Fertility Mapping Scan

For many individuals and couples, the journey towards starting a family can feel uncertain. Understanding your fertility is not just about knowing whether you can conceive, it’s about gaining clarity, confidence, and control over your reproductive health. A fertility mapping scan is a valuable diagnostic tool that provides a detailed picture of the reproductive organs, offering insights that can guide natural conception or assist fertility treatments.

Unlike general pelvic ultrasounds, a fertility mapping scan is specifically timed and structured to assess the factors that influence fertility, such as ovarian reserve, follicular development, uterine lining, and potential structural concerns like fibroids or cysts. It is often recommended for individuals experiencing difficulty conceiving, planning a pregnancy later in life, or undergoing assisted reproductive techniques like IVF or IUI. 

What is a fertility mapping scan? 

A fertility mapping scan is a specialised transvaginal ultrasound designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the female reproductive system. It plays a key role in fertility assessment by mapping out the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding pelvic structures in detail, which allows clinicians to identify factors that may influence conception.

This scan is typically performed at specific points in the menstrual cycle, often between days 2 and 5, when baseline measurements of the ovaries and endometrial lining are most informative. It may also be repeated later in the mid-cycle to monitor ovulation and the development of follicles—fluid-filled sacs within the ovaries that release eggs.

The information gathered from a fertility mapping scan is often used to guide natural conception attempts or plan fertility treatments such as timed intercourse, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or in vitro fertilisation (IVF). 

How does a fertility mapping scan work? 

A fertility mapping scan is conducted using a high-resolution transvaginal ultrasound, which allows for detailed visualisation of the pelvic organs. The scan is carefully timed within the menstrual cycle to capture information relevant to egg development, ovulation, and the overall condition of the reproductive system.

Step-by-step process:

• Timing of the scan — the first scan is usually scheduled between days 2 and 5 of the menstrual cycle. This is known as the baseline scan, and it provides essential information about the uterus and ovaries in their resting phase. A follow-up scan may be performed around mid-cycle (days 10–14) to monitor follicle growth and ovulation.

• Procedure — the scan is performed transvaginally, which means a thin, lubricated ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the vagina. This approach provides clearer images compared to abdominal scans, especially for visualising small structures such as ovarian follicles and the endometrial lining.

Assessment areas:

• Ovaries — the scan measures the number of antral follicles (small, fluid-filled sacs containing immature eggs), which provides an estimate of ovarian reserve.

• Follicular tracking — as the cycle progresses, dominant follicles are monitored to determine their growth and predict ovulation.

• Uterus — the shape, size, and lining of the uterus are evaluated for abnormalities like fibroids, adhesions, or polyps.

• Endometrial lining — the thickness and appearance of the uterine lining are assessed to gauge readiness for embryo implantation.

Results and interpretation

The findings are discussed with the patient, often during the same visit or shortly thereafter. Based on the scan, the clinician may recommend further investigations, lifestyle adjustments, or treatment options suited to the individual’s fertility goals.

This scan is entirely non-invasive, does not involve radiation, and is generally well tolerated. It provides crucial information not only about current fertility status but also about potential barriers to conception, which makes it an essential component of preconception planning and fertility care.

Why choose a fertility mapping scan?

A fertility mapping scan offers more than just a snapshot of reproductive health, it provides a structured and in-depth understanding of the factors that influence conception. For individuals or couples trying to conceive, it forms a vital part of a fertility assessment by helping to identify potential issues early and optimise timing for pregnancy.

• Comprehensive assessment of reproductive organs  — the scan provides a detailed view of the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding pelvic anatomy. It allows clinicians to detect structural concerns such as fibroids, ovarian cysts, polycystic ovaries, uterine polyps, or congenital abnormalities that may interfere with conception or implantation. Identifying these issues early can prevent delays in treatment and support better reproductive outcomes.

• Monitoring ovulation and follicle development  — by tracking the size and number of developing follicles within the ovaries, the scan helps determine the timing of ovulation, an essential factor when trying to conceive naturally or through fertility treatments. It also enables detection of irregular or absent ovulation, which may require further investigation or management.

