How long after gallbladder surgery can one undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF)?
Oct 09, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
Patients should rest for 2–3 months after cholecystectomy before undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), otherwise it may adversely affect both the patient's health and embryonic development, potentially causing abdominal pain, acute cholecystitis attacks, insufficient blood supply to the fetus, or embryonic arrest. Patients are advised to have regular follow-up examinations after surgery. Additionally, they should focus on nutritional support, maintain a light diet, and avoid consuming overly spicy or irritating foods.
Generally, it is recommended to rest for 2–3 months after cholecystectomy before undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). The detailed explanation is as follows:
Cholecystectomy involves administering general anesthesia to the patient, followed by making three small incisions in the abdominal cavity—around the umbilicus, right upper abdomen, and below the xiphoid process. Surgical instruments are inserted into the inflated abdominal cavity to expose internal organs. The gallbladder triangle is then fully dissected and the cystic artery ligated. For women who have undergone this procedure, it is typically advised to allow the body 2–3 months of recovery time before attempting IVF. Otherwise, there may be adverse effects on both the patient's health and embryonic development, such as abdominal pain, acute cholecystitis, insufficient blood supply to the fetus, or embryonic arrest.
If a patient plans to undergo IVF after an acute surgical procedure, regular follow-up examinations post-surgery are recommended. Additionally, patients should focus on nutritional support, maintain a light diet, avoid overly spicy or irritating foods, and consume more protein- and vitamin-rich foods to promote recovery. Should any other discomfort or symptoms arise, prompt medical attention is advised.
