Whether you’re just starting your fertility journey or seeking more information about this Follicular Study Procedure, this blog will guide you through the process step-by-step.
Follicle tracking is a popular fertility method that involves monitoring the maturation of egg-containing follicles within your ovary from an immature state to a mature state.
Knowing when your eggs are nearing maturity assists in predicting ovulation and the ideal time for the follicular specialist to perform an egg pick-up.
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Points to remember while preparing for the follicular study process
There are some prerequisites that need to be met while getting ready for the follicular study. Here are they;
- Follicular studies are usually done on the second day of the menstrual cycle.
- Fasting overnight is not required for the test, but some foods and drinks may need to be avoided on the advice of the doctor.
- Take any prescribed medications before the test.
- Transvaginal ultrasound is the preferred method for monitoring follicles, typically done on the third day of the menstrual cycle.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for an empty bladder during the transvaginal scan.
- Wear comfortable and loose clothing.
- It’s advisable to shower before going to the hospital for the test.
Are the follicular scans vaginal or abdominal?
Follicular studies are carried out using two methods: abdominal ultrasound and transvaginal scan. Both tests will be performed by either an ultrasound expert or a fertility expert.
Your doctor may request that you undergo one or both methods of the test for a thorough examination. Your doctor may advise you on the type of test you should have based on your cycle and the reason for the test.
Abdominal ultrasound is performed in the same way as other types of sonography.
How is the follicular study procedure done?
The test will be performed after the healthcare professional has applied the conductive gel to your abdomen. Small plastic probes are inserted into the vagina to examine the ovarian follicles and take images of the internal organs. Sonographers with certification perform the procedure. The probes will be incredibly hygienic and spotless.
The ultrasound machine’s images will be displayed on the monitor. The examination could last 15 to 20 minutes.
The scan must be performed while you are lying down in the stirrup position. The probes are inserted while you are covered from the waist down by a sheet. These probes produce ultrasound-frequency sound waves, which are used to record images.
Based on how the walls of the egg behave, the sonographer will be able to precisely predict when the egg will be released.
Is follicular study painful?
A transvaginal ultrasound is not typically painful, although it may be uncomfortable or embarrassing.
When the scan is performed externally over the abdomen, it is similar to any other ultrasound, and the gel used may be cold but not painful.
The scan usually takes a couple of minutes, and the probe used is roughly the same size as a tampon and only needs to be inserted a few inches into the vagina. As the probe is moved during the scan to take pictures from different angles, you may feel some pressure, but it should not be painful.
Compared to a cervical smear, the transvaginal scan is typically less painful since there’s no need to hold the vagina open with a speculum. However, individual differences may cause some women to feel more pain during an internal scan.
If you experience discomfort or pain during the scan, inform your sonographer, and let them know of any issues with your cervix or vagina.
Wrapping up
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