Egg retrieval is the process of removing eggs from the ovaries. The procedure is performed as part of IVF, as well as for egg donation and egg freezing. There are some risks associated with egg retrieval, as with any medical procedure; however, the majority of patients do not develop any side effects. Below, we will take a look at how egg retrieval works and what the potential side effects are.

How Egg Retrieval Works

Before the eggs are retrieved, the patient will take fertility drugs to stimulate the development of egg follicles. The retrieval itself is performed by passing a hollow needle through the wall of the vagina into the ovary, and is guided with an ultrasound probe. The needle is then guided into each egg follicle, and the fluid is aspirated from the follicle into a test tube. After the procedure, the fluid is inspected under a microscope to identify the egg. It is not always possible to retrieve every egg, but the doctor will attempt to retrieve the egg from each visible follicle. 10-20 eggs is considered a good number to retrieve. Egg retrieval is performed under anesthesia, so that the patient will not feel pain or remember the procedure. Because of the anesthesia, the woman must not drink or eat anything starting the previous night. The procedure usually takes 15-20 minutes, and the woman can usually leave within an hour after the procedure is over in most cases. The woman may experience some drowsiness or nausea for the rest of the day. The next day, most women feel up to resuming their normal activities.‍

Potential Side Effects

‍There is a risk of side effects with this procedure, as with any medical procedure. Some potential side effects include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Mild to moderate pelvic or abdominal pain
• Damage to pelvic or abdominal organs, including the ovaries, bladder and bowel
• Reaction to the anesthesia medication

Your doctor will send you home with instructions about how to take care of yourself after the procedure, and which symptoms should be reported to the doctor. Heavy bleeding, high fever, and severe pain should all be reported to your doctor promptly.

The majority of women do not experience any side effects, and the majority of side effects that do occur are mild and treatable. Your doctor will only perform this procedure if he believes that the benefits outweigh the risks in your case, but only you can decide whether or not you are willing to accept those risks. Dr. Randy Morris would be happy to meet with you about your infertility. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call IVF1 at (630) 357-6540.