Thin endometrium refers to an endometrial thickness below normal levels (usually <7 mm), which leads to difficulty in embryo implantation. If not diagnosed and treated in time, it may cause infertility, recurrent miscarriage, and other problems. Clinical diagnosis mainly relies on a combination of transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy, and hormone level testing.
1. Transvaginal Ultrasound
Transvaginal ultrasound is the preferred method for diagnosing thin endometrium, with the best examination time being days 12–14 of the menstrual cycle. By measuring the vertical distance at the thickest part of the endometrium, a thickness of <7 mm can be diagnosed as thin endometrium.
2. Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy directly visualizes the condition of the endometrium, evaluating its color, vascular distribution, and the presence of adhesions. This examination can be performed on an outpatient basis and is an important auxiliary method for definitive diagnosis.
3. Hormone Level Testing
This includes tests for estrogen, progesterone, and FSH. Blood samples are usually collected on days 2–3 of the menstrual cycle. Hormonal abnormalities can affect normal endometrial growth.
4. Endometrial Blood Flow Assessment
Color Doppler ultrasound evaluates endometrial blood flow. A resistance index (RI) >0.8 or pulsatility index (PI) >3.0 suggests insufficient endometrial perfusion.
5. Medical History Collection
Detailed inquiry into menstrual history, reproductive history, and intrauterine procedure history is required. Particular attention is paid to recurrent miscarriage and curettage, which are high-risk factors for thin endometrium.
6. Other Auxiliary Examinations
These include endometrial biopsy and MRI. Biopsy can clarify pathological changes in the endometrium, while MRI is useful for further evaluation of complex cases.
7. Basal Body Temperature Monitoring
By continuously monitoring basal body temperature changes, ovarian function and cyclical changes in the endometrium can be indirectly assessed.
8. Endometrial Receptivity Testing
This evaluates the endometrium’s ability to accept embryos by detecting the expression levels of specific markers.
Experts at United Life International Medical Center remind that the diagnosis of thin endometrium requires professional and systematic evaluation. Women with fertility needs are advised to undergo regular gynecological examinations and seek timely treatment if problems are identified. With medical advances, new technologies such as stem cell therapy offer new hope for patients with thin endometrium.