Ultrasound assessment of endometrial receptivity in in vitro fertilization treatment

Abstract

Ultrasonography of the endometrium is a noninvasive way to evaluate the chance of successful implantation during in vitro fertilization treatment. Ultrasound parameters of endometrial receptivity include endometrial thickness, endometrial pattern, endometrial volume, Doppler studies of uterine vessels and the endometrium. Endometrial thickness, pattern and volume are not predictive of pregnancy. A good blood supply towards the endometrium is usually considered to be an essential requirement for implantation. Doppler study of uterine arteries does not reflect the actual blood flow to the endometrium. Endometrial and subendometrial vascularity can be more objectively measured with three-dimensional power Doppler ultrasound. However, the role of endometrial and subendometrial vascularity in predicting pregnancy of in vitro fertilization treatment remains controversial.