What Does Your Transvaginal Ultrasound Show You?
If you have pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding or similar symptoms, getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective and timely treatment. To do so, we need to get a complete, detailed picture of your pelvic organs, and a transvaginal ultrasound allows us to evaluate your situation so we can begin to tailor a treatment for you.
But what does your transvaginal ultrasound show you? How is it done and how should you prepare?
“We get a lot of questions about transvaginal ultrasounds. Some patients are nervous and even a little anxious, but this exam is very simple, straightforward, and takes less than an hour,” said Dr. Chawla. “This is an extremely useful diagnostic tool for us, and we have used this information to make dramatic differences in the quality of our patients’ lives.”
We’ll take a quick look at what your transvaginal ultrasound shows you, why it’s effective, and answer some of the most common questions we receive.
What Does Your Transvaginal Ultrasound Show?
During a transvaginal ultrasound, a slim wand called a transducer is inserted into your vagina. Utilizing sound waves, the ultrasound provides a picture of your internal organs so we can examine them closely, looking for tumors, cysts, and other diagnostic clues for your condition.
Conditions Evaluated With a Transvaginal Ultrasound
Transvaginal ultrasounds are used to evaluate:
- Uterine abnormalities
- Tumors
- The uterine structure
- Cysts
- Fibroids
- The causes of abnormal bleeding
- Polyps
- Infertility issues
- Pelvic infections
Transvaginal ultrasounds can also help us determine if you have endometriosis
If you’re pregnant, a transvaginal ultrasound can enable us to monitor the baby’s heartbeat. It also enables us to check for an ectopic pregnancy.
We Answer Your FAQs About Transvaginal Ultrasounds
How Long Does a Transvaginal Ultrasound Take?
Typically, depending upon your condition, it could take between 15 to 30 minutes.
Is a Transvaginal Ultrasound Painful?
No. Your transvaginal ultrasound may be uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t hurt. The transducer wand is lubricated and specifically designed to fit within your vagina, and some women say it is similar to a Pap smear.
If you experience pain during the procedure, please let us know. We’ll work with you to ensure it will be as comfortable as possible. We always want you to know that you can communicate openly and honestly with us.
How Should I Prepare for My Transvaginal Ultrasound?
You need to wear loose-fitting clothes. While a transvaginal ultrasound can be performed if you’re on your period, be aware that you’ll need to remove your tampon before the procedure.
Depending on your situation, we may want you to have an empty bladder or a full bladder. Sometimes having a full bladder can affect how your organs appear on the imaging equipment. We’ll give you more specific instructions when we schedule your ultrasound.
Will I Be Exposed to Radiation?
No. Ultrasounds use sound waves, not radiation, to create an image. A transvaginal ultrasound is a safe medical procedure.
Associates in Women’s Healthcare Offers the Latest Diagnostic Technology
Transvaginal ultrasounds aren’t the only high-tech equipment we have at your disposal. We also have 3D and 4D ultrasounds and the convenience of 3D mammograms. While we realize the importance of having state-of-the-art technology, we recognize that this is no substitute for a commitment to patient quality, providing the compassionate experience you deserve.
Whether you’re expecting a child or entering menopause, we would consider it a privilege to be your medical home. Please contact us for an appointment.
The information in this article and the other articles on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your healthcare provider.
