian torsion. This happens when your ovaries twist and then ovarian blood supply is cut off. This is a medical emergency. It requires surgery to correct, and would likely impact your fertility treatment cycle. Symptoms of ovarian torsion: Sudden and severe abdominal pain, nausea & vomiting.
It's important to talk to your clinic about your situation SPECIFICALLY. Don't push yourself physically during your egg stimulation cycle - TAKE IT EASY! Ovarian torsion is rare, serious and treatable. Call your clinic immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of OT.
Are you looking for more support during your egg freezing journey? I'd love to help! Visit www.fertilitytreatmentsupport.com for more information.
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