Transvaginal oocyte retrieval

Transvaginal oocyte retrieval (pronunciation: trans-vaj-uh-nuhl oh-uh-sahyt ree-tree-vuhl) is a medical procedure used in in vitro fertilization (IVF) to extract oocytes (or eggs) from the ovary of a woman.

Etymology

The term "transvaginal" is derived from the Latin words "trans" meaning "across" or "through", and "vagina" meaning "sheath". "Oocyte" is derived from the Greek words "oion" meaning "egg", and "kytos" meaning "cell". "Retrieval" is derived from the Old French word "retriever" meaning "to find again".

Procedure

The procedure involves the use of an ultrasound-guided needle that is inserted through the vagina and into the ovary. The needle is then used to aspirate the follicles in the ovaries, which contain the oocytes. The oocytes are then collected and prepared for fertilization.

Related Terms

In vitro fertilization: A process of fertilization where an egg is combined with sperm outside the body, in vitro ("in glass").
Oocyte: A cell in an ovary which may undergo meiotic division to form an ovum.
Ovary: An organ in the female reproductive system in which the ova or eggs are produced.
Vagina: The muscular tube leading from the external genitals to the cervix of the uterus in women and most female mammals.
Follicle: A small secretory cavity, sac, or gland, in particular.