[Vaginal ultrasonographic observation of uterine contractions in embryo transfer and its relevance to treatment success].

441 patients were treated by in-vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer (ET) from January 1989 to May 1990. Transvaginal ultrasound allowed pre-transfer assessment of the uterine architecture and confirmation of successful transfer after the procedure. The length and direction of the cervical and uterine cavity were noted. The real-time image was observed for one minute to see, if uterine contractions occurred. These can be clearly seen as pulsatile movements, which can be distinguished from breathing motions. We also recognised the localisation and the movement of the transferred air bubble. A "double bubble sign" occurs as a result of the two air bubbles being seen in sagittal transvaginal ultrasound. The embryos are sandwiched between the two visible bubbles. As far as the subjective methods used permit a definitive statement, there is no connection between contractions, localisation and movement of the air bubble with the success or failure of the E.T.