Antral Follicle Count (AFC) Scan in London

An antral follicle count scan is one of the most accurate ways to assess a woman’s ovarian reserve. It measures the number of small resting follicles in the ovaries at the start of a menstrual cycle, helping fertility specialists plan the most effective treatment approach.

At International Ultrasound Services in London, the scan is performed by highly experienced consultant sonographers and radiologists who specialise in reproductive ultrasound. Whether you are planning IVF, exploring fertility preservation, or simply want to understand your fertility potential, an AFC scan provides detailed, immediate, and reliable information.

Appointments are available on the same day, including evenings and weekends. Results are discussed with you straight after the scan and can be sent directly to your fertility clinic.

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What is an Antral Follicle Count Scan?

The antral follicle count is measured using transvaginal ultrasound during the early part of the menstrual cycle. The scan identifies and counts the small fluid-filled sacs—called antral follicles—present in each ovary. These follicles contain immature eggs that could develop in future cycles.

The number of antral follicles correlates closely with ovarian reserve, which is the capacity of the ovaries to produce eggs capable of fertilisation. A higher count usually means a greater reserve, while a lower count suggests a reduced number of eggs remaining.

This information is essential for fertility planning, as it helps determine the likely response to ovarian stimulation medication and guides treatment choices.

Who Should Have an AFC Scan?

An AFC scan can be helpful for many situations, including:

Women planning IVF, ICSI, or other assisted reproductive treatments.
Those with irregular menstrual cycles or suspected diminished ovarian reserve.
Women over 35 who want to understand their fertility potential before trying to conceive.
Patients diagnosed with or suspected of having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Individuals considering egg freezing for fertility preservation.
Women who have had previous fertility treatments with a poor ovarian response.

In many fertility clinics, an AFC scan is a standard part of the initial work-up, often combined with an AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) blood test for a more complete picture of ovarian reserve.

How the AFC Scan is Performed

Timing of the Scan

The scan is best performed in the early follicular phase of the cycle, usually between day 2 and day 5 of menstruation. This timing ensures that the follicles counted are at a resting stage, providing a true reflection of the ovarian reserve.

Step-by-Step Process

On arrival, you will be welcomed and shown to a private ultrasound room. The sonographer will explain the procedure and answer any questions before starting.

The scan is usually performed transvaginally, as this approach gives the clearest and most accurate view of the ovaries. A slim, covered, and lubricated ultrasound probe is gently inserted a short distance into the vagina. The examination typically takes around 5–10 minutes.

If a transvaginal scan is not suitable for you, an abdominal scan can be offered, although image clarity is generally better with the transvaginal method.

Measurements Taken

The sonographer will:

Count the number of antral follicles in each ovary.
Record the size of the ovaries.
Assess the uterus and endometrium if requested.
Note any abnormalities that might require further investigation.

Follicle Tracking vs. Antral Follicle Count (AFC)

It's common to wonder about the difference between these two important fertility scans. They answer two different, but related, questions:

Follicle Tracking (This Scan): A dynamic process over one cycle that answers the question: "When will I ovulate?"
Antral Follicle Count (AFC): A static one-off scan, performed on days 2-5 of your cycle, that answers the question: "What is my ovarian reserve (egg count)?"

While follicle tracking monitors your ovulation in real-time, an Antral Follicle Count (AFC) Scan provides a crucial snapshot of your overall fertility potential.

Why the AFC Scan is Important in Fertility Assessment

The antral follicle count is a key predictor of how your ovaries are likely to respond to fertility medication.

A low count may suggest that higher doses of medication will be needed for ovarian stimulation.
A high count could indicate an increased risk of over-response, which is relevant in conditions such as PCOS.

A study published in Fertility and Sterility confirmed that AFC is a reliable and reproducible test for predicting ovarian response in IVF cycles. Another study in the European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology found that AFC correlates strongly with the number of eggs retrieved during stimulation.

By combining AFC with AMH levels, fertility specialists can make more personalised and effective treatment decisions, improving the chances of success and reducing risks.

Why Choose International Ultrasound Services for Follicle Tracking in London

Patients choose International Ultrasound Services for several reasons:

Specialist expertise – scans are performed by consultant-level sonographers and radiologists with years of experience in reproductive ultrasound.
Fast access – same-day and weekend appointments are available, ensuring your treatment is never delayed.
Collaborative care – results are shared directly with your fertility clinic in the required format.
Comprehensive facilities – both transvaginal and abdominal scanning available in a private, comfortable setting.
Convenient location – easily accessible London clinic with excellent transport links.

