Does IVF require major surgery?

No. Since the mid to late 1980s the vast majority of egg retrievals are performed using an ultrasound probe which is placed in the vagina. A small needle is placed through a guide attached to the probe. This allows for the aspiration of fluid-filled follicle cysts, each of which contain a single ripe egg.

The procedure is performed with sedation on an outpatient basis in a room designed specifically for this purpose. Embryo transfer is performed two days later by placing a small plastic catheter through the cervical opening to transfer the embryos during a simple pelvic exam.

Next Question | Back To FAQ