What should you know?
Follicle monitoring, or folliculometry, uses a series of ultrasound examinations to follow dominant follicle growth, signs of ovulation and endometrial development.
The first scan depends on cycle length and any fertility medication. A single scan may not confirm ovulation, so the interval between studies is individualized.
Common symptoms and signs
- Irregular cycles or uncertain ovulation
- Timing intercourse or insemination
- Monitoring ovulation-induction treatment
- PCOS or unexplained infertility assessment
Diagnosis and the role of ultrasound
Transvaginal ultrasound measures follicles in both ovaries and the endometrium. Follicle collapse, a corpus luteum and small free fluid can support that ovulation occurred.
- Dominant follicle size and growth
- Total follicle response
- Endometrial thickness and pattern
- Signs of ovulation and corpus luteum
Treatment and next steps
Results help the fertility clinician time attempts, adjust stimulation or plan further testing. Hormonal medication should never be changed without supervision.
When is urgent care needed?
- Severe bloating, pain, breathlessness or rapid weight gain during stimulation
- Sudden severe one-sided pain
- Positive pregnancy test with pain or bleeding