What side effects can I expect and what risks are involved?

The daily blood sampling and hormone injections are usually well tolerated. However, some women can experience local discomfort, redness, or minor bruising at the injection site. The hormone medications can cause side effects including breast tenderness, fluid retention, a bloated feeling, moodiness, and tenderness in the ovaries. These can take up to two weeks after the retrieval to subside.

There are risks to the procedure that are rare and include hyperstimulation syndrome, ovarian torsion (twisting), infection, and bleeding. These risks will be discussed in detail during the initial consultation with the physician.

Our psychological counseling professionals are available at any time during and after the cycle to offer emotional support.