Egg Retrieval (TVA/OPU)

Egg Retrieval - Transvaginal Oocyte Aspiration (TVA) or Oocyte Pickup (OPU) is done by an ultrasound-guided transvaginal approach. We typically administer sedation anesthesia intravenously. TVA is generally well tolerated and safe and takes about 30 minutes. Recovery is usually for about an hour in a Barco lounge chair.


Complications such as extensive ovarian bleeding may occur after TVA, making emergency surgery necessary. This is very rare, occurring in less than half of one percent of all cases.


  • We retrieve eggs using direct ultrasound visualization. Before and during the procedure we administer intravenous pain relievers and anxiety medications. You will be aware and breathing on your own but heavily sedated.

  • The procedure is done 36 hours after administering hCG.

  • On the morning of your procedure, after consents are signed, we establish an intravenous line and administer the anesthesia. The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.

  • While the TVA is going on, husbands or male partners are typically collecting their semen samples which will be used later in the day after processing.

  • After the procedure, recovery typically takes 30-60 minutes in a Barco Lounge Chair. After this you are advised to go home and take the rest of the day off, taking it easy. You may take pain medication for discomfort, typically Tylenol 650-1000 mg every 4-6 hours as needed.

  • Complications are rare but include infection and ovarian bleeding after the procedure, as well as injury to blood vessels during the procedure. If severe abdominal or pelvic pain, persistent low blood pressure, or dizziness follow the procedure, hospitalization and possible emergency surgery may be required.

  • Post TVA instructions should be reviewed after the procedure.

Post TVA Patient Instructions