Ovum Pick Up is a very important step in the IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) process. It means collecting mature eggs from a woman’s ovaries so they can be fertilized with sperm in the lab. This step is done after giving hormone injections to help the ovaries to produce more eggs. The procedure is safe and usually doesn’t take very long.
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi, a senior IVF specialist and experienced gynecologist and she has over 35 years of work in this field. She has helped more than 25,000 couples in their fertility journey. In this blog, we will explain everything about Ovum Pick Up. We will explain how it works, when it is done, what you can expect, and more.
What is Ovum Pick Up?
Ovum Pick Up is a simple medical process where eggs are collected from a woman’s ovaries. This step is a very important part of IVF treatment. Before this, the woman is given hormone injections for a few days to help them to grow more eggs. The doctor gently removes the eggs by using a thin needle when they are ready. This is done with the help of an ultrasound machine and the woman is given light anesthesia, so she doesn’t feel pain.
The collected eggs are then taken to the lab, where they are combined with sperm to try and form embryos. These embryos can later be placed in the woman’s uterus to help her to get pregnant. The whole procedure takes around 20 to 30 minutes and is done with proper care to keep the patient safe and comfortable.
When is Ovum Pick Up Done?
Ovum pick up is done when the eggs in a woman’s ovaries have grown to the right size and are fully mature. This usually happens after 8 to 12 days of taking hormone injections during an IVF cycle. These injections help the ovaries to produce more eggs than normal. The growth of the eggs is closely monitored through regular ultrasound scans and blood tests.
Once the eggs are ready then the doctor gives a special injection called a “trigger shot.” This helps the eggs to mature fully. The ovum pick up is scheduled around 34 to 36 hours after this injection. It is important to do the procedure at the correct time so the eggs are collected before they are released naturally from the body. Timing is very important in this step to make sure the best quality eggs are collected for fertilization.
How to Prepare for Ovum Pick Up?
If you want to get ready for ovum pick up then it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice closely. The preparation starts a few days before the procedure and helps to make sure that your eggs are ready and the process goes smoothly.
Here are some simple steps to prepare:
- Take all hormone injections as prescribed by your doctor.
- Go for regular ultrasounds and blood tests to check egg growth.
- Take the trigger shot exactly at the time advised by your doctor.
- Do not eat or drink anything 6–8 hours before the procedure.
- Wear loose and comfortable clothes on the day of the procedure.
- Arrange for someone to come with you and take you home afterward.
- Stay relaxed and your medical team will guide you through everything.
Step-by-Step Process of Ovum Pick Up
Ovum pick up is a short and careful procedure which is done by experienced doctors to collect mature eggs from a woman’s ovaries. It usually takes 20 to 30 minutes and is done in a fertility clinic. Here is a simple step-by-step explanation of how this process works:
Trigger Shot
You’ll receive a special injection called the “trigger shot” about 34-36 hours before the procedure. This helps the eggs to reach full maturity before collection.
Arrival at the Clinic
On the day of Ovum Pick Up, you will be asked to arrive at the clinic a few hours before the procedure. You should have an empty stomach, as advised by your doctor.
Mild Anesthesia
You will be given light anesthesia through an injection before starting the procedure. This helps you to stay relaxed and ensures you don’t feel pain during the process.
Egg Collection
The doctor uses a thin needle, which is attached to an ultrasound probe. The needle gently passes through the vaginal wall to reach the ovaries and collect the eggs from the follicles.
Transfer to Lab
The collected eggs are immediately sent to the laboratory. After this, embryologists will check their quality and prepare them for fertilization with sperm.
Recovery Time
After the procedure, you will rest for a short time at the clinic. Most women can go home the same day but they may feel a little tired or light cramping for a few hours.
Ovum Pick Up Side Effects
Ovum pick up is a safe and commonly done procedure, but it may have some mild side effects. Most of these are temporary and go away on their own within a day or two. Every woman’s body is different, so some may feel more symptoms than others
Here are some common side effects after Ovum Pick Up:
- Mild pain or cramping in the lower belly that is similar to period pain
- Light spotting or bleeding from the vagina for a day or two
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen
- Tiredness or dizziness due to anesthesia
- Nausea in some cases, which usually settles quickly
Final Words
Ovum pick up is an important step in the IVF process, especially for couples who are trying to become parents through infertility treatment. In this blog, we’ve explained what ovum pick up means, when it is done, how to prepare for it, the process, and the possible side effects. Understanding this procedure in simple terms can help you feel more confident and calm as you move forward in your treatment.
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi (Senior Infertility Specialist and Gynaecologist) has guided couples through this process with care. If you have questions about Ovum Pick Up, IVF, or any part of your fertility journey, we are here to support you. Call us at 95555 44421/22/23 or email at doctor@risaaivf.com for expert guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the ovum pick up procedure painful?
No, it is not painful as it is done under light anesthesia. You may feel mild cramping or bloating afterward, which goes away soon.
What happens after ovum pick up?
You will rest for a short time, and the eggs will be sent to the lab for fertilization. Most women can go home the same day.
How long after my ovum pickup will my periods arrive?
If no embryo transfer is done, your period may come within 10 to 14 days. If the transfer is done, you’ll wait for a pregnancy test first.
What to do after ovum pickup?
Take rest, stay hydrated, and avoid heavy work. Follow your doctor’s instructions and go for the next scheduled visit.