Follicle Tracking

Knowing when you ovulate can take the guesswork out of trying to conceive.

Follicle tracking uses a series of ultrasound scans across your cycle to watch your follicles (the fluid-filled sacs in your ovaries that each contain an egg) grow. It shows whether and when you’re likely to ovulate, so your timing, or your treatment, can be planned properly. Many women find it a great relief to replace guessing with real information.

Questions we hear every day

“How does it work?”
We start with scans from around day 8 to 10 of your cycle (this can vary if your cycle is shorter or longer) and repeat them every couple of days. We measure the leading follicle and the womb lining and tell you when ovulation is likely. A follicle that’s ready to release an egg is usually around 18 to 24 mm in size.

“How many scans will I need?”
Usually two to four per cycle, but it depends on your cycle length and how your follicles respond. We’ll plan this with you at the first appointment.

“Is it better than ovulation tests?”
Home tests detect a hormone surge, and they’re helpful for many women, but they can be unreliable, particularly with PCOS or irregular cycles. A scan shows the follicle itself and whether it has released an egg.

“Who is it for?”
Women trying to conceive naturally, women with irregular cycles or PCOS, women taking medication to help them ovulate (such as clomifene or letrozole), and women having IUI or timed treatment.

“Can it tell me when to have sex?”
Yes. Conception is most likely in the day or two before ovulation, and we can help you time it. We’ll also explain the signs of ovulation, so you’re not anxious about getting it exactly right.

“What if no follicle develops?”
Some cycles are anovulatory, meaning no egg is released, particularly with PCOS. We’ll look into why, and discuss treatment options.

How we can help
-Serial transvaginal scans across your cycle
-Follicle measurement and ovulation confirmation
-Womb lining checks
-Timing advice for intercourse or treatment
-Support if you’re taking ovulation medication, including adjusting your plan
-Care for PCOS and irregular cycles
-Consultation and bloods, such as progesterone, if useful
-Referral for fertility treatment if needed
-Early pregnancy scans, when you get your positive test

When to book
Call at the start of your period if you’d like to track a cycle, if you have irregular cycles, if you’re taking ovulation medication, or if you’re having treatment such as IUI. You’ll get the best plan if you tell us the first day of your cycle.

Please seek urgent medical help if you have sudden, severe pelvic pain, very heavy bleeding with dizziness, or if you’re pregnant or might be and have bleeding with pain.

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