Ovum Pick Up (OPU) is a crucial part of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). The release of an ovum comes from the ovaries during ovulation, which helps with fetal development by nourishing a blastocyst to develop into an embryo.
The common questions we get is: Is ovum pick up and egg retrieval the same thing?
Yes, they are the same thing.
Once our fertility specialist determines that your eggs are ready for retrieval, we will give an HCG trigger shot before the procedure to ensure full maturity.
The process will begin with ultrasound imaging to insert a thin needle through the vaginal wall into the ovarian follicles. After the extraction, the patient is observed as they recover from anesthesia.
In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of ovum pick up so you can prepare before your operation.
Preparation for Procedure
Before undergoing OPU, patients will receive ovarian stimulation treatments to stimulate the growth of a woman’s oocytes. Other medications may be used depending on the patient’s circumstances and needs.
Here’s how you can prepare before the procedure:
Patient Arrival and Registration
- Patient checks in at the front desk
- Verification of patient identity and confirmation of scheduled OPU
Pre-OPU Consultation
- Brief meeting with the IVF nurse of doctor
- Review of patient’s medical file and consent forms for the OPU
- Discussion of the OPU process and any last-minute questions
Pre-procedure Preparations
- Patient changes into appropriate clinic attire
- Pre-operative assessments (e.g., vital check, brief physical examination)
- Administration of pre-procedure medication if required
Patients are advised to avoid eating or drinking several hours before sedation.
The Ovum Pick Up Process
The patient will be given a mild sedative during the egg retrieval. Using an ultrasound probe, the doctor will gently insert a thin needle through the vaginal wall into the ovaries for egg collection. From one follicle to the next, we move the needle until we empty all the follicles in the ovary.
We transfer the eggs in test tubes and send them to our embryologist for further examination to achieve successful fertilization.
Anesthesia Administration
- We will introduce you to our anesthesiologist
- Our staff will administer the sedation or anesthesia prior to the procedure
Egg Retrieval
- Transfer to the procedure room
- Sterile setup and positioning under ultrasound guidance
- Aspiration of follicles to collect using a fine needle
Patients may experience minor side effects such as bloating or cramping after the operation but usually subside after a few days. This procedure does not typically leave any scars and is minimally invasive.
Immediate Post-OPU Care
After OPU, patients will be transferred to the recovery area so we can monitor their current situation as the anesthesia wears off. This is to assess any immediate complications that may occur such as bleeding or pain.
Post-OPU Consultation
- Debrief with the doctor about the procedure outcome
- Discussion on the number of eggs retrieved
- Instructions for post-procedure care, including signs of complications to watch for
Discharge Planning
- Final check by nursing staff
- Confirmation of follow-up appointments for embryo transfer or further treatment
- Patient receives discharge instructions and prescriptions if needed
Patient Discharge
- Patient is cleared to leave with an escort (due to anesthesia effects)
- Ensure the patient understands all follow-up care instructions.
Patients can take pain medications, use heat pack, or eat anti-inflammatory foods to manage discomfort. Drinking electrolyte-rich fluids like coconut water can also alleviate bloating.
How Fertility Specialist can Help
A skilled IVF specialist ensure the correct timing of hormone administration to guiding patients throughout the procedure. At Fertility Philippines, we ensure to provide a personalized treatment to maximize the chance of success.
Fertility treatment such as OPU and IVF treatment can be emotionally taxing. Support from loved ones and mental health professionals are vital during this time. With proper guidance and support, OPU helps patients take a significant step to overcoming infertility and grow a family.
Ready to begin your fertility journey? Contact us to schedule your appointment.