Pelvic Ultrasound

A pelvic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to capture images of structures in the pelvic region. For women, this scan focuses on the ovaries, uterus, cervix, and fallopian tubes. Typically, the goal of a pelvic ultrasound is to assess your reproductive and urinary systems.

Reasons for a Pelvic Ultrasound

Your doctor may order a pelvic ultrasound to investigate issues such as:

  • Pelvic pain
  • Urinary problems
  • Discomfort with appendix
  • Bleeding (vaginal or not)
  • Menstrual problems, such as irregular periods or lack of periods
  • Growths, masses, or excess fluid
  • Changes in bladder shape
  • Placement of intrauterine device (IUD)

The female pelvic ultrasound often consists of two parts:

1. Transabdominal Ultrasound: An external ultrasound using a transducer and gel on your lower abdomen with a full bladder to assess pelvic organs.

2. Transvaginal Ultrasound: An internal ultrasound using a wand-shaped transducer inserted into the vagina, providing clearer images of the uterus and ovaries.

What Happens During a Transvaginal Ultrasound?

Before: After completing the transabdominal ultrasound, the Sonographer will explain the transvaginal procedure and ask for your consent. You will empty your bladder and undress from the waist down, remaining covered during the exam.

During: The transvaginal ultrasound transducer is covered with a disposable non-latex transducer cover and a lubricating gel will be applied to make inserting it easier. Your Sonographer will have you insert the transducer yourself. They will hand the transducer to you under the drape so you may insert it into your vagina. This allows you to ensure you are comfortable prior to your Sonographer taking the handle of the transducer to obtain the images. If you are unable to insert the transducer yourself due to a mobility issue, you may request assistance from your Sonographer.

After: Once the images are captured, the Sonographer will remove the transducer, allow you privacy to dress, and inform you when the exam is complete. The images will be reviewed by a Radiologist, and a report sent to your doctor.

Potential Risks With Transvaginal Ultrasound

Most patients experience little to no discomfort with a transvaginal ultrasound, though some may feel mild discomfort or pain. If at any point you feel pain and would like to end the examination, inform the Sonographer, and the exam will be stopped.

The Right to Decline a Transvaginal Ultrasound

Your comfort and consent are our top priorities. If youโ€™re not comfortable with a transvaginal ultrasound, you are welcome to decline the test. Should you choose to proceed, you can ask to pause or stop the exam at any time. Our goal is to provide high-quality imaging while ensuring you feel safe and at ease. Donโ€™t hesitate to ask the Sonographer any questions you may have.

Duration

A pelvic ultrasound, including both the transabdominal and transvaginal portions, lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Cost

Pelvic ultrasounds are typically covered by Alberta Health Care or other provincial health plans (except in Quebec).

Pelvic Ultrasound Preparation

Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose clothing that allows for easy movement and access for the exam.
Hydration Instructions: Empty your bladder 90 minutes before your appointment. Then, drink four 8-ounce glasses of water, finishing at least 60 minutes before your exam. Avoid urinating until the exam is complete.
What to Bring: Arrive 15 minutes early and bring the following:

    • Your requisition (unless your physician has submitted it directly)
    • Your Alberta Health Care card (or out-of-province health care card)
    • Photo identification

Additional Note for Combined Exams: If you are scheduled for a combined abdominal and pelvic ultrasound, fasting is also required in addition to the preparation steps outlined above.

Exam Preparation

Being prepared for your pelvic ultrasound helps us take the best possible images for diagnosis. Please visit our exam prep page for more instructions specific to pelvic ultrasound.

clinic ultrasound scan bed
Pelvic ultrasound Alberta