Going through IVF can feel overwhelming at times. We’re here to provide expert guidance to help make your egg retrieval procedure as stress-free as possible. Read on to uncover what to expect and how to best prepare.
What is IVF egg retrieval?
IVF egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure where your doctor will extract mature eggs from your ovaries. It’s usually done as a transvaginal procedure using ultrasound guidance. Having undergone stimulation with fertility drugs for 10 days or more, you’ll take your final “trigger” injection around 36 hours before your scheduled retrieval time. This medication helps the eggs reach full maturity. The procedure may be done with an IV for light sedation. You’ll breathe with oxygen assistance and your blood pressure and pulse will be monitored while the anaesthesia keeps you fully comfortable.
The procedure involves your doctor using vaginal ultrasound to locate the follicles (sacs) in your ovaries. Ideally, you will have developed a large number of mature follicles, following stimulation by the fertility drugs. These follicles should contain eggs. Once identified, a thin needle, often attached to the side of the ultrasound probe, is passed through the vaginal wall to aspirate (remove under a slight vacuum) the fluid inside which hopefully contains an egg. Once the fluid is obtained, it is passed through to the IVF lab to check there is an egg present. This is done repeatedly to empty all the mature follicles that can be visualised by ultrasound. The needle will then be removed and the procedure repeated in the other ovary. The whole process takes around 30 minutes and most patients experience very little discomfort. Following the procedure, you will be told how many eggs have been collected.
What are the key do’s and don’ts before IVF egg retrieval?
Proper preparation can help put your mind at ease and set you up for an optimal outcome. Here are some key dos and don’ts to be aware of:
Do’s
Do take the day of your procedure off to prepare and recover
It’s wise to clear your schedule on the day of egg retrieval. Having nowhere to rush off to allows you to properly relax beforehand and take it easy afterwards. Some women feel a little tender on the day of egg retrieval so it’s key to ensure you’re not jumping straight back into any strenuous activity.
Do use relaxation techniques
Studies indicate that if the level of infertility-related stress is higher, the IVF success rate is lower, so it’s important to prepare and calm your mind and body by practising relaxation techniques. There are a number of beneficial practices including mindfulness and deep breathing that can help to manage anxiety.
Spend some time exploring different relaxation methods in the weeks leading up to your retrieval. Guided meditation apps make it easy to fit calming exercises into your day.
Do take IVF fertility supplements
When preparing for your egg retrieval during IVF, it’s important to focus on optimising egg quality. The healthier and more viable your eggs, the greater your chances of success with treatments like IVF. Integrating specific IVF supplements into your routine at least three months prior to IVF can make a meaningful difference.
In the months leading up to your IVF procedure, start taking a supplement formulated to support egg quality and overall reproductive health. Our supplement Impryl contains research-backed nutrients that create an ideal internal environment for egg development. The micronutrients in Impryl help maintain metabolic balance, protecting delicate egg cells from DNA damage. This helps you to produce eggs that are good quality for your IVF cycle. Impryl provides comprehensive nutritional support tailored to this crucial stage.
Rather than taking a mix of multivitamins that can interact or overlap, stick to one cohesive egg-quality supplement recommended by fertility experts and backed by science. Simplifying your regime avoids any potential complications. With Impryl, you can feel confident you’re properly nourishing your body to produce optimal eggs for your upcoming retrieval.
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Do pick out loose-fitting and comfortable clothes to wear
You’ll want to feel as relaxed as possible before and after your egg retrieval. What you wear can play a part in that. Opt for loose, non-restrictive clothing that allows you to move freely without anything digging into your abdomen.
Loose trousers, jogging bottoms with an elasticated waistband or a dress are great choices. You may experience some bloating and tenderness after the procedure, so you’ll appreciate wearing something comfortable.
Do arrange for someone to stay with you after your procedure
Having a familiar face by your side can provide immense comfort before, during and after your egg retrieval. You’ll also need an extra pair of hands to help get you home safely after you have had the procedure.
The Don’ts
Don’t eat or drink for 7 hours before egg collection
You’ll need to have an empty stomach, so avoid all food and drink (including water) for at least 7 hours prior. This is because you’re being sedated for the procedure and fasting prevents risks like vomiting while under sedation.
Having any food or liquid in your system could potentially cause complications with the anaesthesia and retrieval process. An empty stomach allows the medications to be metabolised properly and prevents any extra movement of stomach contents that could get forced upwards. Set a reminder on your phone if needed, and be strict about not having anything to eat or drink after that cut-off point. Following this guidance exactly helps ensure your safety and comfort during the procedure.
Don’t wear makeup, nail varnish or perfume
It’s advisable to have a bath or shower the morning of your egg collection using an antimicrobial soap and avoiding products with oils/lotions that could interfere.
It’s important to ensure that you’ve removed makeup, nail polish, contact lenses, and jewellery, and aren’t wearing any perfume on the day of retrieval. These products can increase bacterial exposure risks during the procedure.
Don’t drink alcohol before or after the procedure
In the weeks and months before retrieval, alcohol can negatively affect egg quality and maturation during the stimulation phase. You want your eggs to develop in the most optimal environment possible.
Then, in the days immediately after your procedure, abstaining from alcohol remains vital. Your body has undergone minor surgery and will be in a delicate healing period as you prepare for embryo transfer. Introducing alcohol can impair and prolong recovery, while also potentially impacting embryo quality if drinking occurs before transfer.
Avoiding alcohol lays the important groundwork for a smooth egg retrieval experience and increases your chances of a positive outcome. We understand changing your lifestyle and habits can be difficult, but think of it as an investment in your fertility goals. Read our guide on drinking when trying to conceive to learn more. Your self-care now can pay dividends later.
Don’t drive home or use public transport
After being sedated for your egg retrieval procedure, you’ll be in no condition to operate a vehicle or navigate public transportation safely. The sedation medication can significantly impair your coordination, judgement, and reflexes for several hours.
It’s crucial to plan ahead and arrange for a responsible friend or family member to handle your transport home.
Don’t partake in strenuous activity
Take it easy and rest after your procedure. Avoid anything too physically taxing for a day or two while your body recovers. Following the egg retrieval, you’ll be resting on a bed in the recovery area for 1-2 hours. The nursing staff will monitor you as the sedation wears off and make sure you’re stable before being discharged.
Once you’ve been cleared to head home, the healing process continues. Your ovaries will be recovering from the procedure, so you’ll want to take things slowly. Hold off on vigorous exercise routines, heavy lifting, or any activities that could potentially lead to pain or bleeding. Think easy, gentle movements only for the next 24-48 hours.
With some simple preparation, you can help make your egg retrieval experience go smoothly. Listen to your doctor’s pre-op instructions and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
References
Aimagambetova G, Issanov A, Terzic S, Bapayeva G, Ukybassova T, Baikoshkarova S, Aldiyarova A, Shauyen F, Terzic M. The effect of psychological distress on IVF outcomes: Reality or speculations? PLoS One. 2020 Dec 14;15(12):e0242024. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242024. PMID: 33315878; PMCID: PMC7735622.
Rossi BV, Berry KF, Hornstein MD, Cramer DW, Ehrlich S, Missmer SA. Effect of alcohol consumption on in vitro fertilization. Obstet Gynecol. 2011 Jan;117(1):136-142. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0b013e31820090e1. PMID: 21173655; PMCID: PMC4487775.
