Donor Egg Retrieval 101

What to expect before, during, and after your donor egg retrieval

We’ve put together a Donor Egg Retrieval 101 guide to help you feel comfortable and informed. The egg retrieval is a relatively short and simple procedure and the last step in your egg donation journey.

Donor Egg Retrieval 101

Approximately 36 hours before the egg retrieval, you will receive a final injection (“trigger shot”) that matures your eggs and prepares them to be retrieved. The retrieval takes place at our partner clinic, Pacific Northwest Fertility. Once you are sedated, an ultrasound probe is inserted into the vagina along with a very thin needle that enters the ovaries and removes the eggs using suction. The egg retrieval takes approximately 20 minutes. Afterwards, you’ll briefly rest at the clinic, then be driven home by your support person. Plan to rest and relax the rest of the day, and talk to your care team about activity level and guidelines for returning to regular activities.

Donor Egg Retrieval Tip #1: Have a Trusted Support Person

Since you'll have anesthesia for the procedure, make sure you have a trusted adult to drive you home from the clinic. Having someone with you to care for you the rest of the day is ideal. If that's not an option, at least have someone you can call or who can check in to make sure you’re recovering well.

Donor Egg Retrieval Tip #2: Clear Your Schedule

Even if you feel fine after your retrieval, it’s important to rest: your body needs time to recover from any medical procedure. After you are driven home from the clinic, take the rest of the day off. If possible, arrange your work or classes so you don’t have any deadlines around the retrieval. Then, snuggle into your couch or bed, order takeout, watch a funny movie or read a good book - whatever feels restful to you!

Donor Egg Retrieval Tip #3: Be Prepared for Pain Management

In our experience, donors usually use a prescription strength pain medication the evening of the retrieval, then over the counter pain medications for the next day or two. Most donors say recovery is less painful than they expected. If you experience pain that 1) is not controlled by medication, 2) gets worse, or 3) is stronger than you expected, call your healthcare team to check in.

Donor Egg Retrieval Tip #4: Watch Out for OHSS

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) occurs when fluid from follicles leaks out, collecting in the abdomen and pelvis. OHSS is usually mild, but in rare cases it can become severe. It can occur days after an egg retrieval, and it’s important to know the signs and symptoms:

●       Significant abdominal swelling

●       Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

●       Sudden weight gain (2-3 lbs in under 24 hours)

●       Shortness of breath

If you experience any of these symptoms, call your healthcare team. You can also discuss OHSS with your doctor before the retrieval; they may recommend increasing your protein and electrolyte intake beforehand to reduce the risk.

Donor Egg Retrieval Tip #5: Be Prepared for Constipation

Constipation is common after egg retrievals, because of the medications and the decreased movement while resting. Constipation is uncomfortable, but can often be managed with stool softeners, hydration, or increased fiber. Talk to your team about ways to manage constipation; they may have additional suggestions for your care.

Donor Egg Retrieval Tip #6: Expect a Heavier Period than Normal

The extra hormones produced during the egg retrieval process can cause a heavier than normal period, usually 7-10 days after the procedure. The higher level of hormones and thicker uterine lining often lead to a heavier flow and more cramps.

Donor Egg Retrieval Tip #7: Remember, You’re Still Extra Fertile!

You are extremely fertile during the egg donation process because of the medications used. This extra fertility lasts until your next period after the retrieval. You are required to abstain from sexual intercourse with partners with sperm during the donation process. To avoid accidental pregnancy, continue to abstain or use condoms until your next period. You should also avoid any form of intercourse or inserting anything in the vagina for one week after your retrieval to prevent infection.

The egg retrieval is the last step in your egg donation journey. The retrieved eggs are frozen and stored to help intended parents build their families. Get ready to pamper yourself as you reflect on the wonderful gift you have given! And if you have more questions about the donor egg retrieval, we’re happy to help.

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Donor Egg IVF: The Embryo Transfer

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Donate Eggs as a Student