Transvaginal Ultrasound

Overview

Ultrasounds are an important part of the evaluation of suspected gynecological pathology. It is an increasingly common medical test. They are used for a variety of reasons, from checking the health of an unborn baby to diagnosing problems with the reproductive or other organs.

This guide will focus on transvaginal ultrasounds: what they are, how they’re done, and what you can expect if you need one, what to expect on the day of the ultrasound, and what information can be gleaned from the examination. So, Let’s get started!

Everything You Need to Know About Transvaginal Ultrasound

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What is a transvaginal ultrasound?

A transvaginal ultrasound is a type of pelvic ultrasound. It’s a diagnostic test that creates images of the inside of the vagina and pelvis. The test is performed with a small, hand-held device called a transducer. The transducer is inserted into the vagina, and it emits sound waves that bounce off organs and create echoes. These echoes are converted into electrical impulses that create images on a computer screen.

Transvaginal Ultrasound used to:

• Check for problems with the reproductive organs, such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or fibroids
• Evaluate the thickness of the lining of the uterus (endometrium)
• Screen for cancer of the ovaries, uterus, or endometrium
• Detect early pregnancy
• Guide needle biopsies

Sub Treatments For Ultrasound Services

How is a transvaginal ultrasound performed?

The test is performed in a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital. You will be asked to lie on your back on an exam table with your feet in stirrups. A gel will be applied to the transducer and your vaginal opening. The transducer will be inserted into the vagina and moved around to get views of the organs from different angles. The images will be displayed on a computer screen. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.

What should I expect on the day of the ultrasound?

You should expect to have a transvaginal ultrasound sometime during your pelvic exam. A gel will be applied to the transducer and your vaginal opening. The transducer will be inserted into the vagina and moved around to get views of the organs from different angles. The images will be displayed on a computer screen. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.

What information can be gleaned from the examination?

A transvaginal ultrasound can provide important information about the health of your reproductive organs. It can help diagnose problems such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, fibroids, or cancer. It can also help determine if you are pregnant and how far along you are in the pregnancy. The test  is generally safe and well tolerated. Most women report only mild discomfort from the transducer being inserted into the vagina. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about the test.

Transvaginal Ultrasoundare generally safe and well tolerated. Most women report only mild discomfort from the transducer being inserted into the vagina.

Be sure to empty your bladder before the ultrasound so that your bladder is not in the way of the view of the pelvis.  You may be asked to hold your breath at certain points during the exam so that the image is not blurred. The images from the ultrasound will be stored so that they can be reviewed by your doctor and interpreted.

In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound may be performed in real-time so that the doctor can see the organs and structures as they are being scanned. This is called a live scan. It is often used when there are concerns about ectopic pregnancy or when a biopsy of a mass is being done.

A transvaginal ultrasound is a painless and quick way to get important information about the health of your reproductive organs. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about the test.

Our Expert Team