Oocyte Retrieval: What one should know?

The egg retrieval procedure is a critical step in the IVF process. There has been a lot of build-ups to this day, and you may experience a range of feelings, including excitement, worry, and even fear. If this is your first cycle, you may have many concerns about preparing, what to expect during the procedure, and how to recover.

Exactly knowing what will happen during the egg retrieval procedure can help to put your mind at ease. Hence, the team of the best IVF doctor in Ahmedabad at Nisha IVF thoroughly explains the individuals or couples about every step of their IVF treatment. Nisha IVF, one of the best IVF centre in Ahmedabad, India is well-known for the best IVF treatment in Ahmedabad. 

Continue reading this article to learn about oocyte retrieval, its procedure, recovery, and more.

So, first, let’s know,

What is oocyte retrieval, and how it works?

Oocyte retrieval is the process of extracting eggs from a woman’s ovaries. It is a crucial step in the in-vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure. Typically, the procedure is carried out through the vaginal canal. The doctor will closely examine the woman’s ovaries in the weeks leading up to the egg retrieval date to track the growth of her follicles and eggs. 

The woman will be instructed for the HCG trigger injection once the IVF doctor has confirmed that the follicles are mature. The HCG – human chorionic gonadotropin hormone aids in the ultimate egg development. It also triggers egg release from the follicles. 

Since egg retrieval is scheduled during the peak fertile period following ovulation, which is usually 35-36 hours after the HCG trigger shot, it is critical to give the shot within the recommended timeframe.

How should the patient prepare for the oocyte retrieval procedure?

• The patient should follow the doctor’s instructions on the prescribed medications.
• If the patient takes any medications regularly, they should check with the doctor to know if they can take them before the procedure.
• During the appointment, wear loose and comfortable clothing.
• After midnight the night before the procedure, avoid eating or drinking anything.
• Before the procedure, the patient will be asked to empty the bladder.

Let’s discuss,

What happens throughout the oocyte retrieval procedure?

The doctor will administer sedatives to the woman to assist her in falling asleep during the procedure. Then, the doctor will sanitize the vaginal area and use an ultrasound to examine the ovaries. Next, the doctor inserts a needle into one of the ovaries. 

A suction device and a test tube are linked to the needle. Then, the doctor will place the needle into an egg-containing follicle and extract the egg and surrounding fluid into the needle. 

From the needle to the test tube, the eggs will travel. This process is repeated in the other ovary and with other follicles. It takes roughly 30 to 60 minutes to complete the procedure. After that, the woman is escorted to the recovery room to relax for a few hours.

The doctor transfers the retrieved eggs to the IVF lab to achieve fertilization of the egg by the sperm. The fertilized egg develops into an embryo. The resulting embryo is implanted into the woman’s uterus to achieve pregnancy.

Now, let’s know,

What are the risks associated with oocyte retrieval?

After the egg retrieval procedure, the patient can experience:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Side-effect of anaesthesia

What to expect about the recovery after oocyte retrieval?

• The patient will need someone to drive to and from the appointment because she will be sedated for the procedure.
• The patient can experience cramps or pressure in the stomach when she first wakes up.
• If the patient feels nauseated, she can drink clear beverages and eat crackers.
• The patient can wear a pantiliner if she experiences minor spotting.
• After the procedure, the patient should rest for at least 24 hours.
• Walking is fine, but the patient should avoid heavy lifting and vigorous activities.
• Take any drugs the prescribed medications.
• A heating pad placed on the abdomen can also help feel better.

Call the doctor if the patient experiences:

• Vaginal bleeding that is heavier than an average period
• Vaginal discharge that has foul-smell 
• Persisting pain that is not relieved by pain medication
• High fever of more than 100^oF
• Persisting nausea for more than 24 hours
• Signs of an allergic reaction like rash, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing

For many patients, egg retrieval can be a highly emotional day, and both hormones and anaesthetics can amplify the day’s feelings. Ensure you consult an experienced IVF doctor in Ahmedabad to receive a safe, comfortable, and result-oriented IVF treatment.