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Egg Retrieval: Collection of the Eggs from the Donor
Egg retrieval is a procedure performed in our office under sedation to minimize discomfort. The procedure lasts about 15-30 minutes. A needle is passed through the vaginal wall under ultrasound guidance to aspirate each follicle. Risks for the procedure are rare, but include bleeding, infection, or damage to nearby organs. We monitor you for about an hour after the procedure. This visit lasts a total of 2-3 hours. Because of the sedation, you do need a ride home and we suggest you do not work that day.
Fertilization of Eggs in the Laboratory
The embryologist combines (inseminates) the donor eggs with sperm in the laboratory. The eggs are incubated and checked for fertilization the following day.
Embryo Transfer: Placement of the Embryos into the Uterus
The recipient and donor cycles must be synchronized so the recipient’s uterus is ready at the appropriate time. The recipient uses a combination of medications to prepare her uterine lining for implantation. The embryos are transferred within 5 days of the egg retrieval. The recipient is followed after the transfer until it is determined if pregnancy has occurred.
Follow Up Examination of the Egg Donor
We will call you the few days after the retrieval to see how you are recovering. About 1 week after the retrieval, we have you come in to the office for a follow up visit. You will be given your payment check at this time. We are available to see you as needed before or after for any care related to the egg donation.
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