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Why is antral follicle count important for IVF?
Before starting fertility treatment, such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), you will need to undergo a fertility assessment to determine a suitable treatment plan for optimal results.
This assessment will include various tests, one of which is the antral follicle count (AFC). The AFC is essential for fertility specialists to evaluate your reproductive health and plays a significant role during the IVF treatment process.
What is antral follicle count?
Antral follicles are small fluid-filled sacs that contain immature eggs. Throughout the menstrual cycle, these follicles grow and develop, eventually leading to the release of a mature egg during ovulation.
The antral follicle count is an important measure used by fertility specialists to assess the ovarian reserve, which refers to the number of eggs available for potential conception. It plays an essential role during IVF treatment by providing vital information about a patient's ovarian reserve, which can influence the success of the procedure.
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How is antral follicle count tested?
Antral follicle count is assessed through a transvaginal ultrasound scan, which counts the number of antral follicles present in each ovary. This scan is typically conducted at the beginning of your menstrual cycle, usually between days two and four, when the hormonal variations are minimal. You shouldn’t feel any pain, though some patients may experience some discomfort.
During the scan, the doctor will also evaluate the uterus for any abnormalities that could affect fertility. Additionally, the ovaries and their volume will be examined, as they tend to decrease in size before menopause. Smaller ovaries may respond less effectively to stimulating medications used in fertility treatment. An anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) blood test will also be conducted as part of the fertility assessment to provide an accurate measure of your fertility health.
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How does antral follicle count impact IVF?
Antral follicle count plays an essential role in IVF treatment. During the process, your ovaries are stimulated to encourage the growth of multiple follicles at the same time. The ideal number of follicles is between 10 to 15.
By conducting the AFC scan, doctors can estimate your response to the medications used and determine the most suitable treatment option for you.
What does it mean for fertility?
A higher antral follicle count typically indicates a better ovarian reserve and a greater likelihood of responding effectively to IVF. This increases the chances of obtaining multiple viable embryos for fertilisation. Whereas a lower antral follicle count may imply a reduction in ovarian reserve and could point to underlying fertility issues. However, it is important to understand that a low count does not necessarily mean that you have infertility issues, as other factors such as age, egg quality and lifestyle choices also play a significant role. Rest assured, this will be discussed in detail during your consultation.
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