Antral Follicular Count (AFC) is a transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) that counts the small resting follicles visible in both ovaries, a direct, visual read of your ovarian reserve. Unlike a blood test, AFC shows the follicles themselves, making it one of the most trusted tools for diagnosing PCOS, planning IVF, and assessing fertility timing.
Normal range: reserve appropriate for reproductive age
Normal ✓
Normal range: 6–15 total, both ovaries
Fertility
IVF Planning
About the Scan
The Direct View of Your Egg Supply
Every menstrual cycle, a cohort of small "antral" follicles (roughly 2–10mm) becomes visible on ultrasound before one is selected to mature and ovulate. Counting them directly, across both ovaries, early in the cycle, gives a real-time, visual measurement of ovarian reserve that complements what a blood hormone level can only estimate.
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What AFC Measures
A sonographer counts every visible antral follicle in each ovary and measures ovarian volume in three dimensions. Together, total count and volume describe the size of the egg pool available for recruitment this cycle, the same biological reserve that AMH estimates from blood.
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AFC and IVF Planning
AFC is one of the two primary markers (alongside AMH) that fertility specialists use to predict ovarian response to stimulation drugs. A low count predicts fewer eggs retrieved; a very high count flags risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), both change how a stimulation protocol is dosed.
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AFC in PCOS Diagnosis
A high follicle count arranged around the edge of the ovary, often described as a "string of pearls", is one of the defining ultrasound features doctors look for when diagnosing polycystic ovary syndrome, alongside cycle history and hormone levels.
When to Scan
Five Reasons to Get an AFC Scan
01
Fertility Planning: Understanding Your Reproductive Window
If you're planning pregnancy in the next few years, or considering egg freezing, an AFC scan gives a direct, visual answer about how many eggs are available this cycle, information you can plan a timeline around.
02
Difficulty Conceiving After 6–12 Months
After 6 months (age 35+) or 12 months (under 35) without conception, AFC combined with a full pelvic scan is a first-line fertility investigation, checking the uterus, tubes, and ovaries in one visit.
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Before IVF or IUI: Protocol Planning
Fertility clinics use AFC, alongside AMH and age, to choose the right ovarian stimulation dose. It makes treatment safer, protecting against both a poor response and hyperstimulation.
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PCOS Evaluation
Irregular periods, acne, and weight changes alongside a high peripheral follicle count on scan support a PCOS diagnosis, correlated with your hormone levels and cycle history for a complete picture.
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After Ovarian Surgery or Approaching Menopause
After cyst removal or ovarian surgery, AFC tracks how much healthy follicle-bearing tissue remains. In your late 30s or early 40s, a low count can flag premature ovarian insufficiency early, while there's still time to act.
AFC Reference Ranges
Low reserve
Under 5–6 total
Normal range
6–15 total
High / PCOS pattern
Over 20 total
Best cycle timing
Day 2–5
⚕️ AFC reflects quantity of follicles visible this cycle, not egg quality. It is usually read together with AMH and age for the most complete ovarian reserve picture. We offer both at Mascot Healthcare.
Preparation
How to Prepare for Your AFC Scan
A little timing makes the count more accurate, but the scan itself needs almost no preparation.
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Cycle Day 2–5 Ideal
The most accurate baseline count is taken early in your cycle, before any single follicle starts to dominate. Other days are still useful and will be noted on your report. You don't need to reschedule if you can't make day 2–5.
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Empty Bladder Preferred
Unlike a transabdominal scan, a transvaginal scan gives clearer images with an empty bladder. Use the toilet just before your appointment. If an internal scan isn't suitable for you, a transabdominal alternative with a full bladder can be discussed.
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No Fasting Needed
Eat and drink normally beforehand. There's no special preparation beyond an empty bladder and, ideally, the right cycle day.
Why Choose Us
Trusted Fertility Scanning in Akoka & Beyond
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Read in Context, Not Just a Number
A follicle count on its own is only half the story. We read your AFC result together with your age, cycle history, and fertility goals, not handed over as a number without explanation.
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Paired With AMH for a Complete Picture
AFC and AMH usually agree, but each occasionally catches something the other misses. We can draw an AMH blood sample in the same visit for the most complete ovarian reserve assessment.
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Full Fertility Panel Available
Beyond AFC, a complete fertility work-up can include a full pelvic scan, hormonal panel (FSH, LH, oestradiol, prolactin), and progesterone, coordinated across visits aligned to your cycle where needed.
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Completely Confidential
Fertility concerns are deeply personal. Your scan result and everything discussed with our team is held in strict confidence, shared with no one without your explicit consent.
"I'd been trying for a year with no answers. My AFC scan showed a normal count on both sides, which ruled out low reserve as the cause and pointed our doctor toward checking my tubes next. Having a clear result, rather than guessing, made the whole process feel less overwhelming."
Yes. Ultrasound scans are by appointment, so please book before you come. Book online, call 0816 586 6252 or WhatsApp 0903 185 8761. Same-day slots are often available.
How much does an antral follicle count (AFC) scan cost?
Prices change, so we don't print them on this page. The current price is on our live price list, or call 0816 586 6252 to ask.
When are you open?
Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM. We are closed on Sundays and Nigerian public holidays.
How should I prepare?
See our test and scan preparation guide. Good to know for this test: Cycle day 2–5 preferred; Same-day result. If you are unsure, message us on WhatsApp before you come.
Can I come here in an emergency?
No. We don't handle emergencies. For chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of a stroke, heavy bleeding or any other emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 112.
Do you accept HMO or health insurance?
Not at the moment. You pay at the clinic by cash, card, POS or bank transfer.