Preliminary Female Fertility Tests - Ultrasound Scanning

Ultrasound scanning is a type of preliminary female fertility test that is also useful in the process of fertility testing. Typically performed during an initial fertility consultation, an ultrasound can help to identify fertility problems related to pelvic and uterine health. As such, ultrasound scanning is an important diagnostic tool that can help to establish the appropriate course of infertility treatment.

Ultrasound Scanning Procedure

An ultrasound scan uses sound waves that travel through the body. These sound waves are then reflected back and converted into images that can be viewed on a screen for analysis. These images appear in a three-dimensional format so as to provide a comprehensive picture of the reproductive organs.

These 3D images provide information for your reproductive endocrinologist regarding your reproductive health and how this relates to fertility problems.

Ultrasound Scanning Results

During an ultrasound scan, a reproductive endocrinologist uses sound waves to assess your pelvic health. Pelvic health includes the development of the follicles (which are central to the release of an egg), as well as the thickness of the endometrial wall lining. Irregularities in the endometrial wall lining, including uterine fibroids, may be detected during this time.

Furthermore, ultrasound scanning provides an image of the uterus and ovaries and therefore evaluates uterine health. This analysis includes the monitoring of both egg development and egg release. In addition, uterine abnormalities, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS,) can be identified using this type of preliminary female infertility test.

Post-ovulation fertility irregularities can also be identified using an ultrasound scan. If such a problem is identified, your fertility specialist will talk to you concerning the appropriate method of infertility treatment.

Other Uses

In addition to being an important preliminary female infertility test, ultrasound scanning is used during pregnancy in order to monitor the development of the fetus. For example, an ultrasound scan will be detected at the onset of pregnancy as well as between weeks 11 and 14 of pregnancy to assess for chromosomal irregularities, such as Down’s syndrome. Another ultrasound scan is conducted at the 30-week stage of pregnancy in order to monitor the umbilical cord for any abnormalities.

Ultrasound scanning can also be a component of male fertility testing. In this case, an ultrasound is used in order to analyze sperm circulation as well as sperm storage so as to identify the cause of male fertility problems.