This procedure will allow the collection of matured eggs produced during an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle.

Why is this done?

The oocytes need to be collected for fertilization in conjunction with your IVF treatment.

How is this done?

The procedure is normally performed under a general anaesthetic. A drip is inserted into your arm. An examination is made under anaesthesia. The ovaries are visualised by transvaginal ultrasound and each follicle is punctured in turn to collect the egg. This procedure does not involve any abdominal incisions. The procedure itself takes approximately twenty minutes, but you can expect to be in theatre and recovery for a number of hours.

What should I do before the procedure?

Any investigations or consultations arranged at the preoperative consultation should have been completed. You should continue your regular medications, unless advised otherwise. Stop smoking. Should you develop an illness prior to your surgery, please contact our office immediately.

What should I do on the day of the procedure?

You should follow the instructions on the Final Instructions hand out. Unless otherwise specified, you should stop eating and drinking at the following times on the day of the surgery:

• at midnight for a morning procedure; or,

• at 6 am for an afternoon procedure.

You should continue all your usual medications, unless otherwise specified.

You should bring:

• toothbrush / paste / toiletries

• underwear

• sanitary pads

• all usual medications

• all imaging

What should I expect after the procedure?

When you wake from the anaesthetic, you will be in the recovery room. You should be able to leave that day. You should expect some pelvic discomfort. You will be given specific discharge medication if required, but you may use panadol or panadeine as required (one to two tablets every four hours up to a maximum of eight tablets per day).

After discharge from hospital, you should:

• eat and drink normally

• remain mobile

• use sanitary pads (not tampons) if required

• shower normally

You should not:

• have intercourse while bleeding

• undertake any unsupervised activity on the day of the procedure

If you are going to have an embry transfer, you will need to start your progesterone the following night.

You should be able to return to work the following day, but may require more time off work. You will be contacted by the Office to discuss the fertilization results and timing of any embryo transfers.

What are the complications of this procedure?

Every surgical procedure has associated risks. Complications include, but are not limited to:

• the anaesthetic

• the surgery

  • injuries to internal organs or blood vessels, requiring further surgery, including a cut on your abdomen (laparotomy), blood transfusion or longer admission;

• the recovery period

  • infections of the bladder, pelvis (specifically the ovaries and / or tubes) abdomen or lungs; blood clots that may form in the leg or pelvis and travel to the lung; unpredictable wound healing; variable postoperative pain and recovery; nausea, vomiting or pain necessitating overnight admission

Any specific risks and complications will be discussed prior to the procedure

What if I have any problems?

You should notify the following problems:

• fever or feeling unwell

• offensive vaginal discharge or heavy bleeding

• intractable nausea or vomiting

• inability to empty your bladder or bowels

• severe pain