WHAT: Egg retrieval is a technique used in in vitro fertilization (IVF) in order to remove eggs from the ovary of the female, enabling fertilization outside the body.

WHY: Under ultrasound guidance, your doctor will insert a needle through the vaginal wall and into an ovarian follicle. The other end of the needle is attached to a suction device. Once the follicle is entered, suction is gently applied to aspirate follicular fluid and with it, hopefully, cellular material including the egg.

HOW: Egg retrieval is a fairly rapid procedure. The length of the procedure depends on how many follicles are present.