Does diarrhea after egg retrieval mean ascites?

Diarrhea generally refers to loose or watery stools. Diarrhea after egg retrieval is usually not related to ascites and may be a normal occurrence, or it could result from poor lifestyle habits, underlying diseases, or other factors.

Egg retrieval is an invasive procedure performed under ultrasound guidance, where eggs are collected and then fertilized with sperm outside the body (in vitro fertilization), before being transferred back into the patient's uterus to achieve pregnancy. Normally, patients may discharge a small amount of ascites after egg retrieval, but diarrhea following the procedure is unrelated to ascites, and the discharged material is not ascitic fluid. Diarrhea after egg retrieval might occur because large doses of gonadotropins used prior to retrieval cause ovarian enlargement and the development of multiple follicles. These medications can increase vascular permeability, allowing fluids to leak into the abdominal cavity, which may lead to diarrhea—a usually temporary and normal side effect. Alternatively, diarrhea could stem from unhealthy habits such as consuming excessive spicy or irritating foods or failing to keep the abdomen warm after the procedure. It might also be caused by medical conditions like intestinal flora imbalance, infectious gastroenteritis, or bacterial dysentery, which require further evaluation and treatment at a hospital.

Patients should stay warm and dress appropriately according to weather changes. They should follow a light diet and avoid overeating.