While ovarian retrieval may sound a bit scary, it is actually a fairly common procedure with very few side effects. During IVF, mature eggs are collected and extracted from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. Then the fertilized egg, i.e. the embryo, is transferred to the

Z womb.

The complete IVF procedure can take about three weeks, but it can often take longer.

In the following article, some information about the artificial insemination process.

Egg retrieval process

Egg retrieval involves a surgical procedure using light anesthesia given through a vein, during which the woman can breathe on her own throughout the surgery, but she won''t remember or feel anything during it.

After anesthesia, the surgeon will make an ultrasound of the vagina, then he will a needle through the vaginal wall and into the ovaries, where the needle will into each ovarian follicle and withdraw the fluid and the eggs that come with it.

The doctor gives this fluid to the embryologist, who can immediately see how many eggs have been obtained, which is usually around 15-20, and it is estimated that 80% of the eggs retrieved will be viable.

The woman usually wakes up after about 30 minutes, recovers within 1 to 2 hours in the health care facility, and can then go home to rest.

Since it is not recommended to drive for 24 hours after the operation, it must be accompanied by a friend or family member, and most patients can return to work the next day, although they may experience minor side effects, but there are no scars or stitches required for the surgery .

Preparing for the egg retrieval process

If the procedure will take place under anesthesia, you may be asked not to eat or drink for 8-10 hours before it, and you will also be asked to remove contact lenses, jewelry and nail polish. An anesthesiologist or nurse will meet with you before the procedure to get some basic medical information.

Once you are settled in the operating room, you will be given some medication, either through a vein or a face mask, to put you to sleep.

Risks of egg retrieval

If sedated, you will be asleep and not feel anything during the procedure, but after that, you may notice some cramping similar to your period, so your doctor may prescribe pain relievers, although acetaminophen is usually enough to relieve any discomfort.

Although the risk is small, bleeding and infection may occur as well as damage to the intestines or bladder. There is also a possibility that the eggs will not be found and pregnancy may not occur.

Another potential complication is ovarian hyperstimulation, which is an over-responsiveness to stimulation of the ovaries with medication.