Patient Blog

Pelvic Ultrasound: How to Prepare and What to Expect

Published on: October 24, 2024 | PocketHealth
A patient getting a pelvic ultrasound

If you have an upcoming pelvic ultrasound, you may have questions about what to expect. In this guide, we’ll cover what happens during the procedure, the conditions it can help diagnose, how long you’ll wait for results, and what those results might reveal.

While this guide outlines potential findings, your doctor will provide your official diagnosis and next steps during your follow-up appointment. For those who prefer early access, PocketHealth offers secure, instant access as soon as your report is uploaded. This gives you a chance to review your results and prepare questions for your doctor in advance.

 

Early access to your ultrasound images and reports

 

What is an ultrasound of the pelvis?

A pelvic ultrasound is a medical imaging procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to capture images of your internal structures and organs. These sound waves are emitted by a wand-like device called a transducer, which sends echoes back after bouncing off your internal organs. The resulting images are displayed on a screen and saved for further evaluation by a radiologist.

 

What is a pelvic ultrasound used for?

Various pelvic ultrasounds

Various pelvic ultrasounds

Pelvic ultrasounds are commonly performed on patients assigned female at birth (AFAB), but they are also used for patients assigned male at birth (AMAB). In AFAB patients, pelvic ultrasounds often assess organs such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries, vagina, uterus, and cervix. For AMAB patients, the scan may focus on the bladder and prostate.

Pelvic ultrasounds can help detect a wide range of conditions. Here are some common findings:

  • Hernias: The protrusion of part of your organ through a muscle wall, such as in the abdomen.
  • Kidney stones: Pelvic ultrasounds are more useful when this calcification has moved through the ureter towards the bladder. CT scans tend to be the more common scan for stones, but many doctors prefer to start with an ultrasound to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure and because they are usually faster to schedule.
  • To check IUD Positions: When intrauterine devices for birth control are inserted, it’s common to use an ultrasound to check the IUD position.
  • Bladder cancers: Tumors, changes in bladder shape and other abnormalities will be reflected with this scan.
  • Ovarian conditions: Examples include cysts, torsion and PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome).
  • Pelvic conditions: Examples include prolapses, pelvic inflammatory disease and growths.
  • Ectopic pregnancy: Ectopic pregnancy is when the fertilized egg implants somewhere besides the uterus, such as in the fallopian tubes.
  • Tumors: These could be found anywhere in the pelvic region, including gynecologic organs.
  • Endometriosis: When tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus.
  • Scrotal and testicular conditions: Examples include injuries, infections and cancers.
  • Prostate conditions: Examples include inflammation and cancer.
  • Early pregnancy scans: Prenatal scans in early pregnancy are usually performed via pelvic ultrasound.

What are the different types of pelvic ultrasound?

Depending on the area being scanned, you may undergo a specific type of pelvic ultrasound. There are four variations:

  • Transvaginal ultrasound: This scan assesses reproductive organs by inserting the transducer into the vagina. It is only used for AFAB patients.
  • Abdominal ultrasound: This method takes images of your organs using the transducer externally on your lower abdomen. It is non-invasive and can be used for evaluating patients of all sexes and genders.
  • Prenatal ultrasound: This ultrasound assesses fetal growth throughout the pregnancy. Early prenatal ultrasounds may be transvaginal, but as the fetus grows, they are usually abdominal and non-invasive.
  • Rectal ultrasound: Commonly used to evaluate the prostate in AMAB patients, it can also be used for patients of all sexes and genders to scan for cysts, growths and rectal or anal cancers. The transducer is inserted into the rectum to perform this scan.

How to prepare for a pelvic ultrasound?

Preparation for your pelvic ultrasound may vary depending on the type you are having, but most preparations are similar. Here is what to except:

Before your scan

  • Ask your doctor about specific preparations: It’s common for ultrasounds to be performed with a full bladder, as this can help tilt organs out of the way, allow the sonic waves to travel further, and create clearer images. However, there are exceptions, so confirm the preparation requirements ahead of time.
  • Ask about deposits due: It may be helpful to inquire with the billing department in advance about any fees or patient portions due before the scan.
  • Bring your requisition form: Along with your requisition, also remember to bring your health card an ID.
  • Wear comfortable, accessible clothing: Some facilities may provide a hospital gown, but many allow patients to wear their own clothes if they are two-piece and accessible. It’s helpful to wear clothing that’s easy to remove and put back on.

During your scan

  • If necessary, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any obstructive clothing. It is common to be allowed to wear your own clothes if they are accessible.
  • You will lie on an exam table, usually on your back for most ultrasound types. For rectal ultrasounds, you will lie on your side.
  • For an abdominal ultrasound, a clear gel will be applied externally to your stomach, and the technician will move the transducer over your abdomen. For transvaginal ultrasounds, the transducer will be lubricated and inserted into your vagina. For rectal ultrasounds, the transducer will be lubricated and inserted into your rectum. You should not feel any pain, though it may be slightly uncomfortable. Let the technician know if you experience discomfort.
  • The technician will view the images on a screen as the scan proceeds, capturing the most relevant angles. These images will be reviewed later. If you have a full bladder, you may be asked to empty it during the scan or maintain a full bladder for the entire procedure.

After your scan

After the imaging is complete, you will be provided with something to clean off the gel, and if applicable, you may empty your bladder.

Unless instructed otherwise, most ultrasounds have no requirements after the scan is performed. You should be able to go about your day as usual. If you have any unexpected pain, bleeding or other issues, contact your doctor immediately. Fortunately, it is rare to have any such reactions.

