From the Research
To prevent Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) before flying after egg retrieval, it's best to delay air travel for at least 7-10 days following the procedure, as recommended by recent studies 1. If you must fly, stay well-hydrated by drinking 2-3 liters of electrolyte-containing fluids daily, wear compression stockings during the flight, walk around the cabin every hour, and avoid alcohol and caffeine which can worsen dehydration. Taking preventive medications like cabergoline (0.5mg daily for 8 days starting on the day of trigger shot) may help reduce OHSS risk, as suggested by previous research 2. Monitor for warning signs including severe abdominal pain, rapid weight gain (more than 2 pounds per day), severe bloating, difficulty breathing, decreased urination, or nausea/vomiting. These precautions are important because air travel can potentially worsen OHSS symptoms due to cabin pressure changes and immobility, which may increase the risk of blood clots and fluid shifts in an already compromised system, as highlighted in a recent case report 3. Always consult with your fertility specialist before traveling, as they may recommend postponing travel if you're at high risk for or showing early signs of OHSS, as noted in a systematic review of case reports 1.
Some key points to consider:
- GnRH antagonist rescue can be an effective strategy to reduce the risk of OHSS in high responders, as shown in a study published in 2012 4.
- The use of GnRH antagonist starting from the day of pickup may represent a valid strategy for preventing OHSS in women with high-risk profile, as suggested by a literature review 1.
- Measuring serum levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) can be helpful to exclude an inadvertent exogenous administration or a pregnancy in cases of OHSS, as noted in a case report 3.
- Despite the use of GnRH agonist trigger and freeze-all strategy, the risk of early and severe OHSS is not totally cancelled, as highlighted in a systematic review of case reports 1.
It's essential to prioritize the patient's safety and well-being, and to take a cautious approach when it comes to traveling after egg retrieval, especially if there's a high risk of OHSS, as emphasized in a recent study 5.