Gynecology Aftercare Korea: Recovery After IVF, Laparoscopy & Gynecological Surgery (2026)

These principles apply to most gynecological surgical procedures. Refer to your specific procedure section for additional instructions.

1. A responsible adult must accompany you home after any procedure involving anesthesia or sedation. Arrange for someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours.
2. Rest is important in the first 24-to-48 hours. Gradually increase activity as comfort allows. Short, gentle walks are encouraged from day 1 to support circulation and prevent blood clots.
3. Take all prescribed medications on schedule. Complete the full course of antibiotics. Use pain medication as directed — do not wait until pain becomes severe.
4. No vaginal intercourse, tampons, or douching for the period specified by your doctor — typically 2-to-6 weeks depending on the procedure. Use sanitary pads only for any post-operative bleeding or discharge.
5. Avoid heavy lifting (over 5 kg/10 lbs), strenuous exercise, and abdominal straining for at least 2-to-4 weeks or as directed.
6. Avoid baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas until cleared by your doctor — typically 2-to-4 weeks. Gentle showers are usually permitted 24-to-48 hours after surgery.
7. Avoid alcohol for at least 1-to-2 weeks and while taking any prescribed medications.
8. Some light vaginal bleeding or spotting is normal after most gynecological procedures and may persist for 1-to-2 weeks. Mild cramping similar to menstrual cramps is also expected.
9. Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber to prevent constipation, which can cause straining. Use a stool softener if prescribed. Stay well hydrated.
10. Your menstrual cycle may be irregular for 1-to-2 cycles following a gynecological procedure. This is normal and should self-correct.

1. Mild cramping and light vaginal spotting are normal for 3-to-7 days after hysteroscopy. Use a heating pad on the lower abdomen and take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief as needed.
2. Bloating or gas discomfort may occur if the uterus was distended with fluid during the procedure. This typically resolves within 24-to-48 hours. Walking helps relieve gas.
3. No tampons, vaginal intercourse, or douching for at least 1-to-2 weeks after the procedure (longer if operative hysteroscopy was performed — follow your doctor's specific timeline).
4. You may shower normally starting the day after the procedure. Avoid baths and swimming for at least 1 week.
5. Rest for the remainder of the procedure day. Most patients with diagnostic hysteroscopy return to normal activities within 1-to-2 days. Operative hysteroscopy (polyp removal, fibroid resection, septum correction) may require 2-to-5 days of reduced activity.
6. If tissue was removed for biopsy, results are typically available within 1-to-2 weeks. Your MTK coordinator can assist with receiving and translating pathology results.

1. Shoulder and upper abdominal discomfort is common after laparoscopy — this is caused by residual CO2 gas used to inflate the abdomen during surgery. It is not a sign of complication. Walking and lying on your left side can help gas dissipate, typically within 24-to-72 hours.
2. Keep incision sites clean and dry. Small adhesive strips (Steri-Strips) may cover the incisions — allow them to fall off naturally (typically 7-to-10 days). Do not pull them off.
3. Shower gently after 24-to-48 hours — let water run over incisions without scrubbing. Pat dry gently. Avoid baths, swimming, and hot tubs for at least 2 weeks.
4. Avoid heavy lifting (over 5 kg/10 lbs) and strenuous activity for at least 2-to-4 weeks. If a myomectomy (fibroid removal) was performed, restrictions may extend to 4-to-6 weeks.
5. Mild vaginal spotting or discharge is normal for up to 1-to-2 weeks.
6. Eat lightly for the first 24-to-48 hours. Start with clear liquids and bland foods, then gradually return to your normal diet as nausea subsides and bowel function returns.
7. You may feel more fatigued than expected — laparoscopy is minimally invasive but your body still needs recovery time. Allow yourself adequate rest.
8. No vaginal intercourse for at least 2 weeks (longer for myomectomy — follow your surgeon's instructions).
9. Report any increasing abdominal distension, persistent vomiting, inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement for more than 2-to-3 days, or worsening incision redness/drainage.

1. Recovery time varies significantly depending on the surgical approach. Vaginal and laparoscopic hysterectomy typically allow faster return to activity than open abdominal hysterectomy. Follow your surgeon's specific timeline.
2. No heavy lifting (over 5 kg/10 lbs), vacuuming, or strenuous activity for at least 6 weeks. Lifting too early can strain the vaginal cuff (the sutured area where the cervix was removed) and cause serious complications.
3. No vaginal intercourse, tampons, or douching for at least 6-to-8 weeks — the vaginal cuff requires this time to heal fully. Premature activity can cause the cuff to open (dehiscence), a serious complication.
4. Light vaginal spotting or pinkish-brown discharge is normal for up to 6 weeks. Use pads only — never tampons.
5. Walk daily, gradually increasing distance. Walking is the best activity during recovery — it promotes circulation, prevents blood clots, supports bowel function, and speeds healing.
6. Prevent constipation proactively — use prescribed stool softeners, eat high-fiber foods, and stay hydrated. Straining during bowel movements puts pressure on the surgical site.
7. If your ovaries were removed, you may experience menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes). Discuss hormone replacement therapy options with your gynecologist.
8. Expect emotional fluctuations. Hormonal changes and the psychological impact of hysterectomy are real and valid. Reach out to your care team or MTK coordinator if you need support.
9. Avoid driving until you are off narcotic pain medications and can perform emergency maneuvers — typically 2-to-4 weeks.
10. Plan for 2-to-3 weeks of in-country recovery if traveling to Korea for hysterectomy. Coordinate your follow-up schedule before surgery.

