How is pelvic ultrasound done in women

The ultrasound of the pelvic organs in women implies the use of waves for the subsequent creation of a full image of the tissues of the lower abdominal region.

general information

This procedure consists in displaying an image on the computer, which is sent by ultrasonic waves. The image can be subsequently recorded on virtually any storage media and stored. Ultrasound of pelvic organs in women, as a rule, is carried out in three ways, namely:

• Transabdominal;
• Transrectal;
• Transvaginal.

Purpose:

1. To find out the cause of frequent pain in the abdomen;
2. To detect possible inflammatory processes in the body;
3. Determine the size and shape of the ovaries;
4. Confirm or rule out a completely ectopic pregnancy;
5. Determine the size and shape of the uterus.

Ultrasound of the pelvic organs in women. Preparation for the procedure

• First of all, it should be noted that if you took a so-called x-ray study using a contrast medium several days ago, you should warn the doctor directly about it. The thing is that the above-mentioned substance remains in the body for several days and, consequently, can affect the results of ultrasound of the pelvic organs in women.
• It is better to wear loose clothing just before the procedure. Some doctors suggest to completely undress, including below the belt, and use a special medical gown. If you also have a biopsy, you will first need to sign a so-called informed consent form.
• It is important to note that it is recommended that patients come to what is called an empty bowel. For a few days it is better to exclude completely from your diet those products that lead to increased gas production (for example, all legumes, potatoes, cabbage, black bread, milk, etc.).
• When examining the uterus and ovaries, women should conduct ultrasound examination in the first part of the entire menstrual cycle, in the absence of obvious contraindications from the treating doctor. So the results will be more reliable.

Possible risks

In such an area as gynecology, analyzes, as a rule, do not carry a danger. However, in this case, or more precisely in transvaginal ultrasound, there is a possibility of infection into the body. In the case of biopsy, the chances of infection of the patient are also very high.

How is the ultrasound done?

In such an area as gynecology, the diagnosis of pelvic organs is carried out quickly enough. The patient lies on the couch facing the specialist and bare the stomach. Then the doctor is already applying a special substance to the sensor (in a transvaginal procedure, a condom is put on the transducer) and starts alternately driving them in the appropriate zone, only occasionally pressing. This procedure is considered absolutely painless in the absence of serious inflammatory processes. It is believed that depending on the purpose of the study, ultrasound lasts from 10 to 20 minutes.