What is the Antral Follicle Count (AFC)?

The Antral Follicle Count (AFC) refers to the number of follicles that can be visualized via ultrasound in the ovaries during the early part of the menstrual cycle, typically in the follicular phase. These antral follicles are small fluid-filled sacs that contain immature eggs and are a key indicator of a woman's ovarian reserve.

An AFC is particularly valuable in assessing fertility potential, as it provides insights into the overall number of viable follicles that could potentially develop into mature eggs. This count helps clinicians evaluate reproductive health and formulate appropriate treatment plans for women facing infertility.

Understanding the AFC is important because it specifically focuses on the follicles that are in the early stages of development and detectable during a transvaginal ultrasound, which distinguishes it from the other options that describe different aspects of the ovarian reserve or menstrual cycle.