IVF Egg Retrieval Procedure
Step.1
Ovulation Induction
Menstrual cycle Day 1–Day 3
Begin using ovulation stimulation injections or oral medications.
Your level of compliance affects egg retrieval outcomes:
1.Strictly follow the doctor’s instructions for medication.
2.Drink over 2000 c.c. of water daily.
On the day of visit, the doctor will determine whether to arrange a blood test and/or transvaginal ultrasound.
Step.2
Follicle Maturity Monitoring
Menstrual cycle Day 6–Day 12 (approximately 3 follow-up visits)
Return to the clinic at scheduled times to monitor hormone levels through blood tests and observe follicle growth via transvaginal ultrasound. This helps determine follicle maturity and select the optimal day for retrieval.
※Note: Avoid intense physical activity approximately one week into treatment to prevent ovarian torsion.
Step.3
Egg Retrieval
Menstrual cycle Day 12–Day 15
34–36 hours before retrieval, it is crucial to administer the trigger shot at the scheduled time (may be in the early morning)。The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and guided by transvaginal ultrasound. The duration depends on the number of eggs retrieved. You will be observed for 1–2 hours afterward and can go home the same day, but rest is required.
※Note: Your next menstrual cycle will likely start about one week after retrieval.
On the day of egg retrieval, the male partner should collect a semen sample via masturbation in a sterile container. If collected at home, bring the sample to the clinic at room temperature within 1 hour. Alternatively, use the clinic’s collection room. (To ensure high-quality sperm, the male should avoid smoking, alcohol, infection, or excessive fatigue, and abstain for 2 days before collection.)
Step.4
In Vitro Fertilization
The retrieved mature eggs are placed in a culture dish and combined with processed sperm to allow natural fertilization. If sperm quality is poor, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be used to improve fertilization rates.
Step.5
Embryo Culture
When the fertilized egg divides into 2–8 cells, it is called an embryo. By Day 5–7, it becomes a blastocyst. These will either be frozen or transferred fresh.
Step.6
Frozen Embryo Transfer Cycle
Menstrual cycle Day 1–Day 3
Start oral medication to thicken the endometrium.
Menstrual cycle Day 8–Day 14
Ultrasound and blood tests to monitor endometrial thickness (approximately 2–3 follow-up visits).
Transfer Criteria:
1. Endometrial thickness > 0.8 cm
2. Hormone levels meet required standards
If criteria are met, begin progesterone (luteal phase) support.
Menstrual cycle Day 18–Day 20
Embryo thawing and transfer
2 weeks after transfer
Pregnancy test
