How Long Does the IVF Egg Retrieval Process Take?
Dr. Lee Caperton • May 5, 2025
One of the most common questions we hear at Caperton Fertility Institute is, "How long does the egg retrieval process take during IVF?" It's a great question, and understanding the timeline can help reduce anxiety and empower you with clear expectations.
As a fertility specialist deeply committed to your journey, I want to walk you through each phase of the egg retrieval process and what you can expect.
Phase 1: Ovarian Stimulation (8–14 Days)
The egg retrieval process begins with ovarian stimulation. During this stage, you’ll take daily hormone injections designed to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs.
Throughout this phase, we monitor your response with regular ultrasounds and bloodwork to ensure your follicles are growing appropriately. Most patients are on stimulation medications for 8 to 14 days, depending on their individual response.
Phase 2: The Trigger Shot (36 Hours Before Retrieval)
Once your follicles reach the ideal size, you’ll receive a trigger shot. This hormone injection signals your body to prepare for ovulation and is carefully timed to ensure optimal egg maturity. The egg retrieval procedure is scheduled approximately 36 hours after this injection.
Phase 3: Egg Retrieval Procedure (Under 30 Minutes)
The egg retrieval itself is a brief outpatient procedure that typically takes less than 30 minutes. Performed under light sedation, we use ultrasound-guided technology to retrieve the eggs from your ovaries using a thin, specialized needle.
After the procedure, most patients go home within a few hours and resume light activity by the next day. Some experience mild cramping or bloating, but recovery is usually smooth.
IVF Egg Retrieval Timeline: 2 to 3 Weeks Total
From the start of ovarian stimulation to the day of egg retrieval, the process usually spans about 2 to 3 weeks. However, every patient is unique, and your care plan is personalized based on your body’s response and reproductive health.
Compassionate Care Every Step of the Way
At Caperton Fertility Institute in Albuquerque and El Paso, we combine state-of-the-art fertility treatment with personal, attentive care. Whether you’re starting your IVF journey or exploring fertility preservation, we’re here to support you with clarity, compassion, and expertise.
Have questions about IVF or egg retrieval? Schedule a consultation with our team. We're here to help you make informed decisions and feel confident at every stage.
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1. What is egg donation? Egg donation is the process by which a healthy woman donates her eggs to help another individual or couple conceive a child. These eggs may be fertilized through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and implanted into a recipient’s uterus or frozen for future use. 2. Who can become an egg donor? At Caperton Fertility Institute, we welcome egg donors who meet the following criteria: Ages 19–30 Physically and emotionally healthy Non-smoker, non-drug user Regular menstrual cycles No history of genetic or reproductive disorders Willing to undergo medical and psychological screening Able to commit to the time and responsibilities of the donation process 3. Why do people need egg donors? Egg donors help individuals and couples who are unable to conceive using their own eggs due to: Advanced maternal age Genetic conditions Medical treatments like chemotherapy LGBTQ+ family-building Unexplained infertility 4. Is egg donation safe? Yes. Egg donation is a common and generally safe medical process. It involves hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries and a minor outpatient procedure to retrieve the eggs. Risks are low but can include mild discomfort, bloating, or temporary side effects from medication. Serious complications are rare. 5. Will donating affect my fertility? No, egg donation does not impact your long-term fertility. Women are born with thousands of eggs, and donation uses only a small number that would naturally be lost in a normal cycle. 6. Is egg donation painful? Most donors report mild discomfort similar to menstrual cramps. The egg retrieval procedure is done under light sedation, so you won’t feel pain during the process. Recovery typically takes 1–2 days. 7. Will I be compensated? Yes. Caperton Fertility Institute offers generous, ethically guided compensation for your time, effort, and commitment. The amount is discussed during your initial consultation and complies with all legal and medical guidelines. 8. How long is the egg donation process? The process generally takes 6–10 weeks from initial screening to egg retrieval. It includes: Application and screening Medical and psychological evaluations Legal review Hormonal stimulation (approx. 10–14 days) Egg retrieval procedure 9. Can I still work or go to school during the donation process? Yes. Most of the process can be scheduled around your routine. However, you'll need to attend several clinic appointments and take medications on a strict schedule. During the last week, you'll need to reduce physical activity. 10. Will my identity be kept confidential? Absolutely. Donor confidentiality is strictly maintained. You can choose to remain anonymous, open, or semi-open, depending on your preferences and the recipient’s needs. 11. How do I get started? To begin the egg donor application process: Visit our Portal Fill out a questionnaire Our donor coordinator will contact you for next steps 12. Can I donate more than once? Yes, eligible donors can donate up to six times, as recommended by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Each cycle is spaced out for your health and safety.
Polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS ) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age. It impacts up to 1 in 10 women worldwide and is a leading cause of irregular cycles, ovulation problems, and infertility . At Caperton Fertility Institute , with fertility clinics in Albuquerque, NM, and El Paso, TX , we specialize in diagnosing and treating PCOS to help women restore their reproductive health and achieve pregnancy. What Is PCOS? PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that disrupts normal ovulation. Women with PCOS often produce higher levels of androgens (male hormones), which interfere with the release of eggs from the ovaries. Instead of regular ovulation, the ovaries may develop multiple small follicles, sometimes described as a “string of pearls” appearance on ultrasound. This condition can affect not only fertility but also long-term health , making early diagnosis and treatment essential. Common PCOS Symptoms Not all women experience PCOS in the same way, but common symptoms include: Irregular or absent menstrual cycles Difficulty ovulating or unpredictable fertile windows Excess hair growth on the face, chest, or back (hirsutism) Acne or oily skin Weight gain or difficulty losing weight Thinning hair on the scalp Darkened patches of skin (insulin resistance-related) If you are experiencing these symptoms, a fertility specialist in Albuquerque or El Paso can help confirm whether PCOS is the cause. How PCOS Affects Fertility PCOS is one of the leading causes of female infertility due to: Irregular ovulation – making it harder to predict fertile days Insulin resistance – common in women with PCOS, which worsens hormonal imbalance Hormonal disruptions – affecting egg quality and cycle regularity Inflammation – which may reduce implantation and embryo development The good news is that with proper PCOS treatment , many women can successfully conceive—either naturally or with fertility support like IUI or IVF . PCOS Fertility Treatment Options at Caperton Fertility Institute At Caperton Fertility Institute , we provide personalized fertility care for women with PCOS. Depending on your health and goals, treatment may include: Lifestyle & Medical Management Nutrition counseling and exercise support Medications to regulate menstrual cycles and lower androgen levels Ovulation Induction Letrozole or clomiphene to stimulate ovulation Careful ultrasound and lab monitoring to maximize success Advanced Fertility Treatments Intrauterine insemination (IUI) for couples who need additional support In vitro fertilization (IVF) for women who do not respond to ovulation medications or who need higher success rates Comprehensive PCOS Management Addressing metabolic health (insulin resistance, prediabetes, cholesterol) Supporting long-term wellness, not just fertility outcomes Living With PCOS: Finding Hope A diagnosis of PCOS can feel overwhelming, but it does not mean you cannot become pregnant. With the right treatment plan, women with PCOS have excellent chances of conception and healthy pregnancy . At Caperton Fertility Institute , we provide advanced reproductive technology, cutting-edge PCOS treatments, and compassionate care to help women build their families. Next Steps: PCOS Treatment in Albuquerque & El Paso If you have symptoms of PCOS or are struggling to conceive, our team can help. We combine expert medical care with personalized fertility plans designed to give you the best chance of success. 📍 Caperton Fertility Institute – Albuquerque, NM & El Paso, TX 📞 Call today or request a consultation online to learn more about PCOS and fertility treatment options .
Weight plays a critical role in reproductive health . Both overweight and underweight individuals may face challenges when trying to conceive, but for many patients struggling with obesity, even modest weight loss can significantly improve fertility outcomes. At Caperton Fertility Institute , with clinics in Albuquerque, NM, and El Paso, TX , we recognize the potential of new weight-loss therapies—such as GLP-1 receptor agonists—to support fertility and reproductive goals. How Weight Affects Fertility Excess body weight can affect fertility in multiple ways: Hormonal Imbalances – Obesity can disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis , leading to irregular menstrual cycles and ovulation problems. Insulin Resistance – Common in individuals with a higher BMI, insulin resistance can interfere with ovulation and increase the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) . Inflammation – Excess fat tissue produces inflammatory markers that may reduce egg quality, embryo development, and implantation success . Male Fertility – Elevated BMI in men is linked to lower testosterone, reduced sperm quality, and decreased libido. 👉 Even a 5–10% reduction in body weight can restore ovulation and improve the chances of natural conception or success with fertility treatments like IUI and IVF . What Are GLP-1 Agonists? GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are a class of medications originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. They mimic the natural GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. Common GLP-1 medications include: Semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) Liraglutide (Saxenda®) These medications have shown remarkable weight loss results in people with and without diabetes, making them a valuable tool for patients preparing for pregnancy. Benefits of GLP-1 Agonists for Fertility For patients struggling with obesity or PCOS, GLP-1 medications may support fertility by: Promoting sustainable weight loss Improving insulin sensitivity Helping regulate menstrual cycles Reducing symptoms of PCOS Lowering systemic inflammation As part of a preconception health plan , GLP-1 therapy may help create a healthier environment for conception and pregnancy. Considerations for Using GLP-1 Agonists in Fertility Treatment It’s important to use GLP-1 medications under the guidance of a fertility specialist . Key considerations include: Timing – GLP-1 agonists should generally be discontinued before trying to conceive , since safety in pregnancy has not yet been fully established. Medical Supervision – Safe and effective use requires oversight, often in combination with nutrition counseling and lifestyle changes . Individualized Plans – Not every patient is an ideal candidate. A comprehensive metabolic and fertility evaluation can help determine the best course of action. Weight Loss as a Path to Parenthood Weight loss isn’t just about numbers on the scale—it’s about optimizing your body for a healthy pregnancy . At Caperton Fertility Institute , we believe in a holistic, evidence-based approach to weight and fertility, combining: Advanced reproductive technologies (IUI, IVF, egg freezing) Metabolic health strategies The latest innovations like GLP-1 therapies Together, these tools can help patients achieve better fertility outcomes and increase their chances of bringing home a healthy baby. Next Steps: GLP-1 Agonists and Fertility Support If you are struggling with weight and fertility challenges or are interested in learning whether GLP-1 medications (Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Saxenda®) could play a role in your fertility journey, our team is here to help. 📍 Caperton Fertility Institute – Albuquerque, NM & El Paso, TX 📞 Call today or request your consultation online to explore personalized fertility solutions tailored to your health and family goals.