Assessment of endometrial volume by three-dimensional ultrasound prior to embryo transfer: clues to endometrial receptivity

• Published in: Human reproduction (Oxford) Vol. 14; no. 11; pp. 2851 - 2854
• Main Authors: Raga, F., Bonilla-Musoles, F., Casañ, E.M., Klein, O., Bonilla, F.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Oxford University Press 01.11.1999
• Subjects: Adult; assisted conception; Biological and medical sciences; Embryo Implantation; Embryo Transfer; endometrial volume; Endometrium - diagnostic imaging; Female; Fertilization in Vitro; Genital system. Mammary gland; Humans; Infertility - therapy; Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects); Medical sciences; Pregnancy; Prospective Studies; reproductive performance; three-dimensional ultrasound; Ultrasonic investigative techniques; Ultrasonography; reproductive performance; assisted conception; three-dimensional ultrasound; endometrial volume; Human; Sonography; In vitro fertilization embryo transfer; Pregnancy; Embryo transfer; Uterus; Female genital system; Prediction; Assisted procreation; Woman; Endometrium
• ISSN: 0268-1161; 1460-2350
• DOI: 10.1093/humrep/14.11.2851

The aim of the present prospective study was to obtain quantitative data on endometrial volume by three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound at the time of embryo transfer in an in-vitro fertilization programme and to assess its value in predicting endometrial receptivity. The cycles (n = 72) were classified according to endometrial volume: group A <2 ml, group B 2–4 ml, and group C >4 ml. Comparisons of the groups showed that pregnancy and implantation rates were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the group of patients with an endometrial volume <2 ml. Furthermore, no pregnancy was achieved with an endometrial volume <1 ml. It is concluded that endometrial volume by 3D transvaginal ultrasound may become a new objective parameter by which to predict endometrial receptivity.