Pelvic ultrasound scan

Description

A pelvic ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the female pelvis. It can be used to:

Assess the size, shape, and position of the uterus and ovaries

Evaluate the endometrium, fallopian tubes, and bladder

Assess blood flow through pelvic organs

Identify pelvic masses

Determine the position of an intra-uterine contraceptive device (IUCD)

Address pregnancy-related concerns

A pelvic ultrasound is performed by a sonographer, a specialist trained in ultrasound imaging. The procedure involves:

Applying a clear gel to the abdomen

Placing a probe over the gel and moving it back and forth across the belly

The probe sends out sound waves that reflect off body structures

A computer receives the waves and uses them to create an image

A pelvic ultrasound can be performed using two techniques: transabdominal or transvaginal. A transvaginal ultrasound may cause slight discomfort or pressure from the transducer, and a slight vaginal discharge from the lubricating gel.

The procedure may need to be repeated if the first test didn’t produce clear photos. This can happen for several reasons, including:

Being overweight

Not having a full bladder

Not having empty bowels, intestines, or rectum

Having excess gas in your intestines

Moving too much during the procedure

Having an open wound in your belly

1. Features

• A pelvic ultrasound can help diagnose a variety of conditions, including:
• Pregnancy: Can monitor fetal development and assess certain fetal conditions. It can also help diagnose an ectopic pregnancy, which is a pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus.
• Pelvic pain: Can help diagnose pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ovarian torsion, or other conditions.
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding: Can help diagnose uterine polyps, hormone therapy, or cancers that affect the cervix or uterus.
• Menstrual problems: Can help diagnose menstrual problems.
• Infertility: Can help diagnose polycystic ovarian syndrome and other conditions that may affect fertility.
• Uterine abnormalities: Can help diagnose abnormalities in the anatomic structure of the uterus, including endometrial conditions.
• Fibroid tumors: Can help diagnose fibroid tumors, which are benign growths.
• Cysts: Can help diagnose cysts or other types of tumors within the pelvis.
• Kidney stones: Can help diagnose kidney stones that have traveled or are traveling down to your bladder.
• Bladder growths: Can help diagnose bladder growths or other problems.
• Intrauterine device (IUD): Can help assess the position of an IUD.
• A pelvic ultrasound can also help evaluate the prostate and seminal vesicles in men.
• A pelvic ultrasound can’t provide a definite diagnosis of cancer or specific disease.