What to Expect on the Day of Egg Collection

Egg collection is an important step in your fertility treatment, and it's natural to feel a mix of anticipation and nerves. This video explains what to expect on the day, and how we support you before, during, and afterwards. The procedure takes place at King's Fertility, and is carried out under deep sedation, which means you will be relaxed and comfortable but not under general anaesthetic. You won't experience any pain during the procedure and you are monitored by a consultant anaesthetist throughout. A fine needle is guided into the ovarian follicles using a needle guide and ultrasound and the fluid is drained from the follicles. The embryologist then looks at the fluid under the microscope to identify if eggs have been retrieved. The procedure usually takes around fifteen to twenty minutes. Because you will have had sedation, you will need someone to remain with you for a full twenty-four hours following the procedure. During this time: please do not drive; sign any legal documents; or consume alcohol. We also encourage you to drink plenty of water throughout. It is normal to experience some mild cramping afterwards - similar to period-type discomfort. For pain relief, please use only paracetamol-based products, and avoid ibuprofen at this stage. If you have been prescribed antibiotics - please complete the full course as directed. Following your egg collection - the embryology team at King's will phone you to discuss the number of eggs collected. And, depending on your treatment type, will inform you of your fertilisation results. If you are having a fresh embryo transfer - they will provide a date and instructions, including when to begin your progesterone support medication. For fresh embryo transfer, you will be asked to begin progesterone support as directed by Dr Venki. If you are freezing your eggs or planning a frozen embryo transfer, you will typically stop all medication and expect a withdrawal bleed at this point. This can be an emotional time - and it is completely normal to have a range of feelings after the procedure. Please do not hesitate to contact me or the clinic if you need reassurance, or support. You can also visit the HFEA website, for independent information about egg freezing; success rates; and storage regulations. If you experience any concerns between appointments, you are always welcome to contact our team directly. Please keep us fully informed regarding any symptoms, and we will follow up with you as soon as possible.