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Ultrasound
Utrasound is extensively used in monitoring
ovulation induction and in ART procedures. An ultrasound scan is a
method of examining the internal organs of the body by means of
high frequency sound waves. The reflection of the ultrasound waves
can be used to produce an image on a screen similar to an X-ray
image, but with the great advantage that the ultrasound is quite
harmless. Ultrasound is not commonly used as a check on normal
ovulation, but is mainly used to check the effects of hormonal
treatments.
There are two methods of ultrasound monitoring available: abdominal
ultrasound and transvaginal ultrasound examination.
Abdominal scan
For this scan, the ultrasound probe is moved over
the lubricated abdominal wall. For best results, the abdominal scan
requires a very full bladder, which pushes the bowel away from the
uterus, and at the same time acts as an excellent transmitter of
the ultrasound waves. However because of the need for a full
bladder, many women find the abdominal scan uncomfortable and
inconvenient.
Transvaginal scan
In this method, an ultrasound probe is placed
within the vagina. A full bladder is not required for this
procedure, making it more comfortable for the patient, because the
transvaginal probe is in close proximity to the organs being
examined. The ultrasound scan is often carried out at the time of
pelvic examination for cervical assessment. As well as providing
improved diagnosis, transvaginal ultrasound is preferred by
patients because it is so much more comfortable and convenient than
the abdominal scan. The transvaginal probe has revolutionised the
field of infertility treatment, because the introduction of high
frequency ultrasound directly into the vagina allows visualisation
of the cervix, uterine cavity, ovaries and fallopian tubes with
great clarity and detailed resolution.
One important use for transvaginal ultrasound is
the observation of developing ovarian follicles. Direct observation
of the ovaries can be useful in the diagnosis of polycistic ovary
syndrome (PCOS), which is characterised by multiple follicular
cysts on the surface of the ovary. This technique also allows for
the safe, convenient monitoring of ovulation induction, enabling
the physician to observe the development of ovarian follicles in
response to hormonal therapy.
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