Pelvic ultrasonography in the initial investigation of subfertile women

SummaryThe value of pelvic ultrasound early in the investigation of infertile women has not been fully evaluated. Eighty-eight patients attending the infertility clinic for the first time had an ultrasound scan before their diagnostic laparoscopy. Normal ultrasound scans had a negative predictive value of 67 per cent whereas abnormal scans gave a positive predictive value of 88 per cent. Preoperative diagnosis of gynaecological pathology using a simple and non-invasive technique allows pre-operative counselling of the therapeutic options and proceeding with the definitive treatment at the time of laparoscopy if the scan findings are confirmed. Pre-operative scans also provide baseline measurements of fibromyomata or endometriotic cysts before commencing medical treatment for these conditions. Pelvic ultrasound is important in the investigation and management of subfertile women.