Fertility Scan - Baseline / Pelvic Scan

Service Description

A baseline scan is to assess and evaluate the ovaries, uterus and pelvic organs to determine if it is an appropriate time to start the first phase of IVF treatment. This scan a good place to start to establish if there is an underlying gynaecological problem which may hinder your chances of conceiving naturally or get in the way of your fertility treatment path. An infertility scan is an important first test for any woman that may be experiencing difficulty in conceiving. Fertility scan will verify that the uterus and both ovaries are present. There can be various signs of infertility in a woman, these may include: • Chronic pelvic pain (not only during menstruation) • Pain during sex • Back Pain • Fatigue • Nausea • Irregular periods and spotting • Bowel problems or pain with bowel movements For fertility testing, the ultrasound scan is done with an ultrasound probe applied to your lower abdomen, you may also be offered a transvaginal (internal scan via the vagina) this would be done with a slender specialized wand. The scan should not be painful, although they can be slightly uncomfortable. An endometrial thickness scan is included in this scan. This is ultrasound examination to monitor the thickness and appearance of the lining of the womb / endometrium. The scan is useful to accurately predict when ovulation is expected in order to maximise the chances of natural fertilization and implantation of the egg. The ultrasound scan works by using high frequency sound waves to create an image of your internal organs. During an abdominal ultrasound a gel would be applied over your abdomen, the transducer will be gently moved over the abdomen. During a transvaginal ultrasound, the transducer is shaped like a slender wand and will be gently placed inside the vagina. In preparation for your scan you will be asked to wear loose clothing and a full bladder will be required (a full bladder pushes the intestines out of the way , so your reproductive organs are easier to see) you may be asked to drink 3-4 pints of water 1 hour prior to the scan.