HI Paula,

at Pivet in Perth, they don't do general anaesthetic, they use a "sedative" but the effect is exactly the same, minus the tube down the throat to maintain airway. They put a needle in the hand, I don't even remember going off to sleep, the next minute (it seems) I'm waking up in the recovery room !! I'm not sure the name of the anaesthetic but it definately puts you to sleep. The recovery process is pretty quick but you aren't allowed to drive for 24 hours. I think with GA they get you to take even more care of yourself.

I didn't have any pain or bleeding afterwards, but then I wasn't poked around very much - they were only able to collect 1 egg (which worked for us - we were very fortunate).

Hope it all goes well !

Sharon