Getting my results

Here are some common questions patients have regarding their pelvic ultrasound results.

When will I get my results?

Pelvic ultrasound result turnaround times depend on the radiologist’s and your referring doctor’s schedules. It can sometimes take a week or more, especially if you receive them at your follow-up appointment.

With PocketHealth, you can get your results much faster. You’ll have secure access as soon as they’re uploaded, meaning you’ll likely see them before your upcoming appointment. This gives you time to review the findings and prepare for your next medical visit. MyCare Navigator is especially helpful for offering personalized insights and identifying any recommended follow-up steps within your report. It helps you formulate relevant questions to ask your doctor so you can make the most of your consultation.

 

Get early access to your ultrasound results

Ultrasound Results

 

Who interprets my results?

Medical imaging is usually interpreted by a specialist called a radiologist, who reviews various scans to help evaluate and diagnose injuries and conditions. This information is then passed to your referring provider, who will incorporate their own assessment. For instance, if you have a history of certain symptoms, they may use that data alongside the imaging to arrive at a more specific diagnosis.

Understanding my results

Although your doctor will explain your results to you, accessing your report before your appointment can give you an early preview. When reviewing your report, it’s common to find the medical terminology complex and confusing. PocketHealth Report Reader simplifies this by offering clear, straightforward definitions for medical terms—simply tap or click on any underlined words to reveal their meaning. This guide will briefly discuss some common findings in pelvic ultrasound reports.

A normal vs abnormal pelvic ultrasound

Ultrasound of a normal uterus

Ultrasound of a normal uterus

The technical terms in your report can feel overwhelming. Here is an overview of some common ultrasound findings and what they may mean.

For normal ultrasound results:

  • Uterus size/position: If it falls within regular size ranges (6-10 cm long) it will indicate it by a measurement or the term, “normal.” The report will also describe the position, which is most commonly pointing up (anteverted).
  • Endometrium: This is the inner lining of the uterus. Normal results will fall within expected ranges of thickness.
  • Ovaries: Normal ovaries have no cysts or growths and fall within expected size ranges.
  • Prenatal evaluation: Normal results will indicate expected fetal growth as well as a healthy placenta.
  • Other organs and structures: When there is no inflammation, injury or growths on the area being scanned, such as the bladder, prostate etc.

Abnormal results could possibly indicate:

  • Growths/lesions: Abnormal growths, tumors or lesions can be found in any number of places within the pelvic region. While they can sometimes indicate cancers, it is quite common for these types of growths to be benign. You’ll likely need further testing to confirm diagnosis.
  • Endometrial thickening: If the endometrial lining is abnormally thick, it can indicate endometrial hyperplasia, which can cause irregular or heavy menstrual cycles and increase risks for endometrial and uterine cancers. Early detection helps doctors prescribe preventative treatments.
  • Ovarian conditions: Cysts, torsion and other conditions will be evident.
  • Fetal abnormalities: If there are any irregularities in the development of the fetus, the doctor will be able to assess and evaluate for treatments and testing.
  • Infection: Pelvic inflammatory disease or other such conditions will be shown.
  • Enlargement of the organs: This can indicate inflammation or disease, such as an enlarged prostate.
  • Kidney stone: For kidney stones that are near the bladder or in the ureter, the ultrasound can show where they are and their approximate size.
  • Other conditions: There are multiple organs and structures in the pelvic region. This means injuries, inflammation, infection and other abnormalities can vary greatly.
Uterine ultrasound with a possible fibroid growth

Uterine ultrasound with a possible fibroid growth

 

Frequently asked questions

Here is a quick guide to frequently asked questions regarding pelvic ultrasounds.

How long does a pelvic ultrasound take?

Most pelvic ultrasounds are only 15 to 30 minutes. If the patient is pregnant or there are other complexities, it may take longer.

Is a pelvic ultrasound painful?

Abdominal ultrasounds are particularly non-invasive. Other types, such as transvaginal or rectal ultrasounds, may cause some minor discomfort, but they should not be painful. Consider communicating any discomfort to your ultrasound technician so they can try to accommodate you. If you have a prior pelvic floor disorder that makes the transducer uncomfortable for insertion, you may want to ask your doctor if there are any alternatives or preparations they can suggest.

What can a pelvic ultrasound show?

A pelvic ultrasound may not show every detail or condition, but it should be a good starting point for discovering and assessing lesions, growths, inflammation, tissue thickening and organ size and position. If there are findings that need clarification, additional imaging such as MRIs or CT scans may be suggested.

Can a pelvic ultrasound detect bowel problems?

A pelvic ultrasound isn’t typically used to diagnose bowel problems but can sometimes detect indirect signs, like:

  • Bowel wall thickening: Seen in conditions like Crohn’s or colitis.
  • Bowel obstruction: Distended bowel loops may suggest an obstruction.
  • Masses: Large tumors near the bowel might be visible.

For more detailed evaluation of bowel issues, tests like CT scans, MRIs, or colonoscopies are usually preferred.

What is the average pelvic ultrasound price?

Depending on the complexity and thoroughness of the area being scanned, pelvic ultrasound prices can range from $200 to $1,000. Fortunately, most insurance plans cover a good portion of this cost. If you are concerned about pricing, you may want to talk to the imaging facility’s billing department to get an idea of patient costs and whether any payment or assistance programs are available.

 

Stay on top of your health with PocketHealth

Keeping track of your medical reports and ultrasound scans is simple with PocketHealth. All of your vital imaging is in one protected location and accessed anytime you need. When used in conjunction with your medical provider’s professional advice, it is a powerful tool to organize and understand the progress of your health.

 

Related Posts