Women's Services Encyclopedia

Pelvic Ultrasound

The pelvic ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to create an image representative of the internal anatomy. In this procedure, a gel is spread over the skin (over the area to be scanned) and a small hand held transducer, which emits high frequency sound waves is used. The transducer is then passed over the surface of the lower abdomen which is a painless procedure. In females, a vaginal transducer may be used.

The information gathered using this technique is of the highest quality.

Here is a listing of some organs that can be visualized for any abnormality:

• Bladder
• Ovaries
• Fallopian tubes
• Uterus (womb)

Diagnosis:

This test is helpful in evaluating patients with pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, lack of menstrual flow, and pelvic masses. This test aids in the evaluation of the following problems:

• Tubal pregnancy
• Ovarian cysts
• Uterine fibroids (benign tumors)
• Fallopian tube abscess
• Torsion of the ovary (surgical emergency)
• Bladder stone
• Location of a lost IUD

Remember...

• There are NO known risks with ultrasound.
• In some cases a catheter may be placed in your bladder to fill the bladder with water, or you may be asked to drink water and hold your urine. A full bladder serves as a window for the sound waves, allowing visualisation of the pelvic organs.
• Basically, ultrasound is a painless exam.

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