Assisted Reproductive Technology

Oocyte retrieval can be performed though gynecologic ultrasonography, using needle puncture to retrieve oocyte. Under anesthesia, the needle is pierced through the vaginal wall under ultrasound guidance to get to the ovary and follicles. The fluid in the follicles is aspirated through the needle and the eggs detach from the follicle wall and are sucked out of the ovary. Patients should not feel any pain for the two vaginal punctures within this surgery, and are able to return home after anesthesia is gone. It is also possible to remain working on the second day.

ransvaginal oocyte retrieval is performed under general anesthesia and loss of consciousness, but patients can still breathe on their own, unlike complete anesthesia, which need help in maintaining airway.

1 hour

After oocyte retrieval, lie in bed anesthesia is gone. Patients should be able to return home in about 2 hours.

Since this is an invasive surgery, there are some unavoidable side effects. Common complications are internal abdominal bleeding (vascular puncture, hemostasis malfunction or follicle rupture bleeding), internal abdominal infection (transvaginal infection or pelvic cavity inflammation) or anesthesia complication (pulmonary embolism or anesthetic dose allergy). The occurrence rate is very low, since this is a safe surgery.

After oocyte retrieval, there might be slight abdominal distention, nausea due to anesthesia, headache or other discomfort, but should be recovered after 1 ~ 3 days of rest. Due to incision at ovary, hyperemia, swelling and straining are possible and should be recovered within 2 ~ 3 days if the condition is not serious. Total rest at home is highly recommended on the first day after the operation. Over exercise should be avoided to prevent wound bleeding and disruption.