Egg freezing and natural conception aren't opposites. Your age, ovarian reserve, and timeline determine which path fits. Here's a decision framework.
Egg retrieval is a short procedure, usually under light sedation, that collects the eggs your ovaries have matured during a treatment cycle. Most of the work happens in the days before, so knowing the plan for the day helps it go smoothly. Here is what to prepare, what to ask, and how to follow up.
Confirm the exact time of your trigger shot and the retrieval, since the timing between them is precise and matters. Follow the fasting instructions you are given, and arrange a ride home, since you cannot drive after sedation.
Ask which medications to take or pause that morning, and pack comfortable clothes and your clinic paperwork. Clear your schedule for the rest of the day to rest.
The procedure itself is usually quick, and sedation means most people remember little of it. Afterward you will rest in a recovery area until you are ready to leave with your ride. Ask your questions before, since you may be drowsy after.
Take notes as the doctor talks, record the meeting (with their permission!) in myStoria, or add a quick voice note to myStoria as soon as possible afterward so that you are not relying on memory alone.
Before you leave the clinic, ask for copies of anything from the visit, like lab results, assessments, or referrals, and upload them to myStoria to keep your history complete. (If you aren't able to get copies, connect with Concierge and we can help you source them!)
Plan to rest for the day, since some cramping, bloating, and light spotting are common. Note what the team tells you before you leave, including when to expect news about fertilization.
Contact your clinic promptly for severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever, difficulty breathing, or rapid bloating or weight gain, which can signal ovarian hyperstimulation and needs prompt review.
myStoria keeps your trigger timing, medications, and questions in one private place, so the day is organized and the details you were given are easy to find afterward. Everything stays with you between visits, so each step builds on the last. When you want to talk something through, you can schedule a video consult in advance with a member of our team, several of whom are nurses.
This page offers general information to help you prepare for and follow up on your egg retrieval. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever, trouble breathing, or rapid bloating or weight gain afterward, seek care promptly, as these can signal ovarian hyperstimulation. myStoria video consults are scheduled in advance.