While ultrasounds are most often associated with pregnancy, they can be helpful in diagnosing and assessing other medical issues as well. A gynecological ultrasound is a diagnostic exam that uses sound waves to create pictures for your medical provider. You may wonder, what does a gynecological ultrasound show? Below you will find helpful information on the exam and its uses.
What Does a Gynecological Ultrasound Show?
A pelvic ultrasound (also referred to as a “gynecological ultrasound”) uses sound waves to create pictures that show the inside of your pelvis. An ultrasound can help provide a clearer picture of your uterus, vagina, bladder, cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. They can be external or internal depending on your unique medical needs. In addition to monitoring pregnancies, ultrasounds can help determine and diagnose a variety of issues. Some of the issues include the following:
- assessing ectopic pregnancies
- checking an intrauterine device (“IUD”)
- examining potential causes for abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain
- evaluating fertility issues
- examining cancerous and non-cancerous growths
- examining any anatomical issues within your pelvis.
Gynecological Ultrasound Preparation
You will be given instructions on how to prepare based on what type of ultrasound you are getting. If you having an external ultrasound, it is common to keep your bladder full. Drinking lots of liquids before your appointment is helpful. It is recommended that you drink around two to three 8 ounces cups of water one hour before your ultrasound. A full bladder creates a reservoir of fluid that improves the sound waves as they move through your abdominal cavity. If you are having a transvaginal ultrasound, you’ll need to empty your bladder beforehand. This is helpful for a variety of reasons. It not only reduces any potential discomfort, but it can also limit the distortion of the uterus during this type of ultrasound. It’s best to wear loose and comfortable clothing to the procedure.
Pelvic Ultrasound Process
It’s best to arrive early and follow the instructions given to you beforehand. The ultrasound process itself is very fast and usually takes just 15 to 20 minutes. If you are getting an external ultrasound, the technician will use gel to help the transducer (also referred to as a “wand”) move smoothly on your skin. A transvaginal exam proves similar in the sense that the transducer also stays covered in gel (in addition to a plastic or latex covering for safety purposes) for smooth insertion. The process remains not painful. But you may experience slight discomfort. You should know which type of ultrasound you will have in advance so no surprises come up. After the ultrasound finishes you most often can return back to your normal activities the same day.
Post-Ultrasound Exam Results
You likely won’t get your results right away. After your ultrasound the results will be analyzed by a skilled radiologist trained in women’s imaging. Gynecological interpretation is necessary for your overall health so it’s important to have experienced professionals look at your ultrasound. The interpretation can provide an understanding of the normal changes in your gynecological organs, in addition to any abnormalities that can impact your long-term health. The team at BreastGyn Imagers provides reliable interpretation services for gynecological imaging in Texas.
Many people put off pelvic ultrasounds due to fear and anxiety about the results. However, they are an effective and beneficial tool that can help your medical provider understand more about your current health and wellness. If your medical provider recommends a gynecological ultrasound, it’s important to schedule an appointment right away. Contact the team at BreastGyn Imagers today for an appointment! They provide fast, detailed, and accurate results you can rely on.