US FOLLICULAR FOLLOWUP

Ultrasound follicular follow-up (US) is a form of imaging that does not harm the body and is used for examining the growth of ovarian follicles in women who are on fertility treatments or those who are being monitored through a natural cycle. Assesses the maturation of the follicles, ovulation, and the thickness of the endometrial layer. 

What is US Follicular Follow-Up? 

Ultrasound follicular monitoring is a procedure that employs high-pitched sound waves to capture images of the ovaries and evaluate the degree of the developing follicles. This process assists in calculating the ovulation period and the maturity of the endometrial layer for the prospective pregnancy. 

Types of US Follicular Follow-Up 

• Full bladder abdominal camera scan. 
• Examination of more transparent images from within the vagina is called internal examination of the vagina. 

• Measuring of ovaries for follicles, counting and measuring of their dimensions 
• Secretory phase 
• Merger of regulated structures 
• Indicators of ovulation (e.g. ruptured cyst, loose fluid in the pelvis) 

• Identifying optimal intervals for sexual intercourse aiming to fertilize the egg or for artificial insemination. 
• Reviewing how patients respond to medications that attempt to induce ovulation. 
• Identifying possible ovulation issues. 

Managing treatment schemes for IUI or IVF cycles. 

When and Who Needs to Take a US Follicular Follow-Up? 

Indications 

• Women on ovulation induction or assisted reproductive cycles. 
• Investigation of unexplained infertility. 
• Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. 
• Assessment of abnormal menstruation or absent menstruation with the ovaries not functioning. 
• Endometrial monitoring for successful implantation. 

Patient Demographics 

• Seeks actively to conceive by themselves or with a fertility doctor. 
• Have menstrual cycle irregularities or ovulatory cycle irregularities. 
• History of multiple miscarriages. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Radiation-free and non-invasive measures. 
• Advances accuracy in determining when ovulation occurs. 
• Monitors follicles throughout their growth stages. 
• Increases expected success rates in fertility procedures. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with US Follicular Follow-Up

• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) 
• Anovulatory cycle 
• Luteinized Unruptured Follicle Syndrome (LUFS) 
• Endometrial lesions 

• Adhere to advised scanning intervals. 
• Transabdominal scans require a full bladder. 
• Ensure loose-fit clothing to enable easy examination. 
• Inform the sonographer about each cycle's hormone or drug therapy. 

Pre-requisites 

• No restrictions on food prior to the exam. 
• Accurate evaluation may need patient to attend regular follow-up scans. 

Best Time to Take the US Follicular Follow-Up 

• Day of the cycle corresponding to day 9 through today 16 of the cycle dependent on individual responsiveness to treatment. 

Eligibility 

- Does not pose a safety risk for women undergoing fertility assessments 

Procedure for Taking a US Follicular Follow-Up 

• Transabdominal ultrasound: need to use a transducer. Ensure gel is placed over the abdomen. Probe should be moved in the lower area of the belly. 
• The patient needs to be relaxed so they are in a comfortable position printable doc file. 
• During the transvaginal ultrasound, the probe will be inserted into the vaginal canal in order to get a closer view. 
• Follicular size, number and endometrial thickness are measured by the sonographer. 
• The duration is around 10-20 minutes. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• Make sure that the schedule is adhered to for the scans to guarantee accurate results. 
• Do not exert too much mental pressure since it may interfere with ovulation.