Egg collection

• What it is and how is it done
• Is it painful?
• What preparations are necessary?
• Is it dangerous?

What it is and how is it done

The egg collection is the recovery of eggs from the ovaries. It is performed in a special room in our Unit, under sterile theatre conditions, at a specific time, usually 35-36 hours after the last injection (Pregnyl, Profasi, Ovitrelle).

The egg collection is performed by the doctor transvaginally, under constant ultrasound guidance, which facilitates the doctor's precise manoeuvres. The follicles are punctured one after another using a special needle that traverses the vaginal wall. The contents of each follicle are aspirated into special tubes and are passed on to the embryology laboratory. The embryologist locates the eggs and places them in dishes containing culture medium. All the equipment and consumables used fulfil special requirements, ensuring that they are not potentially toxic to the gametes and the embryos.

Is it painful?

The procedure of egg collection is practically painless is done under intravenous analgesia (sedation) administered by the anaesthetist. An egg collection usually takes 20-30 minutes.

You will then stay in the recovery room for a further 30 minutes to 1 hour to rest and to allow our staff to ensure you are well enough to leave.

Before leaving the Unit you will be informed about the number of eggs retrieved and will receive further instructions for the continuation of the treatment.

What preparations are necessary?

A light dinner the evening before the egg collection, shaving and cleansing of the outer genitals. On the day of egg collection: you must refrain from eating or drinking, and must not have polished nails or perfume.

It is advisable that your schedule is free the morning of the egg collection.

You must arrive at the Unit at the specified time along with your husband, who will provide the sperm.

Is it dangerous?

There is a chance of trauma or inflammation of the internal genitals, but it is estimated internationally to be minimal. In the hands of an experienced doctor this possibility is practically negligible or even zero.

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