Ultrasound
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Center for Reproductive Health
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is one of the most essential tools in fertility testing and treatment. At the Center for Reproductive Health in Spokane, we use advanced ultrasound technology to assess reproductive health and guide fertility treatments with precision. Whether you’re beginning your fertility journey or are in the midst of treatment, ultrasound imaging provides invaluable insights into your reproductive system.
What is a Fertility Ultrasound?
A fertility ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed images of the reproductive organs. For women, ultrasounds help visualize the ovaries, uterus, and surrounding structures, while in men, they can assist in evaluating testicular health. Ultrasounds play a key role in diagnosing fertility issues and tracking the progress of treatments like ovulation induction or IVF.
At our Spokane clinic, we perform both transvaginal and abdominal ultrasounds, depending on the specific assessment or treatment being performed.
Types of Fertility Ultrasounds We Offer
1. Baseline Ultrasound
A baseline ultrasound is typically performed at the beginning of the menstrual cycle to evaluate the uterus and ovaries. This scan helps us check for any abnormalities, such as ovarian cysts or fibroids, and assess the overall health of your reproductive organs.
2. Antral Follicle Count (AFC)
The antral follicle count is a type of transvaginal ultrasound that measures the number of small follicles in the ovaries. This test is used to evaluate ovarian reserve—an important factor in determining fertility potential. A higher number of antral follicles generally indicates a greater number of eggs available for ovulation.
3. Ovulation Monitoring
Ultrasound is crucial for monitoring ovulation, especially in treatments like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF). It allows us to track the growth of follicles and pinpoint the optimal time for egg retrieval or insemination. Ultrasounds can confirm ovulation or alert us if adjustments are needed for fertility medications.
4. Pelvic Ultrasound for Uterine Health
A pelvic ultrasound is used to examine the structure of the uterus and detect any conditions that might interfere with implantation or pregnancy, such as fibroids, polyps, or a misshapen uterus. By identifying these issues early, we can take steps to address them before moving forward with fertility treatments.
5. Pregnancy Ultrasound
After a successful fertility treatment, ultrasounds are used to confirm pregnancy and monitor its early stages. An ultrasound can detect the gestational sac, fetal heartbeat, and confirm the proper implantation of the embryo within the uterus.
Why Ultrasound is Important for Fertility
Ultrasound is a critical component of fertility evaluation and treatment because it allows us to see what’s happening inside your body in real-time. Whether you’re being evaluated for infertility or undergoing treatment like IVF, ultrasound imaging helps us:
- Diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or uterine fibroids
- Monitor follicle development during ovulation stimulation
- Track the effectiveness of fertility medications
- Guide egg retrieval during IVF
- Ensure proper embryo placement during an embryo transfer
- Confirm early pregnancy and monitor its progression
At the Center for Reproductive Health in Spokane, we utilize cutting-edge ultrasound technology to provide the most accurate results, helping you achieve the best possible outcome on your fertility journey.
Center for Reproductive Health
The Ultrasound Process: What to Expect
Transvaginal Ultrasound
A transvaginal ultrasound is the most common method for fertility assessments. During this procedure, a small ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the vagina to get detailed images of the ovaries and uterus. This type of ultrasound is particularly useful for evaluating ovarian follicles and uterine lining, both of which are essential for conception. The procedure is generally quick and causes minimal discomfort.
Abdominal Ultrasound
In some cases, especially when examining the overall shape of the uterus or during pregnancy, an abdominal ultrasound may be used. This involves applying gel to the abdomen and moving a probe over the skin to capture images of the reproductive organs.
Ultrasound for Fertility Treatments
Ultrasound plays a pivotal role in fertility treatments such as IVF and IUI. For example, during IVF, ultrasounds are used to monitor ovarian stimulation and track the growth of follicles. As soon as the follicles reach the appropriate size, the eggs are retrieved for fertilization.
Similarly, in ovulation induction treatments, ultrasound helps ensure that ovulation is occurring as expected and that medication dosages are adjusted accordingly. This precision is key to optimizing treatment success rates.
Personalized Ultrasound Care in Spokane
At the Center for Reproductive Health, we understand that every patient’s fertility journey is unique. Our experienced team will ensure that your ultrasound exams are tailored to your individual needs, offering clear insights and guiding your treatment every step of the way. With our state-of-the-art imaging technology and personalized care, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your dream of parenthood.
Center for Reproductive Health
Frequently Asked Questions About Fertility Ultrasound
Most fertility ultrasounds, especially transvaginal ones, are minimally invasive and cause little to no pain. You may experience slight discomfort, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated and takes only a few minutes.
Fertility ultrasounds usually take about 15-30 minutes, depending on the type of scan being performed. You will receive detailed instructions from our team beforehand to ensure the process goes smoothly.
For abdominal ultrasounds, you may be asked to have a full bladder to improve image quality. For transvaginal ultrasounds, little preparation is needed. Our staff will guide you on any specific preparations based on the type of ultrasound you’re having.
In most cases, your fertility specialist will review the ultrasound images with you immediately after the procedure and discuss any findings. This allows us to make timely decisions regarding your fertility treatment.
Schedule Your Fertility Ultrasound at Our Spokane Clinic Today
If you’re ready to take the next step in your fertility journey, schedule your fertility ultrasound at the Center for Reproductive Health in Spokane, WA. Our team of specialists is here to provide you with expert care and support, using the latest ultrasound technology to help diagnose and treat fertility issues. Contact us today to make an appointment.