Fertility Scan

Women’s Fertility Scan

A pelvic scan is a good place to start to check when investigating the uterus, ovaries and surrounding areas to establish if there is an underlying gynaecological problem which may hinder your chances of conceiving naturally or get in the way of your fertility treatment path.

An infertility scan is an important first test for any woman that may be experiencing difficulty in conceiving. Fertility scan will verify that the uterus and both ovaries are present.

There can be various signs of infertility in a woman, these may include:

• Chronic pelvic pain (not only during menstruation)
• Pain during sex
• Back Pain
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Irregular periods and spotting
• Bowel problems or pain with bowel movements

For fertility testing, the ultrasound scan is done with an ultrasound probe applied to your lower abdomen, you may also be offered a transvaginal (internal scan via the vagina) this would be done with a slender specialized wand. The scan should not be painful, although they can be slightly uncomfortable.

During infertility testing, ultrasound scans can provide information on the ovaries, endometrial lining and uterus. It can also help us estimate the ovulation date, measure endometrial thickness and follicle tracking.

The ultrasound scan works by using high-frequency sound waves to create an image of your internal organs.  During an abdominal ultrasound, a gel would be applied over your abdomen, the transducer will be gently moved over the abdomen. During a transvaginal ultrasound, the transducer is shaped like a slender wand and will be gently placed inside the vagina.

In preparation for your scan, you will be asked to wear loose clothing and a full bladder will be required (a full bladder pushes the intestines out of the way, so your reproductive organs are easier to see) you may be asked to drink 3-4 pints of water 1 hour before the scan.

The scan will usually take no more than 30 minutes. A full report will be compiled for your GP to follow up.