Gynaecology Ultrasound
A gynaecological ultrasound (also called a pelvic ultrasound) is an imaging examination that uses sound waves to create real-time pictures of the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It is a non-invasive procedure used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, ovarian cysts, and infertility. The scan is performed using one or both methods: an abdominal ultrasound (using a transducer on the abdomen) and/or a transvaginal ultrasound (using a transducer inserted into the vagina).
What the scan involves
- Preparation: For an abdominal ultrasound, you may be asked to drink water to fill your bladder, which helps to provide a clearer view of the organs.
- Procedure: A gel is applied to the skin of the lower abdomen, and a transducer (a handheld device) is moved over the area.
- Transvaginal approach: In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound will also be performed. A smaller transducer is inserted into the vagina to get a more detailed view of the uterus and ovaries.
Why it's performed
- To investigate symptoms like pelvic or abdominal pain, abnormal or heavy bleeding, and bloating.
- To assess fertility issues. The scan can check the size, shape, and position of the uterus and evaluate the lining (endometrium) for abnormalities.
- To evaluate conditions like ovarian cysts or fibroids (benign tumors in the uterine muscle) and polyps (growths in the uterine lining).
- To follow up on abnormalities felt during a physical exam.