The process of IVF starts with Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. In simple words, the patient is started on hormonal injections for growing her follicles. Once the follicles are ready egg retrieval is planned.
‌Egg retrieval or Ovum pick up is a procedure where the follicular fluid is aspirated with a fine needle. This fluid contains eggs. The procedure is done under sonographic guidance under General Anesthesia. The actual timing required for the procedure is 20 -30 minutes. It is a daycare procedure. The eggs thus collected are subjected to IVF/ICSI to make embryos.