After starting the ovulation stimulation cycle, many women wonder, "Can I still exercise?" or "Should I rest completely?" The answer is-you can exercise, but you need to do it wisely. This article provides guidelines and a list of safe exercises to help you find a balance between preserving your eggs and ensuring safety.

Why Is Exercise Cautionful During Ovulation Stimulation?

Ovulation-stimulating medications cause multiple follicles to develop simultaneously, increasing the size and tension of the ovaries. If strenuous exercise or abdominal pressure is exerted during this period, it may increase the risk of ovarian torsion or corpus luteum rupture. Therefore, the key principles for exercise are: low intensity, no abdominal pressure, avoid collisions.

Recommended Exercises (Safe List)

• Walking: 20–30 minutes per day, this is the safest option.
• Moderate yoga/stretching: Avoid poses that involve abdominal compression.
• Low-intensity cycling: Short periods of low resistance exercise.
• Deep breathing/meditation: Helps calm emotions and relax the pelvic area.

Unsuitable Exercises (Prohibited List)

• High-impact aerobic activities, such as running, jumping rope, or HIIT.
• Abdominal-pressing exercises, such as sit-ups or planks.
• Sports and competitive activities (basketball, badminton), as they can cause collisions.
• Swimming (especially in the middle and after egg retrieval, to prevent infections; follow medical advice).

Adjustments Before and After Egg Retrieval

• Before egg retrieval: Maintain low-intensity exercise; avoid strenuous activity in the last few days.
• After egg retrieval: It's recommended to rest for 1–2 days, then gradually resume walking. Avoid any abdominal pressure or large movements until medical clearance.

Two Signs That Indicate Stopping Exercise

If you experience severe lower abdominal pain, significant bloating, or dizziness while exercising, stop immediately and consult a doctor. Your body's signals should be given priority over any guidelines.

Reminders from Leilawa

Exercise is a supplement to the treatment plan. Any changes to your exercise routine during ovulation stimulation should be based on your doctor's advice. Different treatment plans and ovarian responses may require different medical recommendations.