What is follicular study?

A follicular study is a series of ultrasound examinations performed during the menstrual cycle to monitor the development and growth of follicles in the ovaries. It is primarily used in fertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), to determine the optimal time for egg retrieval.

Here's how a follicular study is typically conducted:

1. Cycle Day 2 or 3:

- The initial ultrasound is done at the beginning of the menstrual cycle, usually on cycle day 2 or 3 (the day after menstruation starts or two days after if the bleeding starts on a Sunday).

- This baseline ultrasound assesses the number and size of follicles present in the ovaries.

2. Monitoring Phase:

- Subsequent ultrasound scans are conducted every 2-3 days, depending on the growth rate of the follicles.

- These scans track the development of the follicles as they mature and reach a dominant size.

- The dominant follicle is the one that typically contains the mature egg that can be retrieved for IVF.

3. Measuring Follicles:

- During each ultrasound, the size of the follicles is carefully measured.

- The diameter of the largest follicle is recorded, and its growth is monitored over time.

4. Endometrial Evaluation:

- The thickness of the uterine lining (endometrium) is also assessed during the follicular study.

- Adequate endometrial thickness is important for implantation of the fertilized egg.

5. Timing of Trigger Shot:

- Based on the growth of the follicles and the endometrial thickness, the doctor determines the optimal time for administering a trigger shot.

- The trigger shot, usually containing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), is given to induce ovulation.

- Ovulation typically occurs 36-40 hours after the trigger shot.

The follicular study helps medical professionals make informed decisions about the best time for egg retrieval and insemination (or embryo transfer in IVF) to increase the chances of successful fertilization and pregnancy.