Q
How long does the egg retrieval process take?
A
The egg retrieval surgery usually takes just over ten minutes, making it a relatively quick procedure. The duration of the surgery depends on the number of follicles. Additionally, the accessibility of the ovaries will also determine how long the surgery takes.
“Accessibility” refers to how far the ovaries are from the ultrasound probe, whether there are special conditions such as higher ovarian positions, larger uterine fibroids, or severe adenomyosis present.
Q
Will egg retrieval damage my ovaries?
A
Current data indicates that egg retrieval does not harm the ovaries. Many women have undergone multiple ovulation inductions and egg retrievals, and follow-up data has not shown any impact on ovarian function or long-term health. However, egg retrieval is an invasive procedure, and there is a small risk of complications such as bleeding or infection that may require corresponding treatment.
Nonetheless, we currently lack a substantial amount of long-term data, as IVF technology has only been successfully applied for nearly 50 years. The world’s first test-tube baby was born in 1978, and the first test-tube baby in mainland China was born at Peking University Third Hospital in 1988.
Q
Is it true that one egg is retrieved from each follicle?
A
No. During the ovulation induction process, the size and number of follicles are monitored via ultrasound, and once a certain level is reached, egg retrieval is scheduled. The retrieval procedure involves suctioning all follicular fluid under ultrasound guidance, and then looking for eggs under a microscope. The “number of eggs retrieved” is the total number of eggs found under the microscope. However, not every follicle contains a mature egg, just like not every peanut shell contains a peanut.
“Learn Medicine Easily, Joyfully Gain Knowledge” Light Science Popularization
Collection of Selected Works from the Recruitment Activity
Poster Production | Publicity Center Li Zunyi, Chen Xiaoyue (Intern)
Cover | Publicity Center Chen Xiaoyue (Intern)
Text | Department of Reproductive Medicine He Yilei (Attending Physician)
Review | Department of Reproductive Medicine Yang Shuo (Chief Physician)
Editing | Publicity Center Chen Xiaoyue (Intern), Zhang Xuanye
