Egg retrieval is a crucial step in the IVF process where mature eggs are collected from the ovaries for fertilisation.
1. Preparation Before Egg Retrieval
- Ovarian Stimulation
- Fertility medications are prescribed to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
- Growth of follicles is monitored through ultrasounds and blood tests.
- Final Maturation Trigger
- When follicles reach the desired size, a trigger injection is given.
- This injection helps eggs mature fully and prepares them for retrieval.
- Timing of Procedure
- Egg retrieval is scheduled approximately 34–36 hours after the trigger injection.
- Accurate timing is essential for successful egg collection.
2. The Egg Retrieval Procedure
- Day of the Procedure
- The patient is advised to come on an empty stomach.
- The procedure is performed in a sterile operating theatre.
- Anesthesia
- Mild sedation or short anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort.
- The patient remains pain-free throughout the process.
- Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration
- A thin needle attached to an ultrasound probe is gently inserted through the vaginal wall.
- Follicular fluid containing eggs is aspirated from each ovary.
3. Role of the Embryology Laboratory
- Immediate Egg Identification
- The collected fluid is immediately transferred to the embryology lab.
- Embryologists identify and isolate mature eggs under a microscope.
- Quality Assessment
- Eggs are examined for maturity and quality.
- Suitable eggs are selected for fertilisation.
- Advanced Lab Techniques
- state-of-the-art laboratory technology ensures optimal egg handling.
- strict quality protocols are followed.
4. After the Egg Retrieval Procedure
- Recovery Period
- The patient rests for 1–2 hours under observation.
- Mild cramping or spotting may occur and usually resolves quickly.
- Medications and Care
- Pain relief medications may be prescribed if needed.
- Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours.
- Resumption of Daily Activities
- Most patients can return home the same day.
- Normal activities can be resumed the next day.
5. Fertilisation Process After Egg Retrieval
- Egg and Sperm Fertilisation
- Retrieved eggs are fertilised with sperm using IVF or ICSI.
- The fertilisation process takes place in controlled lab conditions.
- Embryo Development
- Fertilised eggs are monitored for embryo development over the next few days.
- Healthy embryos are selected for transfer or freezing.
6. Safety and Comfort
- Expert Supervision
- Experienced specialists perform the entire egg retrieval process.
- Ensures patient safety and comfort at every stage.
- Minimal Risks
- Egg retrieval is a safe and routine procedure when done correctly.
- Any risks are minimised through careful monitoring.
- Patient-Centric Care
- emotional support and clear communication are prioritised.
- Patients are guided and reassured throughout the procedure.