• Evaluation of the endometrial lining  — the uterine lining plays a critical role in successful implantation. The scan assesses both the thickness and the pattern of the endometrium throughout the cycle, which provides insights into whether the lining is developing in a way that supports embryo attachment. This is particularly important for those undergoing intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

What are the benefits of fertility mapping? 

A fertility mapping scan offers a range of benefits for individuals and couples seeking clarity about their reproductive health. As a non-invasive, accessible, and informative tool, it plays a key role in both diagnostic assessment and fertility planning.

• Safe and non-invasive — the procedure is entirely non-invasive, performed using a transvaginal ultrasound probe that does not require sedation or involve any exposure to radiation. It is generally well tolerated and considered a safe first-line investigation in fertility care.

• Real-time results and immediate feedback — one of the major advantages of this scan is that it provides real-time imaging. This means findings can often be discussed during or immediately after the procedure, which allows for swift clinical decision-making and reduces the need for multiple appointments.

• Individualised fertility planning — fertility is not a one-size-fits-all journey. By mapping the specific features of your reproductive system—such as follicle count, endometrial development, or the presence of structural abnormalities—the scan enables your clinician to tailor recommendations and treatment plans to your unique physiology and fertility goals.

• Cost-effective diagnostic tool — compared to more advanced or invasive investigations, a fertility mapping scan provides high-value information at relatively low cost. It can help determine whether more extensive testing or intervention is needed, or whether natural conception remains a viable and timely option.

Who should consider the fertility mapping scan? 

A fertility mapping scan can provide valuable insights for a wide range of individuals, whether you are in the early stages of planning a family or already navigating fertility challenges. It is especially recommended for:

• Individuals experiencing difficulty conceiving — if you have been trying to conceive for 6 to 12 months without success, this scan can help identify issues such as anovulation, fibroids, or reduced ovarian reserve that may be affecting fertility.

• Women with irregular or absent menstrual cycles — irregular periods may signal hormonal imbalances or ovulatory problems. The scan allows for tracking of follicle development and cycle patterns, which helps clarify whether and when ovulation is occurring.

• Those preparing for fertility treatments — individuals planning assisted reproductive techniques like IUI or IVF benefit from a fertility mapping scan to assess uterine and ovarian health, which helps with personalized treatment protocols.

• Individuals with gynaecological conditions or past pelvic surgery — if you have a history of conditions such as endometriosis, PCOS, or pelvic surgery, the scan helps evaluate how these may be impacting fertility by identifying adhesions, cysts, or other structural concerns.

What should I expect during and after the fertility mapping scan? 

Undergoing a fertility mapping scan can feel like a significant step in your fertility journey, especially if you are unsure what to expect. Knowing how the scan is performed and what happens afterwards can help ease any anxiety and allow you to prepare comfortably. At Holistic Gynaecology & Fertility, we prioritise your comfort and clarity at every stage of the process.

• During the scan — the procedure is usually performed transvaginally while you lie comfortably on an examination couch. A thin, lubricated ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the vagina to provide high-resolution images of the uterus and ovaries. The scan typically takes around 5 to 10 minutes and is generally well tolerated, with minimal discomfort.

• Timing within your cycle — the first scan is often scheduled between days 2 and 5 of your menstrual cycle to assess your baseline fertility status. In some cases, a second scan may be arranged around mid-cycle (days 10 to 14) to monitor follicular growth and ovulation. Intrauterine issues like polyps can be best seen during this stage of the menstrual cycle.

• After the scan — once the scan is complete, your results are discussed immediately. This discussion includes what was seen during the scan and what it might mean for your fertility journey. Your doctor may recommend further investigations, lifestyle changes, or treatment options based on the findings.

• No downtime required — you can resume your usual daily activities straight after the scan. There are no restrictions or recovery periods needed, which makes it a convenient and low-impact procedure.

Summary 

A fertility mapping scan is a specialised ultrasound that offers a clear and detailed view of the reproductive system, helping to identify factors that may affect your ability to conceive. It assesses the ovaries, uterus, and endometrial lining, tracks ovulation, and provides essential insights that support natural conception or guide fertility treatments like IUI and IVF. 

Whether you are experiencing difficulty conceiving, planning fertility treatment, or simply seeking clarity about your reproductive health, this scan offers a valuable first step. 

If you are ready to understand your fertility better, schedule a consultation with us for a comprehensive fertility mapping scan.