Egg retrieval is the procedure in which eggs are collected from the ovarian follicles, usually using a fine needle passed through the vaginal wall under ultrasound guidance, while the woman is under sedation or light anaesthesia. It is timed a set number of hours after the trigger injection, before natural ovulation would occur. The number of eggs collected varies between individuals and cycles and depends on factors such as ovarian reserve, age, and response to stimulation; not every follicle contains a usable egg, and not every egg collected is mature. After retrieval, eggs are assessed in the laboratory and, where appropriate, combined with sperm for fertilisation. Mild cramping, spotting or bloating are common afterwards, and the clinical team advises on what to expect and when to seek review.
Also known as: oocyte pickup, OPU, ovum pickup, egg collection, follicular aspiration
Related India guides
Sources
- ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.