Abstract
The study was designed to investigate the role of ovarian volume, as assessed by three-dimensional (3D) sonography, in predicting conception in an in-vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) programme. Transvaginal 3D sonography was performed in 152 cycles before initiation of ovarian stimulation (day 1) and on the day of oocyte retrieval. Ovarian volume showed no significant correlation with IVF outcome. On the contrary, all ovarian measurements were lower, albeit non-significantly, in the conception group. Fifteen patients (15/152, 9.9%) had a minimum unilateral ovarian volume of ≤3 mL (1 SD below the mean) on day 1 of the stimulation cycle. In this subgroup, the likelihood of conception was 6.7% (1/15) versus 21.9% (30/137) in patients with an initial minimum ovarian volume of >3 mL. This difference did not reach statistical significance. In both groups, cancellation rates due to poor ovarian response or lack of fertilization were similar. In conclusion, ovarian volumetry as assessed by three-dimensional ultrasound failed to predict conception in women undergoing IVF treatment.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 5 August 2000 / Accepted: 11 September 2000
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Schild, R., Knobloch, C., Dorn, C. et al. The role of ovarian volume in an in vitro fertilization programme as assessed by 3D ultrasound. Arch Gynecol Obstet 265, 67–72 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s004040000138
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s004040000138