Ovum Pick Up Procedure in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

In vitro fertilization treats a range of infertility issues in women and men so that they can fulfill their dream of starting a family. Also known as IVF, this treatment involves a complex series of steps that ultimately lead a person to their pregnancy. So, for any couple who have made up their mind to go ahead with IVF, there is a lot of confusion as this is not something they have done before. However, for an IVF pregnancy to be successful, everything must happen systematically. For instance, the ovum pick-up procedure is an important part, and, in this article, we will tell you all about it.

So, stay tuned till the end as all your doubts will be clear, and you can learn about the precautions you need to take prior to the OPU procedure.

How Is Ovum Pickup Or Egg Retrieval Done?

The ovum pick-up (OPU) procedure, also known as egg retrieval, is a critical step in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process. It involves using a fine 25-gauge needle attached to a syringe to aspirate mature ovarian follicles under ultrasound guidance. The procedure is minimally invasive and performed under mild sedation. The collected oocytes are then transferred to a specialized medium for subsequent fertilization in the laboratory. This process is essential for retrieving viable eggs from the ovaries, making them available for fertilization and embryo development.

Understanding the Ovum Pick-Up Procedure in IVF

In vitro fertilization (IVF) addresses various infertility issues in both women and men, helping them realize their dream of starting a family. IVF involves several complex steps, one of which is the ovum pick-up (OPU) procedure. This article aims to provide a detailed understanding of the OPU process and the precautions necessary for its success.

How Is Ovum Pick-Up Done?

Preparation:
- On the day of the OPU, arrive at the fertility clinic on time.
- The procedure is typically performed under mild sedation to ensure comfort.
Procedure:
- An ultrasound is conducted to locate the ovaries accurately.
- A fine 25-gauge needle, connected to a test tube and a suction device, is guided through the vaginal wall into the ovarian follicles.
- The needle gently aspirates the follicles to collect the eggs, which are then transferred to a Petri dish containing a specialized medium.
Post-Procedure:
- After the effects of anesthesia wear off, you can go home the same day.
- Temporary side effects like nausea or a feeling of heaviness may occur but typically subside soon.

How to Prepare Yourself for the Day of the Ovum Pick-up?

Here are some things you need to ensure before you visit the fertility clinic for the ovum pick-up procedure:

Injection timings:

The daily injections prior to egg collection are of great significance as these injections are given to stimulate the ovaries and facilitate the development of multiple eggs within the woman’s ovaries. Usually, these injections are administered for 10-16 days so that the stimulation is effective and follicles reach the desired size: 18 to 20 mm. The last injection that is given induces ovulation and hence, it is important that the final injection is given at the right time. If there is any deviation in its timing, there can be a negative impact on the result and the eggs may not mature.

Proper storage of the final injection:

Your doctor will ask you to keep the last injection in your fridge but not inside the freezer. Then you have to transport the injection to the clinic in a cold condition. Wondering why this is important? It is to make sure that the medication is effective, and the conditions are favorable for egg maturation.

Stomach cleansing and antibiotics:

Antibiotics will be prescribed by your doctor 24 hours before the egg retrieval or ovum pick-up. You also have to take stomach-cleansing medication at least one day before. These medications minimize the chances of infection and prepare your body for the procedure.

Prepare your spouse:

After the egg retrieval procedure, the next step is sperm retrieval, and the man needs to ejaculate around 3-4 days before the ovum pick-up so that the number of live sperm is higher in his semen sample. For IVF treatment to yield results, this is mandatory. Use donor sperm if the quality of the partner’s sperm is not great.

ECG and Blood Reports:

You must not forget to bring your blood reports. Your doctor might also request you to do an ECG (based on your age). Both the ECG and blood tests prevent health issues after the doctor gives anesthesia.

Avoid eating:

Fast before the procedure; an empty stomach is necessary for the anesthesia. When you visit the IVF treatment center, your stomach should be empty. Also, try to reach the hospital at least 1 hour before the time slot given to you.

Will Ovum Pick-up Procedure Hurt?

If you think ovum pick-up can be painful, stop worrying about it. It is a pain-free procedure, and no incision will be necessary. Your healthcare provider will only insert a small needle for collecting the eggs and you will not feel any pain during or after the procedure.

Note: Some people feel mild pain after the IVF egg collection procedure. It is normal and will go away within 24 hours.

To Sum Up

We may conclude by saying that undergoing IVF is a different kind of experience for any couple. When you know the necessary steps, you will be less intimidated before and during the procedure. You also won’t commit any mistakes.

So, this was all about ovum pickup in IVF and if you want to know in detail about the other crucial steps, discuss it with your fertility specialist.

Dr Ritu Agarwal

Dr. Ritu Agarwal is an appreciated IVF expert in Jaipur for IVF therapy, owing to her more than ten years of experience in this field. She is the top IVF specialist in Jaipur who makes every attempt to provide correct counseling and emotional support to patients in order to help them find the ideal solution for becoming parents.