Ultrasound Services for Women

Ultrasound Scans

Pelvic (gynaecology) ultrasound scan

A Pelvic ultrasound scan is the most effective imaging modality used to examine the uterus and ovaries when indicated by abdominal and pelvic pain or menstrual problems; such as heavy and painful periods as well as abnormal intermittent bleeding. This scan can detect cysts, fibroids, endometrial thickening and numerous other uterine and ovarian abnormalities. This ultrasound is useful for examining kidneys, bladder, appendix, uterine arteries and for assessment of infertility causes. It is also useful if there is concern about the position of an intrauterine contraceptive device.

There are two methods of performing pelvic ultrasound: transvaginal (via the vagina) and transabdominal (through a full bladder). For transvaginal ultrasound, no specific preparation is required, but for transabdominal ultrasound you will need a full bladder for the scan and will be advised on how much water to drink and how long before the examination.

Transvaginal Ultrasound

This type of ultrasound is usually used to examine the uterus, endometrium and ovaries. You will be asked to lie on your back with your knees bent and legs apart (it’s like you were having a smear test or an internal examination). The sonographer will lubricate a small probe with gel and then insert this into the vagina. This may be slightly uncomfortable, but should not be painful. This type of scan is quite short. 

Transabdominal Ultrasound

For this type of scan, you will be asked to fill the bladder with fluids so it will be possible to examine the uterus and ovaries behind it. Because of the distance between the transducer and the organs of interest, information might not be as accurate and the sensitivity of the scan is not as good compared to the transvaginal approach. There are times when it is necessary to gather more precise and detailed information and transvaginal or internal ultrasound will also be indicated. For transabdominal scan, you will be asked to lie on your back and the transducer moved back and forth across your belly.

If you have any of the following symptoms you must do a Pelvic Ultrasound Scan as soon as possible.

• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Heavy periods or unexplained bleeding
• Period pains
• Bleeding after menopause
• Ovarian cysts, fibroids or Endometrial polyps
• PCOS
• Difficulty conceiving
• Endometriosis

Fertility ultrasound scan

A follicle tracking ultrasound scan is performed to measure the size of any follicles. It helps to estimate when ovulation is likely to occur and can increase patient’s chances of conception, both naturally and with the help of fertility treatment. 

An endometrial thickness scan measures the thickness and appearance of the lining of the womb called the endometrium. Checking the lining helps to monitor the changes within the uterus in response to fertility drugs, which are used to stimulate the uterus or monitor the changes that occur in a normal cycle. It also can accurately predict when ovulation is expected to be at its peak so can increase patient’s chances of conception. 

Typically 2-3 follicle tracking scans are required during a single menstrual cycle. To ensure maximum accuracy a transvaginal ultrasound scan is required to survey the uterus, endometrium and ovaries.

Results from your ultrasound examination will be available straight after your follicle tracking appointment. We will provide a copy for you and/or your gynaecologist or fertility clinic.  

If hormone blood tests are also required, this can be arranged.

Abdominal ultrasound scan

An abdominal ultrasound is used to examine the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, spleen, aorta, pancreas, and blood vessels of the abdomen. In addition, this ultrasound helps to detect stones in the kidneys and gallbladder, various cysts, and some tumours. It can also detect a fatal condition called an abdominal aortic aneurysm that can be prevented by early detection.

The sonographer uses warm gel and an ultrasound probe to look at all the solid upper abdominal organs. Several different positions are used to examine all of the organs from lying on your back to your right and left side. 

A full ultrasound report will be sent to your doctor so the results can be discussed in depth.

Note: You must be fasting for at least 6-7 hours prior to the scan. Be prepared to spend at least thirty minutes at the clinic for this test.