Tanishaa Mukerji recently spoke about her drastic weight loss for the 2005 film, Neal ‘n’ Nikki. During the same conversation, Mukerji also shared why she opted for the medical procedure that involves extracting, freezing, and storing a woman’s eggs for future pregnancy. “Initially, when I went for egg freezing, I was in a very low phase. Society makes you feel old and all. A lot of people told me that it is very painful, it’s very difficult, but my doctor explained everything to me,” the 46-year-old told Hauterrfly.
She went on to detail the procedure. “They inject with progesterone. The injections are not painful because you are numb in that area in the stomach. It’s a very simple process. For 5-6 days, you have to take those injections every day. Then, on the 6th day or so, you are ready for the extraction for which you will be put on anesthesia. Literally, it was a half-hour process for me. I had not even realised that they had extracted the eggs. It was so simple and easy,” said Mukerji.
She added that you do “put on weight because you are injecting hormones into the body.” “Then there is a process to remove the injected hormones,” continued Mukerji.
Weight gain can happen (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
But what is the relationship between weight gain and hormonal injections?
Egg freezing typically involves hormone injections and an egg retrieval procedure, so physical and emotional readiness is key. Dr Madhulika Singh, senior consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Child, Pune, emphasised that egg freezing does not involve progesterone. “Egg freezing procedure involves hormonal injections to stimulate the ovaries,” said Dr Singh.
According to Dr Singh, women may gain weight because of water retention and bloating. “Many women will also experience appetite changes or fluid retention. However, these issues subside in a day or two after the procedure. Women should not avoid opting for this procedure if the expert recommends it for the fear of gaining weight,” said Dr Singh.
How can the effect of injected hormones be removed after egg freezing?
Drink enough water to ensure proper hydration. “Doing so can flush out excess hormones,” said Dr Singh.
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Moreover, women can eat a nutritious diet consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, and lentils to support liver function and hormone detoxification, added Dr Singh.
“Light physical activity, such as walking or yoga, can help reduce bloating and improve circulation, and women will also be able to maintain an optimum weight,” said Dr Singh.
Additionally, a good night’s sleep for at least eight hours and stress management through yoga and meditation can help balance hormones. “Remember, women tend to return to their normal hormonal state within a menstrual cycle or two,” said Dr Singh.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
