Fertility Scan
A fertility scan plays a vital role in evaluating your reproductive health and ability to conceive. It examines the uterus, ovaries, and nearby structures to determine whether any gynaecological issues could affect natural conception or interfere with fertility treatments. Additionally, it offers insights into follicle activity as well as the estimated number of eggs.
Reasons for Undergoing a Fertility Scan
- Tracking follicle growth during assisted conception cycles
- Accurately determining ovulation timing
- Optimising embryo transfer scheduling
- Identifying the best time for fertilisation
- Diagnosing causes of pelvic pain, irregular menstruation or other reproductive concerns
- Assessing reproductive health before attempting conception
- Aiding in tailoring fertility treatments
What Can a Fertility Scan Detect?
At Sonoclinic, we use fertility scans to examine various problems that may affect fertility and the female reproductive system. These include:
- Follicle count and egg reserve
- Possible causes of infertility
- Uterine or ovarian conditions affecting reproductive health
- Endometrial thickness
- Ovarian irregularities
- Ovarian and pelvic cysts
- Ovarian tumours
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Uterine fibroids
- Fluid accumulation in the pelvic area
- Endometriosis
- Positioning of an IUD/IUS or coil
- Adenomyosis
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
- Uterine polyps
- Blocked fallopian tubes (hydrosalpinx)
What to Expect
The fertility ultrasound is conducted using a transvaginal scan, which provides detailed information on your reproductive health. This examination evaluates the uterus, endometrial thickness and structure, plus ovarian health, including follicle count and ovarian reserve.
During the procedure, you will be asked to lie flat on a bed, and a small amount of ultrasound gel will be applied to your skin. A handheld ultrasound probe will then be gently placed on the area and moved around to capture images. Both the ultrasound monitor and a patient screen will display these images, and your practitioner will instantly analyse the results.
The scan itself is painless and typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Once completed, you will have a detailed report of the findings, together with recommendations for further action if necessary.
Preparation Requirements
Since a fertility scan is done internally, a full bladder is not needed. If your bladder is full, you may be asked to empty it before the scan. We also recommend wearing clothing that allows for easy access to the pelvic area.