Egg retrieval is the step during IVF in which the oocytes are removed from the ovaries. Egg retrieval is the most invasive step of the process, which can make it a source of anxiety for some patients. Below, we will take a look at what to expect when the eggs are retrieved during IVF.

Egg Retrieval Stage of IVF

Preparation

‍Before the eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, the woman must be placed under anesthesia so that she does not feel or remember the procedure. Starting the night before the procedure, the woman must not eat or drink anything, and will continue to fast until after the procedure is over. At the fertility clinic, an intravenous (IV) line will be started, and the anesthesia and sedation are administered through that line.

‍The Process

‍During oocyte retrieval, the doctor inserts a hollow needle through the vaginal wall into the ovary, then to the specific follicle to retrieve an egg. This process is guided by a vaginal ultrasound. Once the needle is in place, the fluid inside the follicle is aspirated into a test tube. Then, the embryologist inspects the fluid under a microscope to ensure that an egg was collected. Most of the time, several large follicles are present, along with a number of smaller follicles. All of these follicles will be aspirated to give the best chances of success.The egg retrieval process usually takes less than 20 minutes.

After the procedure, the woman is taken to the recovery room while she rouses from the anesthesia. About an hour after the procedure, the woman can usually leave the clinic. Before leaving, the couple will find out how many eggs were retrieved.On the same day as the egg retrieval, the woman's partner will also come to the clinic with fresh sperm to be used in the procedure. If donated or frozen sperm is used, it will be thawed and prepared for use in the fertilization process.The same day that the eggs are retrieved, they will be fertilized, then allowed to mature for several days, until reaching the blastocyst stage. At the blastocyst stage, the embryos will either be transferred to the uterus, frozen for later use, or discarded due to genetic abnormalities.

‍After the Procedure

‍Because anesthesia is used during oocyte retrieval, the woman cannot drive herself to or from the clinic, or for the next 24 hours. For the day after the procedure, the woman will likely be drowsy, and may experience other anesthesia side effects such as nausea. Mild side effects like bleeding may also occur. Serious side effects are rare, and the doctor will provide information on which symptoms to watch for and report. Dr. Randy Morris would be happy to meet with you about whether or not egg retrieval is right for you. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call IVF1 at (630) 357-6540.