Pelvic Ultrasounds for IVF & Pelvic Scans

Pelvic Ultrasound

Evaluate Your Pelvic Organs and Structures Using an Ultrasound & Pelvic Scan

A pelvic ultrasound, also widely known as a pelvic scan, is a nonsurgical (noninvasive) diagnostic procedure that creates images to evaluate the organs and structures in the female pelvis. This examination provides a rapid view of key pelvic components, including the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.

At Netcare IVF I Fertility Centre, our team of consultant specialist radiologists typically performs pelvic ultrasounds as part of the initial evaluation for female patients. A pelvic sonogram usually takes around thirty minutes to complete, providing crucial information on the size, location and structure of key pelvic components. If you have any specific questions or need further details about the procedure, feel free to contact us.

Types of Pelvic Ultrasound

There are several types of pelvic ultrasounds commonly used:

Transabdominal Ultrasound: This is a non-invasive procedure where a transducer is placed on the abdomen to visualize the pelvic organs. It provides a general overview of the uterus and ovaries, helping to identify any structural abnormalities like fibroids or ovarian cysts. It’s often the first step in a pelvic scan, providing a broader view of the pelvic area.
Transvaginal Ultrasound: This method involves inserting a transducer into the vagina, allowing for closer and clearer images of the uterus and ovaries. It is particularly useful for assessing ovarian follicles, uterine lining, and any abnormalities that might affect fertility.

Infertility-Related Conditions Diagnosed Through Pelvic Ultrasound

Pelvic ultrasound is a valuable tool in diagnosing conditions that can significantly impact a woman’s ability to conceive, making ultrasound a crucial diagnostic tool in infertility assessments. Here are key conditions it can help identify:

Ovarian Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that can affect ovulation.
Polycystic Ovary
Syndrome (PCOS): Characterized by multiple cysts and hormonal imbalances. A pelvic scan is a key diagnostic criterion for PCOS.
Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can impact fertility.
Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and potential fertility issues.
Uterine Anomalies: Structural abnormalities of the uterus that can interfere with implantation.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An Infection that can lead to scarring and blockages affecting fertility.
Hydrosalpinx: Blocked fallopian tubes filled with fluid, which can hinder conception.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A reaction to fertility treatments leading to enlarged ovaries.
Endometrial Polyps: Growths in the uterine lining that can affect implantation.
Transvaginal Ultrasound: Assesses the structure of the ovaries and uterus. Can identify cysts, fibroids, and overall uterine health.
Follicular Monitoring: Tracks the development of ovarian follicles during the menstrual cycle to determine the optimal time for egg retrieval.

Role of Pelvic Ultrasound in IVF Process

Pelvic ultrasound plays a crucial role in optimizing IVF protocols and improving outcomes for patients undergoing fertility treatments.

Here are some key aspects of its importance:

Ovarian Assessment: Ultrasound is used to evaluate the ovaries, helping to assess their size, the number of follicles, and overall ovarian reserve. This information is critical for determining the appropriate stimulation protocol.
Monitoring Follicle Development: During ovarian stimulation, serial ultrasounds monitor follicle growth. This helps in timing the trigger injection for ovulation and optimizing the chances of successful egg retrieval.
Endometrial Evaluation: Ultrasound assesses the uterine lining (endometrium) to ensure it is adequately thick and receptive for embryo implantation. The endometrial pattern is also evaluated for optimal timing.
Guidance for Procedures: Transvaginal ultrasound is often used to guide egg retrieval and embryo transfer procedures, ensuring accuracy and reducing risks.
Identifying Anomalies: Ultrasound can detect uterine abnormalities (like fibroids or polyps) or ovarian cysts that may affect fertility or the IVF outcome.
Monitoring Early Pregnancy: After embryo transfer, ultrasound is used to confirm pregnancy and monitor early fetal development.

Next Steps Following a Pelvic Ultrasound

You can generally return to your daily activities right away, unless your specialist radiologist/sonographer advises otherwise. There have been no confirmed adverse effects from ultrasound exposure for clients. Your fertility specialist physician will discuss your ultrasound results with you. Depending on the pelvic ultrasound findings, we may recommend other evaluation tests, like a hysteroscopy or a laparoscopy with a dye test, to evaluate the health of your pelvic organs.

Choose Netcare IVF | Fertility Family, where everyone is welcome

At Netcare IVF | Fertility, we take great pride in offering a welcoming, transparent, compassionate, and secure environment for all our patients, both local and international. Our team of trusted, experienced fertility specialists ensures the highest quality of care. Located in the peaceful and secure Ijapo Estate in Akure, we provide a supportive space for all couples and individuals, regardless of age, infertility duration, marital status, past IVF experiences, disabilities, or any other personal factors. At Netcare IVF | Fertility, we treat your family as our own, offering a warm, inclusive environment where everyone is welcome.