How Are Eggs Retrieved During In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)?

IVF involves a series of carefully planned medical steps designed to support fertilisation and early pregnancy. It is typically preceded by health screening and cycle monitoring, which allow doctors to understand the body’s natural rhythms before treatment begins.

The next steps are:

IVF begins with ovarian stimulation, where hormone medications are used to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the single egg released during a natural cycle. This increases the number of eggs available for fertilisation.

During stimulation, ultrasound scans and blood tests are used to monitor follicle growth and hormone levels. This monitoring helps doctors determine whether the ovaries are responding appropriately and identify the safest and most effective timing for egg retrieval.

Once the follicles have matured, eggs are collected through a minor medical procedure. Egg retrieval is precisely timed and performed under medical supervision to maximise egg quality while prioritising patient comfort and safety.

After retrieval, the eggs are fertilised with sperm in a laboratory setting. Fertilisation may occur through conventional IVF or other techniques, depending on individual circumstances.

If fertilisation is successful, one or more embryos are transferred into the uterus at the appropriate time. The goal is to support implantation and the early stages of pregnancy.

The IVF egg retrieval procedure is typically performed in a controlled clinical setting and usually takes a short amount of time. It is considered a routine part of IVF treatment when carried out by experienced fertility specialists.

Using ultrasound guidance, a fine needle is used to collect mature eggs from the ovaries. Specifically, transvaginal ultrasound guidance allows doctors to visualise the ovarian follicles and retrieve eggs accurately. Measures are taken throughout the process to prioritise patient comfort and safety.

Before egg retrieval, patients are given clear instructions to help them prepare for the procedure. This may include guidance on medications, fasting requirements and when to arrive at the clinic. In the days leading up to retrieval, ongoing monitoring helps doctors confirm that the timing is appropriate and that the ovaries have responded as expected. This preparation phase helps ensure the procedure is carried out smoothly and safely. Some common instructions are to:

The egg retrieval procedure usually only takes a short amount of time. It is often scheduled 36 hours after the patient has taken their ovarian stimulation medication and is performed under anaesthesia in order to minimise discomfort to the patient.

Once the patient has been sedated, a gynaecologist will carefully use ultrasound guidance to locate the ovarian follicles and retrieve the eggs using a fine needle. The procedure is closely monitored to ensure the patient’s safety.

After the eggs are successfully retrieved, they are stored and transported to the IVF laboratory for fertilisation. The procedure is closely monitored to ensure patient safety at all times.

Having the right support throughout the IVF process can make a meaningful difference. At the Health & Fertility Centre for Women, care is guided by a patient-centred approach that recognises the physical and emotional strain of fertility treatment.

Our clinical care is led by senior consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Kelly Loi, who has extensive experience in assisted reproductive treatments and fertility care. We aim to provide comprehensive guidance to help patients navigate their fertility journey with greater confidence, prioritising comfort, safety and clear communication at every stage.

If you are considering IVF or have faced challenges with fertility treatment in the past, our team is well-equipped to discuss your options. Arrange an assessment with us today and explore how careful monitoring and personalised care can support your next steps.