18.) Cervical Score , Folliculometry And Other Tests For Ovulation Assessment Flashcards
What is the purpose of assessing the cervical score in ovulation assessment?
The cervical score evaluates cervical mucus changes around ovulation to determine the likelihood of sperm penetration and fertility. It’s a non-invasive method that helps assess optimal timing for conception.
What is the Insler Cervical Score, and what parameters does it include?
The Insler Cervical Score is a scoring system used to assess the quality of cervical mucus around ovulation. It includes:
- Mucus Quantity: Volume of mucus produced.
- Spinbarkeit (Stretchability): Elasticity and stretch of mucus, indicating estrogen influence.
- Ferning Pattern: Crystallization of mucus under a microscope due to sodium chloride.
- Cervical Openness: Degree of cervical dilation.
- Scoring: Higher scores indicate more favorable conditions for sperm penetration.
What is spinbarkeit, and why is it important in assessing ovulation?
Spinbarkeit refers to the stretchability of cervical mucus, which increases under the influence of estrogen as ovulation approaches. High spinbarkeit (elasticity) indicates fertile mucus, which facilitates sperm movement and survival.
What does a ferning pattern in cervical mucus indicate, and how is it observed?
The ferning pattern, visible under a microscope, occurs due to crystallization of sodium chloride in cervical mucus. It resembles fern leaves and indicates high estrogen levels and peak fertility, typically around ovulation.
What is folliculometry, and how is it used to assess ovulation?
Folliculometry is the ultrasound monitoring of ovarian follicles to track their growth and determine the timing of ovulation. It involves:
- Measuring dominant follicle size (usually 1.5–2.5 cm at maturity).
- Confirming follicle rupture, which indicates ovulation.
- Detecting issues like anovulation (no follicle development) or persistent follicles (indicative of cysts).
Describe the basal body temperature (BBT) method for ovulation tracking.
The BBT method involves daily temperature tracking upon waking. After ovulation, progesterone increases BBT by 0.3–0.6°C.
- Biphasic pattern: Indicates ovulation, with a post-ovulatory rise in temperature.
- Monophasic pattern: No temperature shift, suggesting anovulation.
What role does luteinizing hormone (LH) testing play in ovulation assessment?
LH testing detects the LH surge, which occurs 24–36 hours before ovulation. This hormone surge triggers ovulation, making LH tests a useful tool for predicting peak fertility.
What is the role of serum progesterone testing in ovulation assessment?
Serum progesterone levels are checked in the luteal phase (around day 21 of a 28-day cycle). Elevated levels confirm ovulation, as progesterone is produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation.
How is endometrial biopsy used in assessing ovulation and fertility?
Endometrial biopsy assesses the histological maturity of the endometrium in the luteal phase, which should correspond to the timing of ovulation. A properly developed endometrium supports embryo implantation, while inadequate development may indicate luteal phase defects.
What are anovulation and luteal phase defects, and how do they impact fertility?
- Anovulation: The absence of ovulation, often due to hormonal imbalances like PCOS. It prevents egg release, making conception impossible.
- Luteal Phase Defect: Insufficient progesterone production post-ovulation, leading to an underdeveloped endometrium, which may prevent successful implantation.
