Follicular Aspiration
Follicular puncture is carried out as an outpatient procedure at our IVF center. In almost all cases, transvaginal ultrasound guided follicular aspiration is used to retrieve the egg cells. A vaginal probe is used to visualize the follicles. With the help of a guidance line on the display, an aspiration needle is introduced via the vagina straight into the follicle to aspirate the follicular fluid and the oocyte contained in it.
The intervention is performed while the woman is under twilight sleep. To this end, the anesthesiologist will use short-acting anesthesia (sedoanalgesia). The anesthesia medication is usually well tolerated. In rare cases, however, the following side effects may occur: nausea, vomiting, itchy nose and circulatory problems.
After the procedure, the woman may experience a pulling sensation in the abdomen. The sensitivity and tolerance towards pain can vary greatly from person to person and may also depend on a patient's mental and physical condition on that particular day. Normally, it is sufficient to take a common painkiller. Before the couple leaves the IVF center, the woman's blood pressure is measured again and her condition is checked. During the first 24 hours after the intervention, a responsible adult should be with the patient. She must not actively participate in road traffic. Given the risk of infection, we also advise against using a sauna or a swimming pool. Moreover, the couple should refrain from unprotected sexual intercourse.