What actually happens on egg retrieval day, and how painful is it?

Egg retrieval (also called oocyte pick-up) is usually done about 34–36 hours after the trigger injection. The timing is precise, so take the trigger exactly when told. You'll typically be asked to fast for some hours beforehand. Most centres use sedation or short anaesthesia, so you are asleep or very drowsy and don't feel the procedure. A thin needle guided by vaginal ultrasound is passed through the vaginal wall into each ovary to draw out fluid from the follicles. The procedure itself usually takes around 15–30 minutes, and you rest for an hour or two afterwards before going home with someone. Afterwards it's common to have cramping, bloating, mild spotting and tiredness for a day or two. Most women return to light activities the next day. Your doctor will advise on pain relief that is safe to take. Seek medical help urgently if you have severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, fever, fainting, vomiting, rapid weight gain, a very swollen abdomen, or difficulty breathing, as these can be signs of complications such as OHSS, bleeding or infection. It's also worth asking your centre beforehand who to contact out of hours.