Egg Retrieval (OPU) – Oocyte Pick-Up Procedure

Egg retrieval, medically known as Oocyte Pick-Up (OPU), is a cornerstone of the Invitro Fertilization (IVF) process. It is the surgical procedure where mature follicles are aspirated from the ovaries to obtain the eggs necessary for fertilization in the laboratory. For many patients traveling to Istanbul for fertility treatment, understanding the nuances of this procedure helps alleviate anxiety and ensures better preparation for the journey ahead. What is the Egg Retrieval (OPU) Procedure? The OPU

procedure is a minor surgical intervention performed under light sedation or general anesthesia. It typically occurs after 8 to 14 days of controlled ovarian stimulation, during which the patient self-administers hormonal medications to encourage the growth of multiple follicles. Once the follicles reach an optimal size, a "trigger shot" of hCG or a GnRH agonist is administered to finalize egg maturation. The retrieval is precisely timed 34 to 36 hours after this injection. Steps of

the Oocyte Pick-Up Process The procedure is efficient and usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the number of follicles present. At our center in Turkey, we prioritize patient comfort and precision throughout the following steps: 1. Preparation and Anesthesia Patients are asked to fast (no food or water) for at least 6 hours prior to the procedure. Once in the procedure room, a specialized anesthesiologist administers sedation. This ensures the patient remains

comfortable and still, which is vital for the safety of the procedure. 2. Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration The fertility specialist uses a transvaginal ultrasound probe equipped with a fine, sterile needle. The needle is guided through the vaginal wall directly into the ovarian follicles. Using a gentle suction device, the follicular fluid—which contains the microscopic egg—is drawn into test tubes. 3. Immediate Laboratory Identification The collected fluid is immediately handed to the embryologist in the adjacent IVF

laboratory. Under a microscope, the embryologist identifies and isolates the oocytes. These eggs are then placed in a specialized culture

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