Antral follicle count (AFC) is the number of small (about 2–10 mm) follicles seen on transvaginal ultrasound, usually counted in the early follicular phase. A typical total AFC for reproductive-age women is about 8–20; 4–7 suggests reduced ovarian reserve and <4 is low. An AFC above ~20 may reflect polycystic ovarian morphology. Values vary with age.

High AFC (antral follicle count) is commonly seen with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and contributes to ultrasound-defined polycystic ovarian morphology, but it does not by itself confirm PCOS. Diagnosis requires clinical or biochemical signs (like hyperandrogenism) and/or ovulatory dysfunction together with imaging. Age, ovarian reserve, and other factors can raise AFC, so a clinician should evaluate all findings.

Antral follicle count (AFC) measures small resting ovarian follicles by ultrasound and helps predict IVF response. Generally an AFC of about 8–20 indicates adequate ovarian reserve for standard stimulation. An AFC of 5–7 is borderline and under about 5 suggests diminished reserve and higher risk of poor response. AFC is one of several factors (age, AMH) used to plan IVF.

At age 35, a typical total antral follicle count (AFC) on ultrasound is roughly 8–12, though values around 5–15 can still be seen. An AFC below about 4–5 suggests reduced ovarian reserve. AMH level and AFC together give a clearer picture; results vary between individuals. Discuss your scan and blood tests with a fertility specialist to interpret what is normal for you.

AFC (antral follicle count) is the number of small (2–10 mm) ovarian follicles seen on transvaginal ultrasound in the early follicular phase. It’s a key measure of ovarian reserve and helps predict response to fertility treatments like IVF: higher AFC suggests better reserve and treatment response; low AFC indicates diminished ovarian reserve. AFC is interpreted alongside AMH and FSH.

Polycystic ovarian morphology is usually defined as 12 or more follicles (2–9 mm) in one ovary or an ovarian volume over 10 mL. With high‑resolution transvaginal ultrasound, many guidelines use a higher follicle threshold (about 20 or more per ovary). Remember PCOS diagnosis also requires clinical or biochemical features—polycystic appearance alone doesn’t confirm PCOS.