1. After embryo transfer, rest for 1-to-2 hours at the clinic as directed. You do not need strict bedrest after going home — normal, gentle daily activities are fine. Studies show that prolonged bedrest does not improve implantation rates.
2. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and high-impact activities for at least 2 weeks after transfer. Walking and light stretching are acceptable.
3. Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed — progesterone supplementation (vaginal, oral, or injection) is critical to support potential implantation. Do not skip doses or stop early without your doctor's instruction.
4. Avoid sexual intercourse for the period specified by your fertility specialist — typically until pregnancy test results are confirmed (approximately 10-to-14 days after transfer).
5. Avoid hot baths, saunas, hot tubs, and hot yoga — elevated core body temperature may adversely affect implantation and early pregnancy.
6. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and excessive caffeine (limit to one small cup of coffee per day or less).
7. Mild cramping, bloating, and light spotting may occur after embryo transfer. These are common and do not necessarily indicate success or failure of implantation.
8. The pregnancy test (beta-hCG blood test) is typically performed 10-to-14 days after embryo transfer. Do not take home pregnancy tests early — they can give misleading results due to trigger shot hormones.
9. After IUI (intrauterine insemination), you can resume normal activities almost immediately. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-to-48 hours. Mild cramping is normal.
10. Emotional support matters. Fertility treatment is physically and emotionally demanding. Reach out to your partner, support network, or MTK coordinator if you need assistance during the waiting period.
11. If you experience severe abdominal pain, significant bloating, difficulty breathing, or decreased urine output after ovarian stimulation, contact the clinic immediately — these may indicate ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which requires medical attention.

1. Mild to moderate cramping is expected for 1-to-2 days after D&C. Use a heating pad and take prescribed pain medication as needed.
2. Light vaginal bleeding or spotting is normal for up to 1-to-2 weeks. Use sanitary pads only — no tampons for at least 2 weeks.
3. No vaginal intercourse, tampons, or douching for at least 2 weeks to allow the uterine lining to heal and prevent infection.
4. Rest on the day of the procedure. Most patients can return to normal activities within 1-to-2 days, though you may feel fatigued for several days.
5. Shower normally. Avoid baths and swimming for at least 1-to-2 weeks.
6. Your next menstrual period typically arrives 4-to-6 weeks after D&C. The timing may be slightly different from your usual cycle.
7. If tissue was sent for pathological examination, results are typically available within 1-to-2 weeks. Your MTK coordinator can help with receiving and translating results.
8. Contact the clinic if you experience heavy bleeding (soaking more than one pad per hour), fever, severe pain, or foul-smelling discharge.

1. Mild soreness or muscle fatigue in the pelvic region is normal for 24-to-48 hours after pelvic floor therapy sessions, especially after electrical stimulation or biofeedback treatments.
2. Continue practicing Kegel exercises as directed by your therapist between sessions. Consistency is the key to results — improvement in urinary incontinence and pelvic support typically becomes noticeable after 4-to-6 weeks of regular practice.
3. Stay well hydrated. Contrary to common belief, restricting fluids to reduce urinary leakage actually worsens symptoms by concentrating urine and irritating the bladder.
4. Avoid heavy lifting and high-impact exercise (jumping, running) during the treatment period unless cleared by your therapist. These activities increase intra-abdominal pressure and can counteract pelvic floor strengthening.
5. Avoid caffeine and alcohol during the treatment period — both irritate the bladder and can worsen urinary urgency and frequency symptoms.
6. For energy-device-based treatments (such as electromagnetic pelvic floor stimulation): mild tingling, warmth, or muscle contractions during and briefly after treatment are normal. There is typically no downtime — you can return to normal activities immediately.
7. Results from pelvic floor therapy are cumulative. Follow the recommended number and frequency of sessions for optimal outcome.

