transvaginal ultrasound

The transvaginal ultrasound uses a small, wand-like transducer, or probe, which is inserted into the vagina. The probe emits high-frequency sound waves, which are not audible by humans. These sound waves painlessly bounce off the structures in its path. The returning echo wave is picked up by the probe. This information is fed into an attached computer that then creates an image, or sonogram, on a screen. It can differentiate between structures that are solid, such as a tumor, or filled with fluid, such as a cyst. It can be used to measure the thickness of the lining of the uterus, as well as of other organs.

A technique called color flow Doppler imaging may be used to evaluate the blood flow to certain structures. This can be helpful in establishing whether blood flow has been obstructed or enhanced to an organ. It cannot tell if a solid mass is malignant or benign. Other tests, such as a biopsy, would be needed to gather that information. It is done on an outpatient basis, is less expensive than imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and is considered safe, using sound waves rather than radiation to generate an image.

Little preparation is needed for the transvaginal ultrasound. A woman will need to undress from the waist down, and lie face-up on the examination surface. Legs may be put in stirrups, or a bolster may be placed under the hips to tilt the pelvic area upwards to facilitate use of the probe, both for insertion as well as for the ultrasound process itself. The test is done with an empty bladder, which is more comfortable than the full bladder required for the abdominal ultrasound. This method may be a preferred choice for women who have difficulty with bladder control. A woman may wish to request that she insert the probe herself, which is similar to the insertion of a tampon. Gel that has been warmed will make insertion more comfortable.

It is always your choice as to which method of examination you have performed . With transvaginal ultrasound the probe is positioned close the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and other pelvic structures and thus a far superior quality ultrasound image is obtained. In certain circumstances a transvaginal ultrasound examination is not possible or not advisable; for example, if you have not had sexual intercourse before and do not use tampons during your periods or there is scarring and tenderness in the vagina then a Transabdominal ultrasound is the preferred approach. If there are any concerns or enquires regarding the examination you may contact the department prior to the examination or speak to the technician on the day prior to the scan. If you prefer a female technician to perform the scan then this can also be arranged.