: Clinicians use transvaginal ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve by measuring the antral follicle count (AFC). It is also essential for diagnosing pathologies such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and endometriomas.
Ultrasound Imaging in Reproductive Medicine - Springer Nature
Recent hardware and software breakthroughs have significantly enhanced diagnostic precision and procedural success rates:
: Color and pulsed Doppler techniques are used to assess vascularity in the ovaries and endometrium, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions like ovarian torsion via the "whirlpool" sign.
: Baseline scans evaluate the uterine lining (endometrium) for thickness and receptivity. It identifies structural issues like fibroids, polyps, or adenomyosis that could hinder implantation.
: Modern systems like the GE HealthCare Voluson series use automated tools (e.g., SonoAVC) to calculate follicle volumes, reducing human error and streamlining ovarian stimulation protocols.
Ultrasound serves as a primary tool for evaluating the three critical areas of female fertility: the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes.