Egg retrieval is used during IVF, egg donation, and egg freezing to collect eggs from the ovaries and use them in assisted reproductive procedures. Egg retrieval cost can vary, but should be covered by your insurance if you have insurance that covers IVF.‍

How Egg Retrieval Works

‍Before egg retrieval, the woman will usually receive fertility medications, which stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs than usual. The exact course of medication will depend on whether or not the eggs are to be used in a fresh egg IVF cycle, or to be frozen for later use or donated.

While the woman receives medication, the doctor will monitor the development of egg follicles using blood tests and/or ultrasound. Once the follicles are near maturity, the doctor will give a "trigger" injection to stimulate their development.Then, the egg retrieval procedure can be performed. The patient will receive sedation and anesthesia to keep her comfortable during the procedure. A catheter is threaded through the cervix into the uterus and through the fallopian tubes. Then the doctor retrieves the egg follicles through the catheter one by one. The eggs are taken to the laboratory where they can be used for the intended procedure.In some cases, alternative procedures can be used to access the ovaries if they cannot be reached through the typical procedure. For example, the doctor may make small incisions over the ovaries and collect the eggs in that manner.

Egg Retrieval Cost and Insurance Coverage

Egg retrieval cost varies based on which egg retrieval procedure is used, as well as what medication protocol is used. In addition, since egg retrieval is used along with other fertility procedures rather than on its own, the cost is typically sandwiched into the cost of the full treatment cycle.

In Illinois, the majority of employers are required to provide insurance that includes coverage for IVF. Patients who do not have insurance that covers IVF can purchase IVF insurance. This means that when egg retrieval is used as part of the IVF process, it should be covered by insurance.When eggs are retrieved for use in egg donation or egg freezing, insurance may or may not cover the cost. If insurance does not cover your egg retrieval cost, financing options are available. Dr. Randy Morris would be happy to meet with you about your fertility. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call IVF1 at (630) 357-6540.