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• When is a transvaginal ultrasound performed?
• What are the restrictions and potential risks of a transvaginal ultrasound?
• What are the procedures of transvaginal ultrasound?

What is a transvaginal ultrasound?

A transvaginal ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize your pelvic organs, including the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. This procedure is beneficial in examining the internal structure and discerning any abnormalities in the pelvic region. Additionally, a transvaginal ultrasound can confirm or monitor your pregnancy.

When is a transvaginal ultrasound performed?

If you have pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding per vagina, your doctor may order a transvaginal ultrasound. It can detect if you have a cyst, tumor, fibroid, polyp, pelvic infection, or cancerous lesion. A transvaginal ultrasound can identify possible causes of infertility and signs of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.

If you are pregnant, your doctor may order a transvaginal ultrasound during the first trimester to:

• Verify your pregnancy.
• Confirm intrauterine pregnancy and detect ectopic pregnancy.
• Estimate the gestational age.
• Monitor the baby's heartbeat.
• Identify potential indicators of a miscarriage or premature delivery.
• Detect pregnancy-related issues, such as placenta previa.
• Assist in finding gynecological abnormalities during pregnancy.

What are the restrictions and potential risks of a transvaginal ultrasound?

Transvaginal ultrasounds are considered safe. The sound technology employed to capture pelvic images does not present risks to you or your fetus during pregnancy. Some individuals might experience minor discomfort or pressure, and there could be a slight vaginal discharge. However, these typically resolve within 24 hours.

A transvaginal ultrasound is feasible even though you are menstruating or pregnant. However, a specific type of transvaginal ultrasound, known as sonohysterography, is not recommended if you are pregnant or have pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

What are the procedures of transvaginal ultrasound?

Before the procedure

You do not have to refrain from eating or drinking. Follow the doctors instructions regarding whether you should arrive with an empty, partially full, or full bladder.

During the procedure

You will be in a supine position with your feet in stirrups. The transducer will be covered with a condom and lubricated before being gently inserted into your vagina to capture the images of your pelvic cavity from different angles. The procedure is painless, but you may feel slight discomfort or pressure when the transducer is inside. The transvaginal ultrasound can range from 15 to 60 minutes. In some patients, your doctor may also order a transabdominal ultrasound or sonohysterogram.

After the procedure

Your doctor will discuss the result with you and plan a suitable treatment. When the test results do not provide sufficient information for a conclusive diagnosis, your doctor may order additional tests.

FAQ

• What are the differences between a transvaginal ultrasound and a transabdominal ultrasound?
  A transvaginal ultrasound offers a more detailed visualization of organs and soft tissue within the pelvic cavity when compared to a transabdominal ultrasound. However, if transvaginal ultrasound is not feasible, such as for pregnant women with placenta previa or young girls who have not got their first period, a transabdominal ultrasound or a transrectal ultrasound is an alternative.

Note from MedPark’s Doctors

A transvaginal ultrasound is a safe and painless procedures that can help your doctor see your pelvic organs in detail, diagnose any problems you may have, and plan the treatment appropriately.