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transvaginal ultrasound
Transvaginal ultrasound is the use of ultrasonic sound waves to examine the reproductive structures. The reflection of these waves are used to produce an image on a monitor so that your doctor can ‘see’ the form, status and position of the uterus (womb), fallopian tubes and ovaries. These images can also expose blockages or developmental abnormalities within the most important reproductive areas.
reason for the examination
Doctors make frequent use of transvaginal ultrasound during infertility testing. Aside from assessing the anatomy, they can also take various measurements of certain parts to accurately monitor changes in the course of the menstrual cycle. There is often the possibility of recording video images, so that doctors can consult with one another more productively.
If fertility medication is being used to stimulate ovulation, then this test will be performed on different days during the woman’s cycle, so that the size and number of the follicles can be measured and monitored. Checking the reaction to treatment is essential for determining whether the prescribed medication successfully stimulates the follicles and ovulation, as well as avoiding the growth of too many follicles.
Ultrasound can also be used to measure the thickness of the lining of the uterus to assess whether the lining is sufficiently prepared for a possible pregnancy.
the examination
The procedure normally takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Although this can be longer in IVF treatments, where there are generally many follicles that are developing and must be measured. It involves the introduction of a transducer (an oblong rod or probe) into the vagina. The transducer relays images of the uterus and ovaries to a computer monitor. The examination is generally not painful and is completely harmless, but may well be considered uncomfortable due to its intimate nature.
