For most women the decision to go for their first IVF is in itself quite nerve wracking and emotional. It is quite normal to see this as a potentially life changing step and be hopeful yet slightly intimidated. However clarity on what the procedure involves and how various stages will proceed can definitely serve to remove the shroud of mystery and unfamiliarity of the procedure, giving women more confidence moving ahead.
A majority of the questions that our team of IVF specialists encounter from our patients are about the egg retrieval process. So here is a look at some frequently asked questions about this key step of the IVF procedure and how to prepare yourself for it.
What does egg retrieval involve?
The egg retrieval refers to removal of oocytes (egg cells) from the ovaries through a ultrasound guided needle. The patient is observed during egg maturation cycle and once the egg follicles reach a certain size (determined by ultrasound), a human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone injection is administered to help with the egg maturation. The injection dose is carefully timed to ensure that the egg retrieval can be carried out just before ovulation.
During the actual process, the patient is put under light anaesthesia. The ultrasound probe attached with a needle is inserted into the vagina and the eggs are retrieved from the ovaries under the guidance of ultrasound.
How long does the procedure take?
Egg retrieval is normally a quick procedure taking around 20 to 30 minutes. The actual time taken depends on factors such as accessibility of the ovaries (how easy is to reach ovaries with ultrasound probe) and the number of follicles present.
Is egg retrieval painful?
Egg retrieval is done under anaesthesia. Patients are given anaesthesia through intravenous drips and do not feel any pain during the procedure. After the effect of anaesthesia wears off, you may experience some cramping and slight pain. Your doctor will prescribe safe pain medication to help with it.
Is there a possibility of ovary damage due to egg retrieval?
The widely available data on egg retrievals shows that there is no damage to ovaries due to
egg retrieval. Many women undergo multiple egg retrievals due to various reasons. It has
been seen that even women undergoing various egg retrievals respond well to the procedure
and produce eggs leading to successful pregnancies. This shows that their ovaries are healthy.
Certain studies in which appearance of ovaries was studied in women who have undergone
egg retrievals, the appearance was normal.
Is bleeding normal after egg retrieval?
It is normal to experience some vaginal bleeding after an egg retrieval. It is usually minor and
similar to menstrual bleeding.
Can I do anything to improve my egg quality before egg retrieval?
Yes, it is believed that lifestyle factors may effect egg production and quality. You should try
to make healthier lifestyle choices once you decide to go for fertility treatment. Optimal
healthy diet, regular moderate exercise and avoiding stress are key to this. Also if you are
past 35 years of age, you should consider opting for egg retrieval early.
What happens after egg retrieval?
Your doctor will prescribe some antibiotics to prevent any infections and a steroid to reduce
any inflammation of ovaries. Some hormonal supplements may also be prescribed to support
regrowth of endometrial lining. Your doctor may also suggest that you refrain from sexual
contact for some time.
The retrieved eggs will be fertilized with your partner’s or a donor’s sperm depending on your particular situation.
The highly trained specialists at Shantah IVF guide you and help you every step of the way during your entire IVF experience. You can contact us here for detailed consultaions.
