How are ovum collected?
The ovum can be collected through either of the following methods:
- Using a needle guided by ultrasound. This may be done under a general anesthetic or more usually a sedative.
- Laparoscopy, for which a general anesthetic is normally necessary.
Some women undergoing sterilization decide to donate ova. Since laparoscopy is frequently used for sterilization, no additional procedure is required to donate ova.
What are the medications commonly used?
Hormonal drugs may be prescribed for the following purposes:
- Suppression of the normal menstrual cycle with a nasal spray or an injection administered daily throughout the 28-day cycle.
- Stimulation of the growth and maturation of ova using daily injections or tablets that stimulate superovulation. They contain the hormone that naturally results in ova production in the ovaries.
When ultrasound scanning and hormone measurements indicate that a sufficient number of ova are maturing, a hormone injection is given to complete the maturing process. The injection must be timed carefully, ideally, 34-38 hours before collecting the ovum.
Some of the prescribed drugs are taken orally but most are usually administered through an injection. Usually, your fertility specialist can show you how to do these at home.
To know about the risks and possible side effects of ovum donation, consult your doctor.
Will the procedure be painful?
Following laparoscopy, there may be some abdominal pain similar to a painful period. The pain usually disappears in a short while.
