Instructions to follow before egg retrieval

Instructions to follow before egg retrieval

1- Fasting before the procedure:

- Fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure.

- The purpose of fasting is to reduce the risk of acid reflux, which can lead to choking.

2- Medication adherence:

- Take the stimulation or maintenance medications as prescribed.

- Administer the final maturation injection (trigger shot) precisely at the scheduled time.

- Failure to administer the trigger shot at the exact time may affect egg quality.

3- Avoid certain medications:

- Pain relievers that thin the blood, such as ibuprofen.

- Blood thinners, such as anticoagulant injections or aspirin tablets.

- Avoid taking any new medication without consulting your doctor.

4- Personal Hygiene:

- Shower on the morning of the procedure.

- Avoid applying creams, makeup, or nail polish.

- Wear comfortable cotton clothing.

5- Abstinence from Sexual Intercourse:

- Avoid sexual intercourse for 3 days prior to the procedure.

- The duration of abstinence affects the quality of semen sample provided by the husband for egg fertilization.

6- Accompanying Person:

- Because the procedure is performed under anesthesia, you must have someone with you to assist you in getting home.

- Driving is prohibited for 24 hours after the procedure.

7- Bladder Emptying:

- It is best to empty your bladder immediately before the procedure to prevent bladder injury and to ensure the ovaries are clearly visible on the ultrasound during egg retrieval.

8- Psychological Comfort:

- Try to be relaxed.

- Get enough rest and sleep.

The egg retrieval procedure takes between 15-30 minutes.

The procedure is a daily case procedure, meaning the woman is kept under observation in the recovery area for two hours after the egg retrieval to recover from the anesthesia. After that, she can go home.

It is common for the woman to experience mild cramps in the abdomen after the procedure, or slight bloating and abdominal distention.

The two most important factors for the success of the egg retrieval procedure are:

- Taking the trigger shot at the exact time.

- Fasting before the procedure.

Dr Najeeb Layyous  F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist