Ultrasound

Role of Ultrasound during Infertility Diagnosis

Ultrasound plays a key role in diagnosing infertility by providing real-time images of the reproductive organs, allowing doctors to detect issues that may be affecting a couple’s ability to conceive.

Assessing Ovarian Function: Monitors follicle count and size, and checks for conditions like polycystic ovaries.
Evaluating the Uterus: Detects fibroids, polyps, or structural abnormalities affecting fertility.
Checking Endometrial Lining: Measures the thickness and quality of the uterine lining for implantation readiness.
Detecting Tubal Issues: Identifies fluid-filled tubes (hydrosalpinx) that may indicate blockage.
Monitoring Ovulation: Tracks follicular development and confirms ovulation timing.
Identifying Pelvic Conditions: Detects cysts, pelvic infections, or other abnormalities impacting fertility.

Role of Ultrasound during Infertility Treatments

In fertility treatments like IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) and IUI (Intrauterine Insemination), ultrasound plays a crucial role in monitoring and guiding each step.
Follicular Monitoring: Ultrasound helps track the growth and development of ovarian follicles (which contain eggs) during the stimulation phase.
Endometrial Assessment: It measures the thickness and condition of the uterine lining (endometrium) to ensure it’s ready for embryo implantation or sperm insemination.
Ovulation Timing: In IUI, ultrasound helps pinpoint the exact time of ovulation so the sperm can be introduced at the optimal moment.
Guiding Egg Retrieval: For IVF, ultrasound is used to guide the needle during the egg retrieval procedure.

Role of Ultrasound during Pregnancy

Confirming Pregnancy: Verifies the presence of a gestational sac and confirms intrauterine pregnancy.
Estimating Due Date: Helps determine gestational age and expected delivery date.
Monitoring Fetal Growth: Tracks the baby’s growth and development throughout pregnancy.
Checking Fetal Heartbeat: Confirms a healthy heartbeat and monitors it regularly.
Detecting Multiple Pregnancies: Identifies if the mother is carrying twins or more.
Assessing Placenta Position: Ensures the placenta is properly positioned and functioning.
Checking Amniotic Fluid Levels: Evaluates if fluid levels are within a healthy range.
Detecting Birth Defects: Screens for structural abnormalities in the fetus.
Guiding Procedures: Assists during prenatal tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling.
Monitoring High-Risk Pregnancies: Provides ongoing evaluation for conditions like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.