Introduction
In IVF and egg freezing
labs
injections
and visits can make the schedule feel opaque. This guide neutrally maps the basics of follicular/luteal phases
the stimulation-to-retrieval flow
lifestyle care
visit cadence
and FAQs.
1. Basics of Follicular & Luteal Phases
- Follicular phase (Day 1 of menses to ovulation, ~14 days): multiple follicles grow; the lead follicle proceeds to ovulation. Baseline hormones (e.g., E2, FSH) guide when to start stimulation.
- Luteal phase (post-ovulation to next menses, ~14 days): progesterone rises to prepare the endometrium. New stimulation isn’t done; focus shifts to transfer or recovery.
Think: follicular = “grow,” luteal = “prepare to receive.” This two-phase view makes the journey easier to grasp.
2. Timeline (Typical Ranges)
| Step | What Happens | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Intake & Prep | Labs, hormones, ultrasound; planning | ≈ 2–4 weeks |
| Ovarian Stimulation | Self-injections; visits for adjustments | ≈ 10–14 days |
| Egg Retrieval | Transvaginal under anesthesia | Same day (30–60 min) |
| Fertilization/Culture or Freeze | Fertilize; culture to blastocyst; freeze | ≈ 5–6 days |
| Luteal/Recovery | Prepare transfer next cycle; recover | ≈ 2 weeks |
Ranges vary with age, AMH, history, and clinic protocol—treat them as ranges, not promises.
3. Lifestyle Guide During Stimulation (Do/Don’t)
- Diet: balanced with protein/iron/hydration. Limit alcohol; avoid smoking/cannabis. Disclose supplements/meds.
- Exercise: walking/light stretching OK; avoid high-impact/strong core strain.
- Sex: follow clinic guidance; many advise abstaining ~2–3 days pre-retrieval.
- Sleep/Stress: quality sleep supports hormone balance; share visit schedules to ease anxiety.
4. Visit Cadence & Time
Expect ~2–4 visits during stimulation; each ~20–30 minutes (early-morning slots are popular). Doses/schedules adjust by results
clarifying your next step each time.
5. Pre-/Post-Retrieval Care
- Before retrieval: hydrate well; some clinics require fasting from the prior evening for anesthesia safety.
- After retrieval: rest 1–2 days; temporary bloating/spotting is common—contact your clinician if pain is strong. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and sex for ~5 days.
6. Column: Practical Tips for Working Patients
Use early-morning clinics
weekend retrievals
and online counseling to keep work on track. Some employers now offer egg-freezing leave. Planning your month in small
manageable blocks reduces stress.
7. Summary
- Anchor on the two-phase model: grow (follicular) then prepare (luteal).
- One cycle spans roughly a month; stimulation ≈ 10–14 days; retrieval is same-day.
- Treat lifestyle tips and schedules as ranges; your clinician’s instructions come first.