Pelvic ultrasound in reproductive medicine: importance, types and indications

The role of gynecological ultrasound in reproductive medicine

Gynecological ultrasound is one of the main diagnostic methods in reproductive medicine. It allows for the assessment of the female reproductive system, identification of possible causes of infertility, monitoring the progress of pregnancy, and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment. This method is safe, affordable, and used for both preventive examinations and in the presence of abdominal pain, menstrual irregularities, or other symptoms affecting reproductive health.

Types of pelvic ultrasound in reproductive medicine

In clinical practice, ultrasound examination of the internal genital organs is performed in two main ways: by transabdominal and transvaginal approaches.

Transabdominal ultrasound

This method is used for primary diagnosis and provides a general image of the pelvic organs. The transducer is applied to the anterior abdominal wall of the patient. Preparation includes moderate filling of the bladder for better visualization.

Transabdominal ultrasound allows for the evaluation of

• the structure and size of the uterus;
• the patency of the fallopian tubes;
• the condition of the ovaries;
• the presence of pathological formations.

Transvaginal ultrasound

This method provides a more detailed image of the pelvic organs and is often used in reproductive medicine. The analysis is performed by inserting a special thin transducer into the vagina.

Advantages of transvaginal ultrasound:

• High diagnostic accuracy;
• The ability to study the structure of the ovaries and endometrium in detail;
• Monitoring follicle maturation for IVF;
• Evaluation of endometrial thickness and blood circulation in the endometrium.

What is the purpose of gynecological ultrasound in reproductive medicine?

Ultrasound diagnosis allows for identifying the causes of infertility and monitoring the progress of pregnancy, as well as diagnosing and monitoring the dynamics of various pathologies of the female reproductive system.

Assessment of follicular reserve and ovulation

Transvaginal ultrasound is actively used to monitor the follicular apparatus of the ovaries in women who are considering pregnancy. This method allows for

• Determining follicular reserve;
• Monitoring the growth of the dominant follicle;
• Evaluating ovulation in the natural cycle or as part of a stimulation program.

Diagnosis of inflammatory diseases

Gynecological ultrasound can detect inflammatory processes that may hinder conception:

• Endometritis - inflammation of the inner layer of the uterus;
• Salpingophoritis - inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries;
• The presence of fluid in the abdominal cavity is a possible sign of inflammation or adhesions.

Detection of pathologies affecting reproductive function

Ultrasound can be used to diagnose structural changes in the pelvic organs:

• Uterine fibroids;
• Endometriosis;
• Ovarian cysts;
• Endometrial polyps;
• Endometrial hyperplasia.

Monitoring for IVF

In assisted reproductive programs (IVF, ICSI), ultrasound plays a crucial role for:

• Monitoring the ovarian response to hormonal stimulation;
• Controlling the growth of follicles before retrieval;
• Evaluating the condition of the endometrium before embryo transfer;
• Determining the presence of fluid in the pelvis, which may indicate hyperstimulation;
• Monitoring the effectiveness of IVF with egg donation programs;
• Tracking endometrial preparation before IVF with double donation;
• Assessing embryo implantation quality;
• Detecting possible complications early in pregnancy after IVF.

Ultrasound during pregnancy

Gynecological ultrasound is used to confirm pregnancy, determine gestational age, and assess embryo development. During pregnancy, it will be performed as part of prenatal screening to monitor the condition of the fetus and placenta.

Where to have a pelvic ultrasound?

The "Natuvitro" clinic offers ultrasound diagnosis of the reproductive system to assess ovarian reserve and obtain conclusions from an experienced specialist. The doctor will choose the optimal day of the cycle for the examination, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient and her symptoms.

How to register for an ultrasound?

You can make an appointment for an examination in the "Contacts" section of the clinic's website by filling out the appointment form. The specialists at "Natuvitro" will provide professional support at all stages of diagnosis and treatment, helping each woman on her path to motherhood.