Fertility Ultrasound Scan
One in every 6 couples will seek help because of difficulty in trying to conceive a baby. Amongst couples who have proven normal fertility the highest conception rate per monthly cycle is 33% (1 in 3), occurring in the first month. The monthly rate then falls quickly, to about 5% (1 in 20).
Fertility is often a matter of chance. Many couples that have been trying to conceive for a year or two are normal, and will conceive without help. But for some there will be a real cause for their sub fertility and they will need to be investigated.
What scan should I have to help me conceive?
A pelvic ultrasound scan for ladies can be used as a first line investigation to see if there are any problems or abnormalities of the uterus and ovaries that could be preventing pregnancy occurring. Some disorders cannot be cured but fertility may be improved by treating these disorders. On the other hand some ladies will be found to be normal with a good chance of conceiving without treatment.
By undertaking several ultrasound scans during your monthly cycle it will be possible to ascertain if or when you ovulate and we will be able to tell you the best time to have intercourse. For ovulation monitoring you will need to come for a scan at least 3 times in your cycle.
Some ladies opt to have treatment to help them conceive. For these ladies KMI is able to work in conjunction with their fertility clinic either in the UK or abroad to provide a scan when needed.
Some fertility issues may be due to male problems and KMI is able to offer a testicular scan to assess if there are any problems. These may then be able to be treated to improve fertility.
How do I get the results?
After the examination the Ultrasonographer will explain the findings to you and if you have been referred by a UK doctor a copy of the results will be sent to them to ensure you get the correct treatment. We will give you a copy of the report as well.
At KMI we work in conjunction with many fertility clinics around the world by providing the ultrasound scans for your treatment at an affordable cost. After each examination we will give you a copy of your report to e-mail to your clinic.
Limitations of Ultrasound
Ultrasound does have its limitations which might mean we get limited views of your pelvic organs. These usually occur if: You have a high BMI, if your bladder is not empty or if you have a lot of gas in your abdomen.
Ultrasound can only diagnose abnormalities if they are present at the time of the scan. Abnormalities can develop at any time and whilst the Ultrasonographers at KMI will be looking for signs of early changes in your organs they cannot predict the future. If you have any concerns about this then please discuss them with the Ultrasonographer in the room prior to starting your scan.