Gynaecological ultrasound scans (transvaginal and transabdominal) are used to assess symptoms and diagnose conditions associated with the female pelvic organs and structures.
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An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body. Gynaecological ultrasound scans, also called pelvic ultrasound scans,are a type of imaging scan used to view and assess the organs and structures within the female pelvis.
There are two types of gynaecological ultrasound scans: transabdominal (through the abdomen) and transvaginal (internal scan through the vagina). How these are performed is explained in more detail below.
Gynaecological ultrasound scans are used to investigate problems and diagnose conditions of the female pelvic organs and structures, including the uterus (womb), cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, ovaries, vagina (birth canal) and endometrium (lining of the uterus). They can also be used to view the bladder.
You may need to have a gynaecological ultrasound if you are experiencing symptoms such as:
● Severe period pain
● Absence of periods
● Postmenopausal bleeding
Gynaecological ultrasound scans can also help your specialist evaluate the health of your pelvic organs by assessing factors such as:
● The size, shape, and position of your uterus and ovaries
● Thickness, echogenicity and presence of fluid in tissues
● The length and thickness of your cervix
● Changes in the shape of your bladder
● Blood flow in your pelvic organs
A gynaecological ultrasound scan may also be used to:
● Identify the presence and position of an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD)
● Monitor ovarian follicle size for infertility evaluation
● Aid in the collection of eggs from your ovaries for use in IVF
● Monitor fetal development during the early stages of pregnancy
● Assess certain fetal conditions
● Guide biopsy procedures
The type of ultrasound you need will depend on the reason for the scan. Your consultant may only need to use one method, or they may use both to gather the information required to make an accurate diagnosis and recommend the best possible treatment.
Gynaecological ultrasounds can help diagnose a range of conditions including:
If you’re having a transabdominal ultrasound you need to have a full bladder, so make sure you drink plenty of water in the hour leading up to your appointment.
If you’re having a transvaginal ultrasound your bladder will need to be emptied just before the scan. If you are unsure which type of scans you are having or would like, then please come with a full bladder and the decision can be made at the time of your scan.
Any additional information you need to prepare for your scan will be shared with you before your appointment.
When having a transvaginal ultrasound scan, you’ll be asked to lie on your back with your knees bent and legs apart, exactly as you would if you were having a smear test (without using a speculum). If this position is uncomfortable or difficult for you, you can lie on your side with your knees drawn up to your chest.
Your consultant will place a clean, lubricated cover on an ultrasound probe before gently inserting it into your vagina. The images produced by the scan will come through on a screen for your consultant to assess and record. A transvaginal ultrasound can be slightly uncomfortable, but should not be painful, and will only take a few minutes. Any discomfort you feel, should be communicated with your consultant as adjustments can be made.
To perform a transabdominal ultrasound a clear, cool gel is spread on your lower tummy. An ultrasound probe is then moved back and forth over your skin and images appear on a screen to be evaluated. You will be lying on your back for the majority of the scan but may be asked to move into different positions and to take some deep breaths. This is a pain-free scan, but you may feel pressure on your full bladder. The scan lasts for just a few minutes.
Gynaecological ultrasound scans are performed at our outpatient clinic, and you are free to continue your normal activities immediately (return home or to work straight after your appointment).
There are no known risks associated with ultrasound scans and neither a transvaginal nor transabdominal scan has any side effects.
You will receive your results at a follow-up appointment with your consultant, where you can discuss the findings of the scan and any treatment you may need.
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