Sonography Follicular Monitoring at Radiant Fertility & IVF Centre is a key part of the fertility treatment process, especially for couples undergoing assisted reproductive technologies like IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) or IVF (In Vitro Fertilization). The purpose of follicular monitoring is to track the growth and development of the follicles in the ovaries to ensure proper ovulation timing.
What is Follicular Monitoring?
Follicular monitoring involves a series of ultrasound scans to observe the development of ovarian follicles (the sacs in which eggs grow) during a woman’s menstrual cycle. This process helps to track the number, size, and maturity of the follicles and aids in determining the best time for interventions like insemination or egg retrieval.
Early Monitoring (Day 2-5 of Cycle):
On the 2nd or 3rd day of the menstrual cycle, a baseline ultrasound (often including a transvaginal ultrasound) is performed to check the condition of the ovaries, uterus, and any pre-existing cysts.
This helps assess the ovarian reserve and decide whether hormonal stimulation is needed.
Stimulation Phase (Day 7-12 of Cycle):
If the woman is undergoing ovulation induction (e.g., with Clomid, gonadotropins, etc.), follicular growth is monitored every 2-3 days after starting medication.
The sonography tracks the size of the growing follicles, which should ideally be 18-24mm in diameter for ovulation to occur.
Monitoring for Ovulation:
The final scan helps determine the most appropriate time for ovulation or egg retrieval. Once a dominant follicle is seen to reach the optimal size, the doctor can trigger ovulation using medication (e.g., hCG injection).
Assessing Luteal Phase:
After ovulation or egg retrieval, a follow-up scan may be conducted to assess the luteal phase and confirm the presence of a corpus luteum (the structure formed after ovulation), which produces progesterone to support pregnancy.
Benefits of Follicular Monitoring:
Optimized Treatment: Allows the fertility specialist to adjust treatments for the best chances of success.
Precise Timing: Ensures the best possible timing for interventions like IUI or IVF.
Minimized Risks: Helps avoid overstimulation or under-stimulation of the ovaries by monitoring the response to fertility medications.
Personalized Care: Provides a clear understanding of the woman's cycle, leading to better-tailored treatments.
Procedure at Radiant Fertility & IVF Centre:
At Radiant Fertility & IVF Centre, follicular monitoring is done under the supervision of experienced fertility specialists. Here's a typical flow:
Initial Consultation: Discuss your health history and fertility goals.
Monitoring Sessions: Regular ultrasounds and blood tests are performed as part of the treatment protocol.
Adjustments: The fertility doctor adjusts medications based on ultrasound results to optimize follicular growth and prepare for the next steps (IUI, IVF, or natural cycle monitoring).
Follow-Up Care: After the monitoring, your doctor will guide you regarding the next steps based on the ultrasound findings.
When is Follicular Monitoring Used?
For women undergoing ovulation induction.
For women undergoing IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) to identify the optimal time for insemination.
For women undergoing IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) to monitor egg development before egg retrieval.
For women trying to conceive naturally but need help in understanding the ovulation cycle.
