Ultrasound to Evaluate Antral Follicle Count (AFC)

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Key Takeaways
  • An antral follicle count estimates ovarian reserve—the number of eggs remaining.
  • It’s a quick, noninvasive ultrasound performed early in your cycle.
  • Results help guide fertility treatment options like IVF or egg freezing.

When you’re starting your fertility journey, one of the first questions your doctor will explore is: “How many eggs do you have left?”
That’s where an antral follicle count (AFC) comes in.

An AFC is a simple, in-office transvaginal ultrasound performed early in your menstrual cycle (usually days 2–5). It measures the number of small fluid-filled sacs (antral follicles) within your ovaries—each containing an immature egg.

Your AFC provides valuable insight into your ovarian reserve—the number of eggs you have remaining—and helps your physician predict how your ovaries might respond to fertility medications.

A higher AFC generally suggests a better ovarian response to stimulation, while a lower count may indicate a diminished reserve. It’s one of the most important tools for creating a personalized fertility plan, especially for those considering IVF or egg freezing.

The test itself is quick and painless. You’ll lie comfortably as your physician performs an ultrasound to visualize both ovaries. The procedure takes just a few minutes, and results are available immediately.

At Reproductive Partners Fertility Center – San Diego, we pair AFC results with hormone testing (AMH, FSH, estradiol) to give you a complete picture of your reproductive health—so you can make empowered decisions about your next steps.