The egg retrieval process is crucial in ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) services like egg donation. If you are considering becoming an egg donor yourself, read on as we discuss this process in detail.
Understanding Egg Retrieval
The egg extraction procedure is a necessary part of the egg donor process.
Egg donation is a popular form of ART, drawing on medical techniques similar to those used in IVF, where an embryo is created in a medical setting and then implanted for pregnancy. This is accomplished through a series of procedures, one of the most important being an egg retrieval “surgery.”
Unlike IVF, where the intended parent’s own gametes are used to make an embryo, donor agreements involve eggs from a qualified third party called a donor. With these arrangements, the donor, rather than the intended mother, undergoes egg retrieval. Depending on the circumstances, the embryo created from this egg extraction procedure will be implanted into either a surrogate or the intended mother.
Preparing for Your Egg Retrieval Journey
The egg retrieval procedure is minimally invasive, fairly straightforward, and is typically performed in an outpatient setting. You will be able to bring a companion along for this procedure. The costs of their travel arrangements, as well as yours, will be covered by the intended parents.
Leading up to your egg extraction procedure, you will follow specific instructions to prepare your body for retrieval, including taking several medications and hormones. Your medical practice will closely monitor you during this time.
The egg retrieval procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia. This is important to consider when making preparations. For instance, your doctor or anesthesiologist will likely advise you not to eat or drink for many hours ahead of your procedure for your safety. Some prep instructions may be specific to your medical needs.
How Long is the Egg Retrieval Process?
The egg retrieval process itself is not a lengthy procedure. It requires no incisions or stitches and is considered minimally invasive. Typically, it takes around a half hour to complete.
During an egg retrieval, your doctor uses an ultrasound probe to bring your eggs to your ovaries. The eggs are then extracted from the ovaries using a process called aspiration. Following retrieval, you will likely spend a few hours in an onsite recovery room.
Egg Retrieval Recovery: What to Expect
In the 24 hours following your egg retrieval procedure, you may be asked to follow specific recovery instructions. You will be asked not to drive—instead, your companion will take you home for recovery. Ideally, they should stay with you over the next 24 hours. This is typical for post-anesthetic recovery.
In terms of egg retrieval recovery, every donor has a different experience. Some people feel fine straight away, while others experience some temporary discomfort. You may experience bloating and/or constipation as a side effect of their egg retrieval procedure, as well as cramping, discomfort and soreness around the pelvis. Your clinic will provide specific instructions for post-procedural relief. Many donors find that over-the-counter pain relief is strong enough to manage this discomfort, though ibuprofen is typically not recommended.
Most donors feel okay to get back to their regular routines a couple of days after their procedure. However, your doctor might recommend you wait until your next period begins before returning to more strenuous activities, like exercise.
On the topic of menstruation, don’t panic if you spot or bleed following your egg extraction procedure. Lots of donors experience this! In terms of a full period after egg retrieval, most donors find that they begin a new menstrual cycle around a week and a half after their procedure.
Is Egg Retrieval Painful?
It’s natural to worry about pain ahead of a procedure like egg retrieval. However, due to the non-invasive nature of an egg retrieval procedure, this process is not typically very painful.
Some people are more sensitive to anesthetics than others. After going under, you may experience nausea, vomiting or exhaustion. If you are concerned about these side effects, speak with your anaesthesiologist or doctor about management options.
Potential Risks and Side Effects to Consider
Like any medical procedure, there are rare but important risks to consider before undergoing the egg retrieval process. While highly unlikely, there is a chance the procedure could cause an injury or infection. If you experience unusual symptoms following your egg retrieval, contact your doctor.
What is a Hormone Crash?
After the egg retrieval process, some patients report feeling highly emotional, irritable, and anxious. This is often attributed to the “crash” the body experiences when it stops taking required pre-retrieval medications and hormones. While these incidents are typically anecdotal and have not yet been officially studied, it is something to keep in mind.
Have More Questions About Egg Retrieval?
We have answers! Here at Extraordinary Conceptions, we offer full support and guidance to egg donors around the world, from matching and screening to retrieval day itself. We’ve been facilitating egg donor agreements for two decades and are ready to help whenever you need it. If you meet the necessary guidelines to become an egg donor, you can apply to join our secure database today.
Please get in touch with the Extraordinary Conceptions team for all the information you need. We look forward to helping you navigate this exciting journey—thank you for making us part of your story!
