Women's Clinic


Ultrasound

What is a Transvaginal Ultrasound?

Transvaginal ultrasound is a method of imaging the genital tract in women. The ultrasound machine sends out high-frequency sound waves, which bounce off body structures to create a picture. With the transvaginal technique, the ultrasound transducer (a hand-held probe) is inserted directly into the vagina. It is therefore closer to pelvic structures than with the conventional transabdominal technique (with the probe on the skin of the abdomen), providing superior image quality.

How is the test performed?

You will be lying down on a table. The transducer is a long probe, covered with a condom and a sterile lubricant, that is inserted into the vagina. The health care provider will then move the probe within the vaginal cavity to scan the pelvic structures.

How do I prepare for the test?

The examination is done with your bladder empty. Sometimes, a transabdominal ultrasound is done just before a transvaginal ultrasound to look at organs in your abdomen. If so, you may be asked to drink several glasses of water without voiding before the transabdominal exam. Then, you will be asked to empty your bladder after the transabdominal test and before the transvaginal exam.

How will the test feel?

There may be mild discomfort from the pressure of the vaginal probe.

Why is the test performed?

Transvaginal ultrasound is used to evaluate a variety of abnormalities of the female genital tract. Some of these include the endometrium of women with infertility problems or abnormal bleeding; sources of unexplained pain; congenital malformations of the uterus and ovaries; ovarian tumors and cysts; possible pelvic infection; and causes of infertility.

Normal Values

The pelvic structures and/or fetus are normal.

What does abnormal results mean?

Abnormal endovaginal ultrasound results may be due to many conditions. Some of the abnormalities that may be found in non-pregnant women include:

What are the risks?

There is no documented biologic effect on patients with the use of current ultrasound techniques. No ionizing radiation is involved. Call Women’s Clinic at (310) 203-8899 to schedule your Ultrasound appointment!