Follicle tracking ultrasound
follicle tracking · follicular monitoring · ovulation ultrasound · ovulation scan
The doctor checks your ovaries with ultrasound several times during one cycle. This shows how the follicle grows and whether you ovulated.
When planning a pregnancy, with an irregular cycle, during ovulation stimulation, and before IVF.
⏱ Duration: one visit usually takes 10 to 15 minutes; usually 2 to 4 visits per cycle; results right away
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- When to come. The first visit is usually on day 8 to 10 of your cycle. Your doctor will set the days based on your cycle length.
- Bladder. Usually an internal probe is used, so your bladder should be empty. Use the toilet before the scan.
- Hygiene. A normal shower. No special prep is needed.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your cycle calendar or an app with your period dates
- Past ultrasound reports
- A sheet and wipes, if the clinic asks
How it goes
- You undress below the waist and lie on the couch
- A disposable cover with gel is put on the probe
- The probe is gently placed in the vagina
- The doctor measures the follicles and the lining of the uterus
- You are told when to come for the next visit
What you'll feel
- Light pressure, usually not painful
- If it is uncomfortable, tell the doctor, and they will be gentler
Afterwards
- You can go back to your usual day right away
- You get the result of each visit right away
- Afterward, your doctor will suggest the best days to conceive or the next step in treatment
Common questions
How many times do I need to come?
Usually 2 to 4 times in one cycle, until it is clear whether you ovulated.
Does it hurt?
Usually not. You only feel light pressure from the probe.