Egg retrieval is necessary for IVF, egg donation, and egg freezing. During this minimally invasive procedure, the doctor removes mature eggs from the ovaries, so that they can be used in the planned fertility treatment. Below, we will take a look at what you can expect during your egg retrieval procedure.‍

Prepping for the Procedure

Your doctor will provide prep instructions specific to your situation, but you can expect to follow the following guidelines before the procedure:

• After 8 p.m. on the night before the procedure, you must refrain from eating or drinking until after the procedure.
• You should not wear any jewelry or contact lenses to the procedure.
• Male partners will be asked to provide a semen sample to be used during the IVF procedure.

Before your procedure begins, you will have the opportunity to ask questions, and you will receive verbal and written instructions from your doctor.

What to Expect During Egg Retrieval

Egg retrieval is a minimally invasive procedure. To keep you comfortable during the procedure, you will be placed under sedation. While under sedation and pain medication, you will not feel any discomfort, and you will not remember the procedure. Most of the time, eggs are retrieved via transvaginal ultrasound. During this procedure, an ultrasound probe is inserted into the vagina, which allows the doctor to see the follicles in the ovaries. Then, a thin needle attached to a catheter is inserted through the ultrasound guide and to the ovaries. The follicles are aspirated one by one through a small suction device, and multiple follicles can be retrieved.

In cases where the patient has severe pelvic scar tissue (adhesions), or the patient is otherwise a poor candidate for transvaginal ultrasound, then the procedure may be performed laparoscopically. During this procedure, the doctor makes a small incision in the lower abdomen, and a small camera is inserted along with the needle used to aspirate the egg follicles.

‍What to Expect After the Procedure

‍Because sedation is used, you will be unable to drive for 24 hours after the procedure. Sedation can affect your judgment and reaction time even when you feel fine otherwise. You will need to make arrangements for a ride home, and avoid driving for the next day.You may feel some side effects of the procedure and the sedation for the first few days after the procedure. Common side effects include:

• Discomfort, which should be managed with Tylenol or a prescription medication
• Nausea, which can be treated with ginger ale and crackers
• Dizziness
• Feelings of cramps, fullness, or pressure in the pelvic area

Your doctor will talk to you about warning signs of serious complications. If you experience fever, severe pain, or a significant amount of bleeding, you should contact the office.Dr. Randy Morris would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your infertility. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call IVF1 at (630) 357-6540.