A follicular tracking study is a series of quick, internal ultrasound scans that monitor the fluid-filled sacs (follicles) in your ovaries. Each follicle contains an egg. By watching these follicles grow over several days, your referring doctor can pinpoint when your ovaries are about to release an egg.
This study is commonly used to help couples trying to conceive naturally, or as part of fertility treatments like ovulation induction or intrauterine insemination (IUI).
Common Indications for a Follicular Tracking Study
- Monitoring egg development during fertility treatments.
- Predicting the exact day of ovulation to time intercourse.
- Checking if your ovaries are responding well to fertility medications.
- Investigating irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
- Determining the thickness of your womb lining (endometrium) before conception.
What exactly does a follicular tracking study show?
The scan shows the number and size of the growing follicles in your ovaries. It also measures the thickness and pattern of your womb lining. This helps confirm that your body is preparing for a potential pregnancy.
How should I prepare for a follicular tracking study?
No special preparation is needed. You do not need to fast. For most tracking scans, you will be asked to empty your bladder completely just before the procedure because it is performed internally.
Do I need to stop taking medication?
No. You should continue all your usual medications. If you are taking fertility drugs, take them exactly as prescribed by your referring doctor and let the radiographer know.
What happens when I arrive for my scan?
You will be welcomed into a private scan room. The radiographer will ask you to empty your bladder and then undress from the waist down in a private changing area. A clean sheet or gown will be provided to cover yourself.
How is the procedure performed?
You will lie on your back on a scan couch with your knees bent. The radiographer will use a slender, specialized probe (transvaginal transducer) covered with a sterile sheath and warm gel. The probe is gently inserted into your vagina. The radiographer will move the probe slightly to obtain clear images of each ovary.
How long does a follicular tracking study take?
Each scan takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Because this is a tracking study, you will need to return for repeat scans every two to three days, usually totaling three to four visits in a single menstrual cycle.
Is there any discomfort?
You may feel a mild pressure as the probe is inserted and adjusted. It is generally not painful. Let the radiographer know if you feel any sharp discomfort, and they will adjust the probe.
Are there risks?
No. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation. There are no known risks to your ovaries, eggs, or womb lining. The sterile sheaths used on the probe prevent any risk of infection.
Can children have this scan?
This scan is for adult women undergoing fertility evaluation. It is not performed on children.
Can I have this scan if I am pregnant?
This scan is done to help you conceive. If you think you might already be pregnant, tell your referring doctor and radiographer. They will likely perform a standard obstetric ultrasound instead.
When will I get my results?
The radiographer will take measurements during each visit. At your final scan, the radiologist or radiographer will compile the measurements. A report will be sent to your referring doctor or handed to you within a few hours.
What if the scan finds something?
If the follicles are not growing as expected, or if other issues like cysts are seen, do not worry. Your referring doctor will review these findings to adjust your fertility treatment plan.
What are the important limitations?
Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation, but a useful result still depends on the clinical question, the operator, the equipment, patient anatomy, and whether the target can be reached by sound waves. Gas, bone, body habitus, pain, movement, and a limited acoustic window can hide disease. A normal scan does not automatically exclude the suspected condition; persistent or worsening symptoms need clinical reassessment and sometimes repeat ultrasound, CT, MRI, laboratory tests, or another specialist test.
Ultrasound should be used for a medical purpose, with output and examination time kept as low as reasonably achievable—especially in pregnancy and with Doppler. Internal scans and procedures require explanation, consent, privacy, and a chaperone according to patient preference and local policy.
Sources and further reading
Conclusion
A follicular tracking study is a safe and highly effective way to understand your ovulation cycle. To make the process easier, try to wear clothing that is easy to remove from the waist down, and keep a record of the first day of your last period to share with the team.