Antralfollikelzählung

Antralfollikelzählung, often abbreviated as AFC, is an ultrasound-based assessment of the number of small resting follicles present in the ovaries. These follicles, typically measuring between 2 and 10 millimeters in diameter, are visible during the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. The antral follicles are considered to be the reserve of oocytes available for recruitment and development into mature eggs. Therefore, the number of antral follicles provides an indication of a woman's ovarian reserve, which is a measure of her remaining fertility potential.

The procedure for Antralfollikelzählung involves a transvaginal ultrasound performed by a trained healthcare professional. During the scan, the sonographer carefully counts the visible antral follicles in both ovaries. The total count is then calculated. A higher number of antral follicles generally suggests a larger ovarian reserve, while a lower count may indicate diminished ovarian reserve.

Antralfollikelzählung is a crucial component of fertility evaluations and is frequently used to guide treatment decisions in assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). It helps predict the likely response to ovarian stimulation medications and can inform the choice of stimulation protocol. While AFC is a valuable tool, it is important to note that it is just one factor among many that contribute to a woman's overall fertility. Age, hormonal levels, and other gynecological health factors also play significant roles.