Why is anesthesia necessary, and what type do you use?
When it comes to egg retrievals, trust me, anesthesia makes a world of difference! Without it, the process would be pretty uncomfortable. We primarily use a technique known as light general anesthesia, also referred to as “unconscious” sedation or total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA). It’s a quick way to put you to sleep and just as quick to wake you up, leaving you feeling refreshed and not groggy. Our patients really like this method because it’s well tolerated, and we’ve seen great success with it—our pregnancy rates are stellar! This same anesthesia is also applied for procedures like cyst aspirations and hysteroscopies. You’ll receive the medication through an IV line, which starts with a local anesthetic, and you’ll also breathe oxygen through a nasal cannula.
For male procedures, we use the same anesthesia technique, with local anesthetics administered beforehand. If you’re undergoing a percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA), it can be done with just local anesthesia if that’s the case. However, if there’s any uncertainty, it’s best to have sedation to avoid discomfort and delays in case a testicular sperm aspiration becomes necessary. Definitely chat with your doctor about your anesthesia options!
What should I know about eating and drinking prior to the procedure?
It’s crucial that you refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight before your procedure. This includes avoiding gum or hard candy, too!
What about my regular medications and supplements?
Make sure to discuss any prescription medications or supplements you take with your healthcare team before the anesthesia.
What items should I leave at home?
Please leave behind contact lenses, elastic bands from dental braces, and all jewelry except your wedding ring. This includes necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and any body piercing jewelry.
What should I expect when going home after the procedure?
You’ll need a responsible adult to take you home—no taxis alone! If both partners are having procedures, a third person must step in to drive. It’s also best to avoid driving for the rest of the day after your procedure. You might feel a bit loopy, making it unsafe to be behind the wheel or make any major decisions. Once you’re awake, you can sip water and eat once you get back home.
Who will be there to help me recover?
You’ll wake up in the operating room and then transition to the recovery room. The nurses there are fully qualified and available seven days a week to assist you.
Will I feel pain afterward?
Women might experience some cramping post-retrieval, but don’t worry—analgesic medication will be provided if needed. Most people find that a couple of acetaminophen (Tylenol) is usually sufficient. Men generally don’t experience pain due to the local anesthesia still working.
Will I have a breathing tube?
Not likely! We rarely use an endotracheal tube because our procedures are brief, and patients typically have good airways. If necessary, we can handle intubation.
What are the anesthesia risks?
For healthy individuals, the chance of a life-threatening complication is about one in 250,000. We keep you lightly anesthetized for safety, allowing us to quickly wake you up if any issues arise. Our team is well-trained in emergency protocols.
In summary, anesthesia is a vital part of ensuring a comfortable experience during procedures like egg retrieval. It’s important to follow pre-procedure guidelines, communicate about your medications, and arrange for someone to take you home afterward. For more tips on preparing for pregnancy, check out other posts like this one on nutrition during your first trimester. If you’re interested in home insemination options, BabyMaker offers great kits. For a comprehensive overview of intrauterine insemination, Healthline is an excellent resource.