When is the best time in my cycle to have a fertility scan?

The antral follicle count is most accurate when performed on days 2–5 of your menstrual cycle (day 1 being the first day of your period). However, the scan can be performed at any point in the cycle and still provide useful information.

Is the transvaginal scan uncomfortable?

Most women find the transvaginal scan mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. The probe is narrow, smooth, and covered with a protective sheath and gel. Your sonographer will proceed gently and stop at any point if you are uncomfortable.

What does a low antral follicle count mean?

A low AFC suggests diminished ovarian reserve, meaning fewer eggs are available. This does not mean you cannot conceive naturally, but it is important information for fertility planning and IVF treatment. Your fertility specialist can advise on the implications for your individual situation.

Can I have this scan if I am on the contraceptive pill?

Yes, but hormonal contraception suppresses follicle development and will lower the AFC. If possible, it is better to have the scan after stopping contraception for at least one full cycle. Please inform your sonographer if you are taking hormonal contraception.

Will I receive a report on the day?

Yes. A written report with measurements, images, and interpretation is provided before you leave the clinic. The report is suitable for sharing with your GP or fertility specialist.

Do I need a GP referral?

No referral is required. You can book directly online or by telephone. We recommend sharing your report with your GP or a fertility specialist for full clinical context.

HCPC Registered— All sonographers

CQC Compliant— Regulated clinic

Same-Day Available— Mon – Sat

Written Report— Within 24 hours

HCPC Registered

CQC Compliant

Same-Day Available

Written Report

Women's Health

Fertility Scan (Antral Follicle Count)

A specialist ultrasound assessment measuring ovarian reserve through antral follicle count, providing essential information for fertility planning, IVF preparation, and understanding your reproductive health.

20–30 minutes

Same-day appointments

Marylebone, London W1

HCPC RegisteredCQC CompliantSame-Day AvailableWritten Report IncludedWomen's Health Expert

£235

Book Your Scan Call Us

4.9/5 from 600+ patients

HCPC-registered sonographers

Written report within 24 hours

Same-day appointments available

CQC-compliant clinic

Understanding Your Situation

Understanding Your Fertility Starts Here

Facing uncertainty about your fertility can be an incredibly emotional and anxious time. Whether you are planning to start a family, preparing for IVF, or simply want to understand your reproductive health, an antral follicle count (AFC) scan provides the most accurate assessment of your ovarian reserve currently available. Approximately 1 in 7 couples in the UK experience difficulty conceiving. Our specialist sonographers at 29 Weymouth Street provide a compassionate, thorough assessment with a written report on the same day.

Clinical Overview

What is a Fertility Scan (Antral Follicle Count)?

A fertility scan, specifically an antral follicle count (AFC), is a transvaginal ultrasound examination that counts the small resting follicles in both ovaries. Each antral follicle contains an immature egg, and the total count provides a reliable indicator of ovarian reserve — the number and quality of eggs remaining. The AFC is the most widely used test for ovarian reserve assessment and is recommended by NICE as part of the initial fertility investigation pathway. It is also used to predict response to ovarian stimulation before IVF treatment.

Is This Scan Right for You?

Who Should Book This Scan?

Women planning to start a family who want to understand their fertility window

Those preparing for IVF or other assisted reproduction treatments

Women with a family history of early menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency

Patients who have had chemotherapy or radiotherapy that may affect ovarian reserve

Women over 35 who are considering pregnancy

Anyone who has been trying to conceive for more than 6 months without success

Diagnostic Scope

What This Scan Can Detect

Antral Follicle Count

The total number of antral follicles across both ovaries, providing the most reliable indicator of ovarian reserve.

Ovarian Volume

Measurement of each ovary, with reduced volume associated with diminished ovarian reserve.

Polycystic Ovary Morphology

Identification of polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM), which affects approximately 20% of women of reproductive age.

Uterine Assessment

Evaluation of the uterine lining and cavity, which is important for implantation success.

Ovarian Cysts

Detection of functional or pathological cysts that may affect fertility or require treatment before IVF.

Fibroid Assessment

Identification of fibroids that may affect the uterine cavity and implantation.

Your Appointment

What Happens During Your Scan

Arrival and consultation

Your sonographer will take a brief history of your menstrual cycle and fertility concerns to contextualise the scan findings.

Transvaginal scan

A small, smooth transvaginal probe is gently inserted to obtain the clearest possible images of both ovaries and the uterus.

Follicle counting

Each antral follicle in both ovaries is carefully counted and measured. The uterine lining thickness is also measured.

Ovarian volume measurement

The volume of each ovary is calculated, providing additional information about ovarian reserve.

Results and report

Your sonographer will explain the AFC result and what it means for your fertility. A written report is provided before you leave.

Before Your Appointment

How to Prepare for Your Scan

1
The scan is ideally performed on days 2–5 of your menstrual cycle for the most accurate follicle count
2
Empty your bladder before the scan — a transvaginal scan does not require a full bladder
3
Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove from the lower half
4
There is no need to fast before the scan
5
If you are taking hormonal contraception, please inform your sonographer as this may affect the follicle count

After Your Scan

Understanding Your Fertility Scan Results

Your AFC result will be explained in the context of your age and clinical history. A count of 7–10 follicles per ovary is generally considered normal for women of reproductive age, though interpretation varies with age. A low AFC (below 5–7 total) may indicate diminished ovarian reserve and is important information for fertility planning. A high count (above 25 total) may suggest polycystic ovarian morphology. Your written report will include measurements, images, and interpretation to share with your fertility specialist or GP.

Why Private?