Gynaecological Ultrasound Scan

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Ultrasound involves high frequency sound waves being used to produce images of the interior of the human body.

Ultrasound scanning is often used to examine conditions affecting the organs in a woman's pelvis - the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

Preparing for gynaecological ultrasound

You will be asked to remove some of your clothing and position yourself on the scanning table. For particular scans you may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking prior to the procedure. If you are having your uterus scanned, you may be asked to attend the appointment with a full bladder. This acts as an ultrasound window and allows for better visualisation of the pelvic organs. But don’t worry there is a toilet nearby so you can empty your bladder immediately following the scan.

You usually don’t need a full bladder for a rectal or transvaginal ultrasound. 

To check for abnormalities such as polyps, cysts and fibroids and assess your ovaries or uterus we may perform a transvaginal scan.  The procedure is painless and involves insertion of a small probe (similar in size and shape to a tampon) into your vagina. 

How long does gynaecological ultrasound take?

A typical scan takes from 5 to 10 minutes. Depending on what we are assessing your scan could take longer.

Are ultrasound scans safe?

Ultrasound scanning is not dangerous and has no known side effects, it is used during pregnancy.

How is a transvaginal ultrasound done?

During a transvaginal exam, your gynaecology consultant will insert the transducer a few inches into your vagina after covering it in a lubricating gel. It may feel a bit uncomfortable at first, like a gynaecologic exam. Your provider gently moves the transducer at different angles to get clear pictures of your reproductive organs.

WHEN WILL I FIND OUT THE RESULTS?

For some types of scans our staff will be able to explain the images and results to you during or just after the scan. In other cases, a detailed analysis may be needed. The Reporting Clinician will review the images and send a report on the findings to your doctor or health professional. Be sure and ask how long you should expect to wait for the results before you leave.