IVF Treatment - Egg Collection

i.  Operative procedures

Running an ART. Unit is a full time, seven day per week process. In order to maintain this service the IVFAustralia surgical team comprises a number of highly experienced gynaecologists who usually work to a roster so there are no interruptions to timely care.

Ultrasound directed egg collection is the usual method and many women still prefer a light general anaesthetic. However, it can also be done under local anaesthesia with sedation. Using a vaginal ultrasound probe, the follicles are identified and the needle guided into them. The fluid in the follicles is then aspirated (sucked out) and immediately examined by the scientists who use a microscope to find the egg/s. The eggs are then taken to the laboratory for insemination (IVF or ICSI).

Illustration by courtesy of Serono Australia

Remember - not all follicles contain an egg.
Prior to discharge from the Day Surgery/Hospital one of our staff visits the patient and gives written instructions for the next two weeks.

ii.  For men

On the day of egg collection the men will be asked to deliver a fresh sample of semen, (collected usually by masturbation), to the scientists at the IVFAustralia laboratory at the Day Surgery or Hospital within one hour of its collection. The sample should be kept at body temperature, not heated or cooled. If the collection of semen causes difficulties, we can organise alternative arrangements (eg. special condoms, sperm freezing etc.).

Surgical Sperm Collection (SSC) is a collective term used for surgical procedures that are available for men with tubal blockages and/or severe sperm production problems.