Abstract

Ultrasound and its role in assisted reproduction treatment

Author(s): Kannamannadiar Jayaprakasan, Shilpa Deb, Shyamaly Sur, Po Mui Lam, Milhan Batcha, Nicola Porter, Beverley Winter, Jeanette Clewes and Nick Raine Fenning

Ultrasound has become an essential tool for the assessment and management of women undergoing assisted reproduction treatment. Ultrasound permits the screening of women prior to treatment and prediction of ovarian reserve and endometrial receptivity, allows for direct monitoring of response to controlled ovarian stimulation, and facilitates oocyte retrieval and embryo transfer. While 3D ultrasound and recently introduced software, such as sonographic automated volume count, have the potential to improve the workflow of fertility units, their use is currently limited in the research setting. This article critically evaluates the available evidence in an attempt to establish the current role of both conventional and advanced ultrasound in the management of women undergoing assisted reproduction treatment.