1. Apply cold compresses to the area for the first 48-to-72 hours: 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. Use a soft cloth or gel pack between the compress and skin — do not apply ice directly. This is the most effective method for controlling swelling and discomfort.
2. Significant swelling and bruising are normal and may appear alarming in the first few days. The area will look much worse before it looks better — this is expected and not a sign of complication. Swelling typically peaks at day 2-to-3 and gradually resolves over 2-to-4 weeks.
3. Keep the area clean and dry. Gently rinse with warm water after using the toilet. Pat dry — do not rub. Use prescribed antibiotic ointment if directed. Avoid scented soaps, wipes, or sprays in the area.
4. Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing (jeans, leggings) for at least 2-to-3 weeks. Going without underwear at home when possible can help airflow and healing.
5. No sexual activity, tampon use, or cycling for at least 6 weeks. These apply pressure or friction to the healing tissue and risk reopening the incision.
6. Avoid sitting for prolonged periods during the first 1-to-2 weeks. When sitting, use a soft cushion or donut pillow to relieve pressure on the surgical area.
7. No baths, swimming, hot tubs, or saunas until fully healed — typically 4-to-6 weeks. Gentle showers are permitted after 24-to-48 hours.
8. Take prescribed pain medication as directed. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen is typically sufficient. Avoid aspirin (increases bleeding risk).
9. Dissolvable sutures typically fall out within 2-to-4 weeks. Do not pull on sutures or attempt to remove them.
10. Sensitivity changes are normal. The area may feel numb, hypersensitive, or have unusual sensations during healing. Normal sensation gradually returns over several weeks to months.
11. The final aesthetic result is not visible until all swelling has resolved — typically 3-to-6 months. Be patient during this period.

1. Rest as much as possible for the first 1-to-2 weeks. Limit walking to short distances. Avoid standing or sitting for extended periods.
2. Apply cold compresses to the perineal area for the first 48-to-72 hours to control swelling and pain.
3. Keep the surgical area clean. Gently rinse with warm water after using the toilet. Pat dry carefully. Use prescribed antibiotic ointment if directed.
4. No vaginal intercourse for at least 6-to-8 weeks — the internal sutures need time to fully dissolve and tissue must regain strength. Resuming too early risks reopening the surgical site.
5. No tampons, douching, or inserting anything into the vagina for at least 6-to-8 weeks. Use sanitary pads only for post-operative bleeding or discharge.
6. Avoid heavy lifting (over 5 kg/10 lbs), straining, and strenuous exercise for at least 4-to-6 weeks. These increase intra-abdominal pressure and stress the surgical area.
7. Prevent constipation proactively — use prescribed stool softeners, eat high-fiber foods, and stay well hydrated. Straining during bowel movements puts direct pressure on the surgical repair.
8. No baths, swimming, or hot tubs until cleared by your surgeon — typically 4-to-6 weeks.
9. Mild to moderate bleeding and discharge are normal for 2-to-4 weeks. The discharge may change color from pink to yellowish-brown — this is part of normal healing.
10. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the perineal area are expected and gradually resolve over 2-to-4 weeks.
11. When you resume intercourse (after clearance from your surgeon), use water-based lubricant and proceed very gently. Some discomfort initially is normal and typically resolves with time.

Applies to laser-based (e.g., MonaLisa Touch, FemiLift) and radiofrequency-based (e.g., Viveve, ThermiVa) non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments

1. Non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation has minimal downtime compared to surgical procedures. Most patients can return to normal daily activities within 24-to-48 hours.
2. Mild discomfort, light spotting, or watery discharge may occur for 1-to-3 days after treatment. These are normal responses as the vaginal tissue heals and regenerates.
3. No vaginal intercourse for at least 48-to-72 hours after treatment — some providers recommend waiting up to 1 week. Follow your doctor's specific instructions.
4. No tampons, douching, or vaginal medications for at least 48-to-72 hours after treatment unless specifically directed by your provider.
5. Avoid baths, swimming, hot tubs, and saunas for 48-to-72 hours after treatment. Gentle showers are fine immediately.
6. Stay well hydrated and maintain good vaginal hygiene with gentle, pH-balanced products only.
7. Results develop gradually over 4-to-6 weeks as collagen remodeling occurs. Most treatment protocols require 2-to-3 sessions spaced 4-to-6 weeks apart for optimal results.
8. Maintenance sessions (typically once per year) may be recommended to sustain results.
9. If you experience persistent pain, heavy bleeding, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, contact the clinic immediately.

1. Heavy vaginal bleeding — soaking more than one full pad per hour for two or more consecutive hours.
2. Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) — may indicate infection.
3. Severe or worsening abdominal or pelvic pain not controlled by prescribed medication.
4. Foul-smelling vaginal discharge — may indicate infection.
5. Difficulty urinating or inability to urinate — may indicate urinary retention.
6. Signs of wound infection (for laparoscopic or abdominal surgery): increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge from incision sites.
7. Persistent nausea or vomiting preventing fluid intake or medication.
8. After IVF: severe bloating, rapid weight gain, decreased urination, or difficulty breathing — may indicate ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
9. Leg pain or swelling, chest pain, or shortness of breath — may indicate blood clot. Call 119 immediately.

Your MTK coordinator can assist with urgent communication between you and your care team in any language, at any time. In a medical emergency in Korea, call 119.