You might not know much about the endometrial cells that line your uterus, but these are some of the hardest working cells in your body. Every month when you are menstruating, the endometrium thickness and then is shed during your period. The changes that happen are dramatic enough to be seen with ultrasound during an endometrial lining scan and they have a significant impact on your fertility.
The endometrium is a special type of tissue that lines your womb:
The endometrium has two layers: the permanent basal layer and the functional layer that is shed during menstruation. Both layers can be seen on an endometrial lining scan.The endometrium prevents the walls of the uterus from sticking together and creates a welcoming environment for an embryo when you are ovulating.The endometrial cells react to the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, which cause it to grow thicker during the first half of the menstrual cycle and then to remain thick until the hormone levels drop and your period begins.If you become pregnant, the embryo will implant itself into the endometrium. The endometrium will remain thick and develop a rich blood supply and form connections with the placenta to supply the baby with everything it needs.The endometrium needs to be in the right condition for you to get pregnant:
The endometrium reaches its thickest point around ovulationThe thickness of the endometrium determines how easy it is for an embryo to implantYour fertility specialist may refer you for an endometrial lining scan to check that the womb lining is ready for embryo transfer if you are having fertility treatmentSome of the most common gynaecological conditions relate to the endometrial lining:
Polyps are benign growths that are easiest to spot on a pelvic ultrasound or endometrial lining scan when the womb lining is at its thinnest towards the beginning of your menstrual cycle.Endometriosis occurs when tissue that acts like your endometrial lining grows somewhere other than your uterus.Endometrial hyperplasia is a benign condition that occurs when the womb lining is too thick. It can increase the risk of uterine cancer.Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological cancer.
' Professional and reassuring '
Helen Campbell
The sonographer was ready as soon as I arrived, and she was extremely calming, personable and professional. The scan and blood test where efficient without feeling rushed and all very easy. These appointments can feel uneasy and make you feel anxious but I felt reassured and in professional hands the whole time
I saw Kate throughout my first pregnancy and am now doing so again with my second. She is absolutely amazing, she explains everything really clearly, and has answered all sorts of bizarre questions and worries I have had. On top of being clinically excellent she is also just the loveliest person and always a pleasure to see.
Sarah Elliott
We had the harmony test with the Birth Company and had a reassurance scan with sonographer Kirsty McGarry who was absolutely lovely and really put our minds at rest. We had been scared by our NHS dating scan and left feeling like there was something wrong. We explained the situation and was treated very professionally and with good care. Also speedy appointments also as I had phone in the morning and got an appointment by afternoon. So thankful.
Ashley and Tom
Really friendly, efficient service. Great experience overall. Had the Panorama. My appointment was with Kate who was absolutely fantastic. The results came really quickly. Have a comparison with private healthcare elsewhere and must say that The Birth Company was just how I would like to be treated when I pay for medical services - attentively, calmly, friendly, in a pleasant environment that doesn't look like hospital. Top marks!
Anna
' Efficient, friendly and always on hand to provide last minute appointments '
Anna s
The Birth Company has been excellent, providing timely scans and blood tests during my IVF treatment abroad. Staff are always friendly and extremely efficient. I would highly recommend coming here.
' Professional and friendly '
Lyndsey Dilla
When I first contacted the Birth Company I spoke to Danielle. She was fantastic. She went above & beyond to put me at easy & make the journey from Kent as stress free as possible. Every staff member that myself and my husband have come into contact with have been approachable, professional and friendly. Kate scanned me the first time and put me completely at easy. Lisa on reception is professional and very approachable. Highly recommended
' Highly recommended '
Emelie
Donald was so lovely! I was so nervous as I have a bad history and he was super quick and confirmed my baby's heartbeat as quickly as he could. He spent time showing me the baby and the anatomy and it was the best money I have ever spent! The reception girls were lovely too - considering they deal with babies day in day out they were super excited for me! Thank you so much one and all! If only I lived in London and could have all my scans with you!
Baker Street
Regent’s Park
Great Portland Street
Alderley Edge
