Egg extraction, also known as oocyte puncture, is a procedure in which mature eggs are extracted from a woman's ovaries for use in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
The egg extraction procedure is usually performed under intravenous sedation, which means that the patient will be in a state of drowsiness, but not completely unconscious.
The procedure includes the following steps:
- The patient lies on her back, and the vaginal area is cleansed and anesthetized.
- Vaginal ultrasound is used to visualize the ovaries and follicles (sacs containing eggs).
- A thin needle attached to an aspiration pump is inserted through the vagina into each follicle.
- The fluid from each follicle is aspirated, and it contains eggs.
- The eggs are extracted from the liquid and evaluated under a microscope.
Before egg extraction, the patient is prescribed hormonal drugs to stimulate the ovaries and produce several mature eggs.
In preparation for the procedure, the patient may be advised:
- Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.
- Avoid eating and drinking liquids 6-8 hours before the procedure.
- Take an antibiotic to prevent infection.
After egg extraction, the patient may experience:
- Small vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Abdominal discomfort
- Bloating of the abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting
These symptoms usually go away within a few days. The patient is advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities.
The extracted eggs are used for fertilization with sperm in the laboratory. The fertilized eggs (embryos) are then placed in the woman's uterus for implantation and possible pregnancy.
The success rate of egg extraction depends on a number of factors, including a woman's age, ovarian condition, and hormonal stimulation protocols used.
In general, the success rate of egg extraction is about 70-80%. This means that approximately 70-80% of women undergoing egg extraction receive at least one mature egg suitable for fertilization.
