Pelvic ultrasounds are generally performed if you are experiencing pelvic pain, infertility, abnormal vaginal bleeding, other menstrual issues.

A private ultrasound can also help diagnose palpable masses – ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids, for example – uterine and ovarian cancers.

If your doctor has requested a pelvic scan or if you believe you need one, it’s vital to schedule your appointment as soon as possible.

A transabdominal ultrasound is performed through your abdomen. It is a quick and non-invasive procedure. 

A transvaginal ultrasound is performed inside your vagina. The process should not be painful and is typically over in a matter of minutes. If it does, let your specialist know. We are here to make your experience a positive one.

Yes. It’s fine to have a pelvic ultrasound while you have your period. Just let the sonographer know before they start the scan.

Preparation pre-assessment depends on whether you are having a transabdominal or transvaginal scan. 

For a transabdominal scan – 

• You can eat or drink as usual.
• You must drink at least one litre of water one hour before your appointment.
• Please make sure your bladder is full when you attend your appointment.
• If you are on medication, please take your medicines on time.

For a transvaginal scan –

• You can eat or drink as usual.
• You will be asked to empty your bladder before your appointment.
• If you are on medication, please take your medicines on time.

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment. 

The sonographer will gather relevant information regarding your concerns. They will explain the procedure to you. 

You will be positioned on your back on the exam table, with your legs raised.

For a transvaginal scan a small, lubricated transducer will be inserted into your vagina. The transducer is inserted like a tampon. The transducer is larger than a tampon, but smaller than the speculum that your doctor uses for a pelvic exam.

During the exam you will feel a light amount of pressure. You may be requested to lie still, change positions, hold your breath, or just breathe normally.

This examination is usually completed within 20 minutes. You should be able to resume your normal activities immediately.

For a transabdominal scan – You will be asked to lie on your back and expose your upper abdomen. A small amount of water-based gel will be applied to your skin. The gel will help the ultrasound probe to make good contact with the skin. The ultrasound probe will be placed on the body and will be moved in different directions over the area of interest to obtain the required information/ultrasound images.

The clinician will explain the ultrasound findings at the time of your scan. Following your appointment, a complete digital report of your Ultrasound examination will be emailed to you directly with any recommended actions.

There are no risks or side effects associated with the Pelvic ultrasound scan. Ultrasound does not use any radiation, here are no confirmed adverse biological effects on patients or instrument operators caused by exposures to ultrasound at the intensity levels used in diagnostic ultrasound.