Pelvic Scan

What is a Pelvic Scan?

A pelvic scan is an ultrasound of the organs in the pelvis. This is a gynaecological (not pregnancy) scan. Pelvic ultrasound can help to diagnose problems in your lower abdominal and pelvic organs, such as gynaecological or bladder problems.

In women pelvic ultrasound can help find the cause of pelvic pain, heavy or painful periods or other abnormal vaginal bleeding. The scans can help diagnose cysts in the ovaries and fibroids in the womb, as well as ovarian and womb cancer. It can also be used to look for causes of infertility and may be used for monitoring during some types of fertility treatment.

You will receive a detailed report for your doctor.

What happens during a Pelvic Scan?

The patient is asked to lie on the table, the abdomen is exposed and some warm gel is placed on it. A small probe which produces the sound waves will then be moved over the patient's skin to examine the organs of the body.

In an ultrasound examination, a transducer both sends the sound waves and records the echoing waves. When the transducer is pressed against the skin, it directs small pulses of inaudible, high-frequency sound waves into the body.

If required, a transvaginal ultrasound (internal) scan may be performed. A transvaginal ultrasound is sometimes used to better visualise and examine the reproductive organs (womb and ovaries) in women.

Transvaginal ultrasound is performed very much like a gynecologic exam and involves the insertion of the transducer into the vagina after the patient empties her bladder. You will usually need to lie on your back on a couch. A lubricated probe (the size of a tampon) is inserted two or three inches into your vagina.

Preparations for a Pelvic Scan

A full bladder helps to visualize the uterus, ovaries, and bladder wall for a transabdominal ultrasound. You should drink up to 2 pints of water about one hour before the scan.