Introduction to Egg Retrieval Procedure: Egg Retrieval Process in Egg Freezing & IVF

Egg retrieval is a key step in both egg freezing and IVF. After hormone stimulation, your mature eggs are collected from the ovaries using a thin needle guided by ultrasound.

The difference is that in egg freezing, the retrieved eggs are stored for future use, while in IVF, the retrieved eggs are fertilised right away.

The number of eggs needed to achieve a successful pregnancy increases with age.

To reach a 95% cumulative probability of pregnancy, research suggests that women under 30 typically need around 8 oocytes. This number rises to approximately 11 oocytes for women aged 30 to 35, about 23 oocytes for those aged 36 to 40, and up to 43 oocytes for women over 40.

Transvaginal ultrasound-guided egg retrieval is the gold standard method due to its safety and efficiency. It involves guiding a thin needle into the ovarian follicles to collect eggs.

This technique is minimally invasive, typically requires mild sedation, and carries fewer risks than laparoscopic methods. It's preferred for its simplicity, effectiveness, and quick recovery time.

Historically, laparoscopic retrieval was the primary method of egg collection. While it was effective in retrieving a good number and quality of eggs, it required an incision and general anaesthesia, which led to it being replaced by the less invasive ultrasound-guided technique.

However, laparoscopic retrieval is still necessary in certain cases, such as in patients with cervical cancer, ovarian dysgerminoma, or Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) Syndrome, a condition involving an underdeveloped vagina and uterus.

After retrieval, the maturity of your eggs is assessed under a microscope. Only the mature eggs are selected for cryopreservation or freezing.

The standard freezing method used is vitrification, a rapid cooling technique that prevents the formation of ice crystals, which could damage the eggs. This method offers higher survival rates during the thawing.

After egg retrieval, it’s common to experience mild cramping, bloating, constipation, and light vaginal spotting within the first 24 hours. Most discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or a heating pad.

However, if you experience severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or heavy bleeding, please contact your doctor immediately.