A pelvic ultrasound is a diagnostic exam that provides images of the organs and structures in your pelvis. It helps medical professionals see your pelvic organs, including the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Additionally, one of the major benefits of a pelvic ultrasound is that it provides detailed imaging of your reproductive organs. Your medical provider may recommend a pelvic ultrasound for a variety of reasons. Below you will find helpful information for how to prepare for a pelvic ultrasound so you are ready on the day of your appointment.
How to Prepare for a Pelvic Ultrasound
A pelvic ultrasound is done with a tool referred to as a transducer. The transducer can be placed on your abdomen (transabdominal ultrasound) or inside of your vagina (transvaginal ultrasound). This depends on the type of pelvic ultrasound you are getting as one or both methods can be used. The transducer sends out ultrasound waves at an extremely high frequency. The ultrasound waves move through your body to the organs and structures within your pelvis, and then bounce back to the transducer. Next, the tool processes the waves and then creates an image of your tissues and organs. Additionally, the procedure is not painful or uncomfortable and does not take more than thirty minutes.
Benefits of a Pelvic Ultrasound
A pelvic ultrasound can be highly beneficial for your health as it is an effective imaging tool. Your doctor may recommend a pelvic exam for a variety of reasons. A pelvic ultrasound can measure and evaluate your pelvic organs. The exam can assess:
- The size, shape, and position of your uterus and ovaries
- Cervix length and thickness
- Changes in bladder shape
- Blood flow through your pelvic organs
- The thickness, color, and presence of fluid or masses near any of your pelvic organs
In addition to what a pelvic ultrasound can provide in terms of imaging, it can also diagnose and assist in treating the following:
- Tumors, masses, and cysts
- Postmenopausal bleeding
- Monitoring fetal development and assessing certain fetal conditions during pregnancy
- Abnormalities (including uterine bleeding)
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Fibroids
- Inflammation or infection
- Infertility evaluations
- Ectopic pregnancies
How to Prepare for a Pelvic Ultrasound
While you should talk with your specific medical provider, there are a few main things you should know when preparing for your pelvic ultrasound.
- Type of Exam: There are two types of pelvic ultrasounds, a transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound. A transabdominal ultrasound involves a transducer with conductive gel. The tool is gently glided over your abdomen during the exam. However, a transvaginal ultrasound is inserted into your vagina. The transducer is longer and thinner with both a protective sheath and gel for health and comfort purposes. Talk with your medical provider about which one you are getting in advance.
- Hydrate: At least one hours before your appointment, drink at least 24 ounces of water. Be sure and wait to use the bathroom until after your ultrasound. This is for transabdominal ultrasounds only, as you should definitely empty your bladder before a transvaginal ultrasound. This is why it’s important to talk with your doctor before your exam.
- Individual Requirements: Your medical provider may give you specific requirements for your visit. Still, talk with them in advance and be sure and follow their individual preparation requirements.
Breast Clinic in Houston
If you need gynecological imaging in Houston, contact Pink Door Imaging. They offer pelvic ultrasounds and use state of the art technology to provide you with real-time images of your pelvic organs and any related abnormalities. The technology is safe and effective as it is non-radiological. Contact the top Breast Clinic in Houston today for an appointment!