Egg retrieval — also known as oocyte pickup (OPU) — is a crucial step in IVF treatment. It is a simple, short procedure where mature eggs are collected from the woman’s ovaries under mild anaesthesia.
At Dr. Aishwarya’s clinic, egg retrieval is done with expert care, using advanced ultrasound guidance, ensuring maximum comfort, safety, and success. Every effort is made to minimise anxiety and maximise egg quality — because every egg counts in your fertility journey.
After stimulating your ovaries with fertility injections (to grow multiple eggs), the mature eggs are carefully collected using a fine needle. This is done through the vaginal route under ultrasound guidance and light sedation or anaesthesia.
The procedure usually takes 15–20 minutes and does not involve cuts, stitches, or hospital admission. You can return home the same day after a short rest.
Egg retrieval is a part of all IVF and ICSI cycles, and is also used in:
It is necessary whenever mature eggs are needed outside the body for fertilisation or storage.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens:
You will take daily fertility injections for 8–12 days. These stimulate your ovaries to develop multiple follicles (fluid-filled sacs containing eggs).
Regular ultrasounds and blood tests are done to check the growth of follicles. Once they reach the right size, a “trigger shot” is given to mature the eggs.
The retrieved eggs are examined by an embryologist. Mature eggs are separated and prepared for fertilisation through IVF or ICSI.
Dr. Aishwarya personally monitors every step to ensure your cycle goes smoothly and results in the best possible outcome.
Done under mild anaesthesia — painless and stress-free
Ultrasound-guided technique for accuracy
Same-day discharge — no hospital stay required
Expert embryology support to handle and assess eggs
Special care for first-time IVF patients to reduce anxiety
Transparent explanation of number of eggs collected and maturity status
No. You will be under light anaesthesia and won’t feel anything during the procedure.
Not at all. Eggs are collected vaginally using a fine needle. It is minimally invasive and scar-free.
This depends on your age, ovarian reserve, and response to stimulation. Most women produce 8–15 eggs per cycle, but this varies.
You’ll be asked to rest at the clinic for 1–2 hours. You may feel light cramping or bloating. Most women resume light activity the next day.
No. The eggs collected are those that your body would have naturally lost that month. The procedure does not damage your fertility.
Egg retrieval is a turning point in your IVF journey. With the right hands, it becomes a safe, smooth, and empowering experience.
Dr. Aishwarya S Fertility & Reproductive Medicine Specialist dedicated to compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals and couples.
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