Infertility and the Role of Ultrasound
Infertility affects around one in six adults worldwide. Advances in ultrasound are helping couples access faster, clearer answers. Gillian Segasby from Ultrasound NI explains how scans support every stage of the fertility journey – from diagnosis to treatment.
Understanding Infertility
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It is a global concern, affecting around 17.5% of adults – roughly one in six people worldwide.
For many couples, the financial burden and long waiting times for fertility treatment in the UK prompt them to look abroad. Countries such as Spain, Greece, and the Czech Republic are becoming increasingly popular due to affordable, high-quality care and shorter waiting lists.
The Role of Ultrasound in Fertility Care
Ultrasound imaging plays a vital role throughout the fertility journey – from initial assessment to treatment monitoring.
- Pelvic health: Ultrasound, alongside blood tests, helps assess the uterus, ovaries, and pelvic region.
- Follicle count: Measuring the number and size of follicles (the sacs containing eggs) helps determine ovulation and egg retrieval timing.
- Endometrial thickness: Monitoring the womb lining is crucial for implantation success.
- Ovarian reserve: Counting small follicles gives an indication of a woman’s remaining egg supply.
- Structural abnormalities: Scans can detect fibroids or polyps that may affect fertility.
- Monitoring treatment: Fertility clinics rely on scan results during IVF to track follicle growth, endometrial thickness, and treatment response.
- Timing: Fertility scans are often required at precise points in the menstrual cycle to align with treatment protocols.
Patient-Centred Care at Ultrasound NI
At Ultrasound NI, patient wellbeing comes first. Appointments are scheduled exactly when required, even outside of normal hours, to ensure scans are stress-free and convenient.
High-resolution images and reports are sent directly to patients’ phones, making results instantly shareable with their fertility clinic.
Looking Ahead
Advances in ultrasound technology will continue to improve accuracy and treatment outcomes. However, the greatest benefits come from early diagnosis and proactive care.
The expert team at Ultrasound NI combines sonographers with tailored blood packages to deliver the personalised insights each patient needs.
Couples are encouraged to seek medical guidance early – with the right investigations and support, many can move forward with confidence and hope on their path to parenthood.
📍 Ultrasound NI
16 Hamilton Road, Bangor, BT20 4LE
📞 Tel: 028 91 312 836
📧 Email: hello@ultrasoundni.com
🌐 www.ultrasoundni.com
