Baseline Scanning

A quick scan at the start of your cycle that helps your fertility team plan the right treatment.

A baseline scan is a transvaginal ultrasound done early in your menstrual cycle, usually in the first few days of your period. It gives a “starting picture” of your womb and ovaries before treatment begins, which helps your doctor decide whether to go ahead and what to do next. Whether you’re preparing for IVF, IUI or ovulation induction, or just want to know where you stand, our team will take you through it gently.

Questions we hear every day

“What is a baseline scan?”
It’s a transvaginal ultrasound that checks the size and shape of your womb and ovaries, counts the small resting follicles in your ovaries (the antral follicle count), looks at the thickness of the womb lining, and checks for cysts, fibroids or polyps that might need attention before treatment.

“When should I have it?”
Usually on day 2 to 5 of your cycle, counting the first day of full bleeding as day 1. Timing matters, so please call us as soon as your period starts, and we’ll fit you in.

“Can I have it if I’m still bleeding?”
Yes. The scan is designed to be done during your period, so you don’t need to wait for the bleeding to stop.

“Will it hurt?”
It shouldn’t. Most women feel mild pressure. The probe is slim and covered, you’re welcome to insert it yourself, and you can ask us to stop at any point. A chaperone is available if you’d like one.

“Do I need a full bladder?”
No, an empty bladder is best for a transvaginal scan.

“What happens afterwards?”
We’ll explain what we saw and send a report to your fertility doctor if you’re in treatment elsewhere. If a cyst or other issue is found, we’ll discuss what it means for your cycle.

How we can help
-A transvaginal baseline scan at the right point in your cycle
-Antral follicle count and ovary assessment
-Womb lining and womb checks, including for polyps and fibroids
-A clear written report, for you or your fertility clinic
-Follow-on scans, including follicle tracking and lining checks
-Consultation and bloods, if you want a fuller fertility assessment
-Referral for further tests or specialist care, with a clear summary to take with you

When to book

Call on day 1 of your period if you’re about to start IVF, IUI or ovulation medication, if your fertility clinic has asked for a baseline scan, or if you’d like to understand your ovaries before trying.

Please seek urgent medical help if you have sudden, severe pelvic pain or very heavy bleeding with dizziness.

Book an appointment online or call 061 609 777. We’ll take it from there.

Please Note: We can sometimes fit patients in at short notice on day 2 to 5 so please call us directly.
We are happy to send your report directly to other clinics you’ve agreed this with.