- MEDICINE ATHENS MED4WOMAN ATHENS
- MEDICINE VOLOS MED4WOMAN VOLOS
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Obstetrician Gynaecologist
Doctor of Medicine, University of Athens Medical School
Panagiotis Polyzos, Gynaecologist Obstetrician, is active at the Institute of Life - IVF Unit of Iaso Maternity Hospital.
Oocyte retrieval is a part of the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process, and essentially, it is exactly what the term describes: the procedure of collecting eggs from a woman’s ovaries. It is a common procedure and technique performed in women who are beginning their efforts to achieve pregnancy.
Oocyte retrieval is performed following a scheduled appointment with the gynecologist, under surgical conditions. An ultrasound scan is conducted so that the doctor can carry out the procedure transvaginally. The ovarian follicles are aspirated and collected for the embryologist to receive. At this stage, the embryologist isolates the eggs and places them into suitable containers.
Typically, the duration of the procedure does not exceed 30 minutes, and the total stay in the clinic is approximately one hour. The positive aspect is that no special preparation is required beforehand.
Oocyte retrieval is part of the in vitro fertilization process and is performed so that the gynecologist can collect eggs from the ovaries. On the day of the procedure, the woman must fast from the previous night and avoid food, water, coffee, and other specific items, as advised by her gynecologist .
The oocyte retrieval procedure can be considered a very minor surgical intervention and is performed under conscious sedation. Unfortunately, the level of pain during this procedure is quite significant, and therefore, oocyte retrieval without sedation is not performed. However, the sedation used is administered in a controlled dosage—just enough to ensure that the procedure is as painless and comfortable for you as possible.
In the laboratory, the natural process is followed as closely as possible; therefore, oocyte retrieval is carried out shortly before ovulation. Specifically, the procedure is typically performed on the 12th–14th day of the menstrual cycle.
The number of eggs retrieved varies in each case and cannot be predetermined. For this reason, it is best to consult with your gynecologist, who will examine you and provide detailed information tailored to your situation. Dr. Polyzos has extensive experience in the field of in vitro fertilization and oocyte retrieval. For more information, please contact us.
Oocyte retrieval is generally considered a very safe procedure and painless, as it is performed under sedation. However, there are a few very rare complications or side effects, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome as well as the potential risks associated with any type of anesthesia.
Overall, such adverse events are not commonly observed and remain quite rare. Nevertheless, your doctor will always inform you thoroughly about any possible risks or side effects that may be associated with each step of the in vitro fertilization.
This varies from case to case. Most of the time, menstruation occurs within the normal timeframe following oocyte retrieval. However, in any situation, it is advisable to communicate with your specialist doctor, who will provide you with the appropriate guidance. Even in the case of a delay, your doctor will be fully aware of your medical circumstances and will be able to advise you properly.
Regarding pre–oocyte retrieval preparation, we have already explained in detail which foods and beverages should be avoided. In contrast, after the procedure, your diet should definitely include proteins such as fish, chicken, meat, eggs, etc. What you should be careful about is salt intake, and you should ideally limit water consumption to a maximum of 1 liter per day — something particularly important when a high number of eggs has been retrieved.
In any case, your doctor will communicate with you to provide detailed guidance on the appropriate diet to follow, especially if you have specific dietary needs such as allergies or if you are vegan, etc.
Sexual intercourse does not generally cause any issues up until one day before the procedure; however, it is advisable to reduce sexual activity in the final days beforehand. On the first day after the procedure, it is best to keep activities as calm and relaxed as possible, including work-related tasks. It is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse and intense physical exertion. In every case, your doctor will provide proper guidance regarding sexual activity before and after the procedure. For more information, contact the experienced gynecologist specializing in in vitro fertilization, Dr. Panagiotis Polyzos.
Oocyte retrieval is relatively affordable. However, the doctor must first evaluate your individual case to provide you with accurate information on the cost of the procedure and the relevant pricing details. For more information, please contact us so we can address any questions you may have.
What is certain is that we are all working together in this effort, sharing a common goal: to ensure a successful outcome at every stage of the process.
