40w LaterGuide

Fertility Guide

IVF Step 4 – Your Eggs Have Been Retrieved

Egg retrieval is usually performed in the morning, and the exact time is generally confirmed 2–3 days in advance.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or sedation. The eggs are retrieved using a needle guided by transvaginal ultrasound.

If you are receiving sedation, you will usually need to fast for at least 8 hours before the procedure. Once you have recovered from the sedation, you can usually go home the same day.

A semen sample is also usually collected on the day of egg retrieval, so your partner may need to come to the clinic with you.

Avoid driving yourself home after the procedure. You can generally return to light daily activities the same day, but it is best to avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and other physically demanding activities.