Ultrasound Scanning in Reproductive Medicine and Infertility

Steven R. Goldstein, M.D.

The introduction of transvaginal ultrasound probes in the mid-1980s revolutionized pelvic scanning. As a result of their higher frequency in closer proximity to the structure being studied, they yielded a degree of image magnification that was dubbed “sonomicroscopy.” It truly was as if we were doing ultrasound through a low-powered microscope, seeing things that one would not be able to appreciate even if one could hold the structure in hand at arm's length and squint at it! Such imaging capabilities have literally changed much of our understanding of normal and aberrant structure and function in the female pelvis. Nowhere has this been more pronounced than in the area of reproductive medicine and infertility. This monograph represents the first attempt to comprehensively describe the use of ultrasound not only in our infertile patients but also in all areas of reproductive medicine. Thus, it includes essential information on the workup and evaluation of the infertile woman, including the role of ultrasound in monitoring ovulation induction, oocyte retrieval, and embryo transfer. Beyond this, when conception takes place, ultrasound has been pivotal in recognizing and monitoring early pregnancy both when normal and abnormal. Finally, important topics in reproductive medicine such as polycystic ovary syndrome, congenital uterine anomalies, and acute and chronic tubal disease have had their understanding enhanced by ultrasound and more recently three-dimensional ultrasound. Thus, the importance of including these topics in this issue becomes obvious. Whether an experienced sonologist, sonographer, or a novice in the field, this monograph will be a welcome addition to one's bookshelf but within arm's length of one's ultrasound scanner.