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Egg retrieval is a crucial step in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process. This minor surgical procedure is performed under anesthesia to collect mature eggs from the ovaries, which will later be fertilized in a laboratory setting. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of the egg retrieval process, helping you understand what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

Before the Egg Retrieval

Follicle Stimulation:

Prior to egg retrieval, you will undergo controlled ovarian hyperstimulation to encourage the growth of multiple follicles containing eggs. Your clinical team will closely monitor your progress to ensure optimal follicle size. When most follicles reach 18-22 mm in diameter and your hormone levels are appropriate, a trigger injection (usually hCG or a GnRH agonist) will be administered. This injection induces ovulation and helps with the final maturation of the eggs, preparing them for retrieval.
(Related: Little-Known Truths About the Egg Retrieval Process)

Scheduling:

The timing of your egg retrieval depends on how your body responds to the stimulating medications. Be prepared for the procedure to take place on any day of the week, including weekends, as it must occur when your body is ready and cannot be rescheduled.

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

Your medical team will provide specific instructions about when to arrive for the procedure and when to refrain from eating and drinking, typically starting after midnight on the day before the procedure.

During the Egg Retrieval

Anesthesia:

The egg retrieval is performed under intravenous (IV) sedation administered by an anesthesiologist. This ensures you are relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. You will be asleep but breathing on your own, as it involves a combination of sedatives and pain relievers administered through an IV. It is considered monitored anesthesia care (MAC), which helps you stay comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

Transvaginal Ultrasound-Guided Retrieval:

Using transvaginal ultrasound guidance, your medical team will retrieve the eggs with a thin needle inserted through the upper vaginal wall and into each follicle. The needle is connected to gentle suction, which removes the fluid containing the eggs from the follicles. The eggs are then collected into test tubes for examination.

Embryologist Examination:

An embryologist will immediately examine the collected fluid under a microscope to identify and assess the matured eggs. On average, a single egg is present in 65-85% of optimal follicles. However, some follicles may contain multiple eggs, while others may contain none.
(Related: What is the Egg Retrieval Process Really Like?)

After the Egg Retrieval:

Recovery:

Following the procedure, you will enter a recovery period. The anesthesia will likely make you feel drowsy, but this typically wears off within a few hours. Your medical team will monitor your vital signs and check for any immediate complications, offering pain or anti-nausea medications as needed.

Discharge:

Once you are alert and stable, you will receive discharge instructions, a report on the number of eggs retrieved, prescribed medications, and information about the next steps in your IVF journey. Most patients are able to leave the recovery room within about one hour of the procedure.

Follow-up:

Your clinic will contact you the following day to check on your recovery and discuss the next stages of your IVF treatment. They will also inform you about the fertilization results (if the eggs were successfully fertilized) and the progress of your embryos.

Conclusion:

The egg retrieval process is a significant milestone in your IVF journey. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, you can feel more prepared and confident as you navigate this important step. Remember, your medical team is there to support you every step of the way and help you achieve your dream of building a family. (Related: Choosing to Do an IUI vs IVF)

The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any health-related decisions or implementing any medical information shared here.