Egg collection procedure
To ensure eggs are collected at the optimum time, IVF specialists monitor the development of the follicles using blood tests to check estrogen levels and ultrasound scans to monitor how many eggs are produced.
When the eggs have matured and are ready for collection, a hormone injection will be given 36 hours prior to the procedure to encourage the final maturity of the eggs. (NB: A hormone will not be given before egg collection if women have chosen IVF with in vitro maturation (IVM))
Mature eggs are the healthiest and more likely to provide successful IVF cycles. To encourage maturity of the eggs before egg retrieval, hormone injections are administered 36 hours before the eggs are collected.
Egg collection (follicular aspiration) is performed on an out-patient basis. Surgeons insert a special needle through the pelvic cavity to retrieve the eggs. The needle uses suction to draw the ova individually (unfertilized egg) from the follicle through the stomach wall. Eggs can be removed through the vagina or bladder if a laparoscopic approach is not suitable.
The procedure for egg collection may be uncomfortable and local anesthetic will be given to reduce any discomfort.
There is no pain after the procedural but women may experience cramping similar to menstrual cramps for a few days.
