Egg retrieval, also called OPU (Oocyte Pick-Up), is one of the most exciting and important milestones in your IVF journey.
Understanding how to prepare for the procedure and care for yourself afterward can help maximize comfort, safety, and your chances of success.
In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about preparation, the procedure itself, and post-OPU recovery.
How to Prepare Before Egg Retrieval (OPU)
Trigger Injection
Once your doctor confirms that you are ready for egg retrieval, the trigger injection should be administered 35–36 hours before the procedure. Administering the injection exactly at the scheduled time is crucial for optimal results.
Fasting for Sedation
The egg retrieval is performed under sedation (anesthesia). Therefore, no food or drink should be consumed from midnight the night before the procedure. Depending on your procedure time, this corresponds to approximately 6–8 hours of fasting.
Anesthesia Duration
The anesthesia typically lasts 15–20 minutes, allowing for a safe and comfortable procedure.
Sexual Activity During Egg Retrieval Preparation
Pool, Sea, and High Heat Environments
What to Keep in Mind on Your Egg Retrieval Day
Partner Guidelines
On egg retrieval day, a sperm sample will be collected. For best results, partners are advised to refrain from sexual activity for 3 days prior to maintain sperm quality.
After Egg Retrieval: Recovery Guidelines
Rest and Activity
Avoid driving for 24 hours and refrain from heavy physical activity, exercise, or lifting heavy objects.
Travel
Plan any travel at least 1 day after the procedure to ensure proper recovery.
Nutrition and Fluids
Unless instructed otherwise, resume your normal diet. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid gas-producing foods, alcohol, and smoking.
Hygiene and Health
A warm shower is safe after the procedure. Avoid swimming pools, the sea, and jacuzzis due to infection risk.
Medication
Take painkillers (e.g., paracetamol) and IVF support medications (e.g., progesterone) as prescribed.
Normal Symptoms
After the procedure, mild lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort, bloating, light spotting, temporary breast tenderness, fatigue, or mild cramping are normal. These symptoms usually improve within 1–2 days.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Contact your doctor promptly if you experience:
