An endometrial thickness scan is an ultrasound examination to monitor the thickness and appearance of the lining of the womb / endometrium. The scan is useful to accurately predict when ovulation is expected in order to maximise the chances of natural fertilization and implantation of the egg. In the case of fertility treatment when the egg implantation is best performed.
The endometrial thickness scans usually involve 1 – 3 scans, usually commencing around day 7 – 9 from your last menstrual cycle. If you are having IVF fertility treatment, your clinic will tell you when these scans need to be performed. The scans are sometimes done in conjunction with hormone blood tests to check for levels of Progesterone, Oestradiol, Luteinsing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), see Female hormone blood tests.
What do we check for on the endometrial thickness ultrasound scan?
The scan is performed trans-vaginal as it gives much clearer images; a full bladder is not required.
The scan will evaluate the size, shape and condition of the:
• uterus / womb
• lining of the womb / endometrium
• both ovaries
• pelvic area / adnexa
The endometrial thickness ultrasound scan will measure the maximum diameter in mm’s of the endometrium.
