Ultrasound scanning of the ovarian cycle.

Ultrasound scanning of the ovarian cycle is a simple noninvasive technique for monitoring ovarian activity. It helps to predict a mature follicle and the time of ovulation more accurately than the basal body temperature and more rapidly and cheaply than a hormone profile, but still only one facet of ovarian activity. With respect to in vitro fertilization, egg collection can be undertaken by means of sonically guided puncture via the bladder, which is reported later in this issue. Replacement of the embryo can be controlled by sonar visualization of catheter. The use of ultrasound has proved to be extremely helpful in the management of the infertile couple.