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Follicular Tracking

Follicular tracking is a method used to monitor ovulation to identify the best time for conception. This approach provides a precise way to track your menstrual cycle through ultrasound.

It can be somewhat difficult to correctly predict ovulation than to determine when day 14 will be. Moreover, ovulation may be irregular, and factors such as diet, disease, or stress can affect it.

Ovulation is caused by an increase in Luteinising Hormone (LH) released by the pituitary gland. In addition, LH prompts the ovaries to produce progesterone. Ultrasounds and blood tests can be used to accurately monitor this surge, which usually happens 24 to 48 hours prior to ovulation.

In general, ovulation tracking is recommended for women who:

  • Are not sure of their ovulation timing.
  • Experience repeated miscarriage during early pregnancy.
  • Are taking ovulation induction medicine
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Reasons for Follicular Tracking

Follicular monitoring is an essential approach in various fertility procedures such as planned intercourse, intrauterine insemination (IUI), in-vitro fertilization (IVF), and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Here are some common reasons follicular tracking may be recommended:

  • Unexplained infertility: For women who have been attempting to conceive for over a year (or six months for those above 35 years) without any success, follicular monitoring may be used to determine the possible ovulation problems that could be preventing pregnancy.
  • Age-related concerns: As women age, irregular ovulation becomes more common. So, if you’re above 35 and struggling to conceive, follicular monitoring can give vital insights into the ovulation patterns.
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Those with PCOS normally experience irregular menstrual cycles and ovulation. In such cases, follicular scans help track ovulation patterns and, if necessary, guide treatment plans.
  • Fertility medications: For women using fertility medications to trigger ovulation or release multiple eggs for IUI or IVF, follicular tracking may be essential to monitor the development of the follicle and adjust doses as required.
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How Does Follicular Tracking Work?

Follicular tracking uses transvaginal ultrasound scans to measure and monitor ovarian follicles as they grow. These ultrasounds utilize high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed pictures of the reproductive organs. The procedure involves inserting a probe into the vagina to achieve closer and clearer views of the ovaries.

During each scan, several key observations are measured and noted, including:

  • Number of follicles: Normally, fewer than 10 follicles begin developing at once. A higher number may indicate possible complications.
  • Follicle size: Follicles develop 1 to 3 mm daily. A mature follicle, which releases an egg, typically measures 18 to 20 mm.
  • Dominant follicle: Among the developing follicles, one becomes dominant and keeps on growing even as the rest cease to mature. Eventually, it releases the egg.
  • Endometrial lining: The uterine lining thickness is measured in order to ensure adequate development.
  • Ovulation: Ovulation is confirmed when the dominant follicle collapses, indicating the egg’s release. Blood or fluid may also be visible.

Based on the goal, ultrasound scans are conducted every 1 to 3 days till ovulation is confirmed. This step-by-step monitoring allows precise identification of the lead follicle and the timing of ovulation, hence increasing the chances of conception.

Overall, follicular tracking gives beneficial insights into the timing of ovulation and fertility potential. To discover how follicle tracking could support your journey to conception, contact us or schedule an appointment at gynaecologist.org.uk.