Cycle monitoring

To monitor the woman’s menstrual cycle, she is examined shortly before she is expected to ovulate. Using ultrasound, we investigate whether a follicle has matured and whether the uterine lining has developed normally.

If the couple had sex on the night before the examination, we can also carry out a postcoital test (a so-called Sims-Huhner test). By the normal vaginal route, a small quantity of mucus is evacuated from the cervix. Under the microscope, we can see whether the sperm cells move around easily in the cervical mucus. This examination can tell us whether the couple has a realistic chance of pregnancy through normal intercourse or whether intrauterine insemination (see below) may help to improve the chances.

Especially for women with slightly irregular or extended cycles, cycle monitoring often helps to achieve the desired pregnancy. Ultrasound and possibly hormone tests are performed before the expected ovulation to find out the days when the woman is most fertile and should have intercourse.