Price of Antral Follicle Count Scan

The AFC scan is priced at £159 and includes:

Comprehensive ultrasound examination.
Same-day explanation of results.
Full written report with images.
Option to send results directly to your fertility clinic.

Related Fertility Scans

International Ultrasound Services also offers:

Follicle Tracking Ultrasound – to monitor follicle growth and predict ovulation.
Pelvic Ultrasound – for general gynaecological health assessment.
Early Pregnancy Scan – to confirm pregnancy after fertility treatment.

Helen Morris

8/02/2025

I attended IUS for a scan and found this service to be very professional and thorough. Discussion with Dr Jalaleddin during the scan was helpful and the full report arrived the next day. The online booking process was straightforward. Thank you to the IUS team.
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fame perivale

8/02/2025

This is my third visit to IUS and I've always been very satisfied with their service, from the receptionist who assisted me with my last appointment to the doctors. It's a friendly environment.
I had my ultrasound with Dr. M. Jalaleddin, who has seen me before. He's very professional and kind; he made me feel at ease and gave me some reassurance about the pain in the Urinary tract.
The result of the ultrasound was sent to me shortly after the scan.
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International Ultrasound Services London

Martina Borni

8/02/2025

Booking was quick, and the visit was thorough.
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Sarah Robson

7/31/2025

I visited the International Ultrasound Services clinic with my husband, for an abdominal ultrasound on the 22nd July 2025. We met with Doctor Moh and his colleague Rina who immediately put us at ease with their friendly reception. During the course of the ultrasound Doctor Moh was very calm and reassuring. He fully explained the areas of the abdomen he was scanning and showed professionalism and care throughout the procedure. During our discussion with Doctor Moh was made aware of my anxiety relating to my kidneys. Once aware he rescanned the kidneys in an effort to reassure me. He did this of his own initiative for which I was very grateful. Doctor Moh also took time after the scan to further discuss any questions I asked. I received the medical report the next day. I had a minor query on the report upon which Doctor Moh called me directly when he was next in the clinic. Further clarity was given for which I am grateful. The quality of care throughout my experience was exceptional from start to finish. I was able to get an appointment the same day I contacted the clinic and the price charged for this excellent service was very competitive. I would certainly use their services again. Highly recommended.
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International Ultrasound Services London

mamdouh Elsmaan

7/30/2025

Dr Moh is fantastic and competent doctor and I am very happy with the service that I have been provided. Highly recommended
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International Ultrasound Services London

Roxy Borowska

7/29/2025

I had a thyroid and neck scan at IUS and had such a great experience. Dr. Jalaleddin was kind, reassuring, and incredibly informative. He took the time to explain everything that would happen and made me feel completely at ease. He clearly has expert knowledge but explained everything in simple, easy-to-understand terms, which really helped me feel confident about my results. I left feeling well looked after and so reassured. I’d happily come back here any time I need a scan. I highly recommend!
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International Ultrasound Services London

Understanding Your Results

Your results will be explained to you immediately after the scan. The written report will include:

The number of antral follicles in each ovary.
Ovarian size and appearance.
Any relevant findings in the uterus or pelvic area.

The interpretation of the count varies slightly between clinics, but as a general guide:

Low ovarian reserve – fewer than 5 follicles in total.
Average ovarian reserve – around 6–10 follicles in total.
High ovarian reserve – more than 12 follicles in total, often seen in PCOS.

Your fertility specialist will use this information alongside other tests to plan your treatment.

How to Prepare for Your AFC Scan

Preparation is minimal. For a transvaginal scan, a full bladder is not necessary. Wear comfortable clothing and bring any referral forms, previous ultrasound reports, or relevant medical information. If you are tracking your cycle, note the first day of your last period to ensure the scan is timed correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to have an AFC scan?
Between day 2 and day 5 of your menstrual cycle for the most accurate count.

Can an AFC scan predict fertility?
It cannot predict natural conception directly but provides a strong indication of ovarian reserve and treatment response.

Does a high AFC mean PCOS?
Not always, but a high count can be a feature of PCOS. Other tests are needed for diagnosis.

Do I need an AMH test as well?
Many fertility clinics recommend combining AFC with AMH for a complete ovarian reserve assessment.

Is the scan painful?
Most women find the transvaginal scan comfortable, with only mild pressure if any.

Other Ultrasound Scans for Women we offer:

We offer a large selection of ultrasound scans for women in London.