What is a pelvic ultrasound?
How should I prepare for the pelvic ultrasound examination?
What does the ultrasound equipment look like?
What will I experience during the exam?
How will I be notified of the results of my exam?

What is a Pelvic Ultrasound?
This is an examination of the organs located in the pelvic region of the body. In females, anatomical structures examined include the uterus, ovaries, urinary bladder, cervix and fallopian tubes. It can also be useful in monitoring the development of the fetus during pregnancy. In males, the examination can also be used to evaluate the urinary bladder.

How should I prepare for the Pelvic Ultrasound examination?
Your urinary bladder must be very full before the exam can be performed. The full bladder is necessary to transmit the ultrasound images back to the transducer. You will need to drink 32 ounces of liquid (water, tea, coffee) prior to the exam. Be careful to time the drinking so that your bladder is full and somewhat uncomfortable at the scheduled time of your exam. If your bladder is not full at the time of your exam, you will be asked to drink more water and go back into the patient waiting room.

What does the Ultrasound equipment look like?
The equipment consists of a transducer, a monitor and a cart that contains the electronics used to process the returning echoes. Most transducers are rectangular and vary slightly in size and shape. Transducers used to examine anatomy located in the pelvis are cylindrical so they can be inserted into the vagina. These transducers are small in diameter so they should not make you feel uncomfortable if used during your exam.

What will I experience during this exam?
You will be asked to lie on your back for the exam. Warm gel will be applied to your bladder area and a transducer will be inserted into the gel so that the technologist and effectively transmit ultrasound and receive echoes from your body. Since you will have a full bladder, the movement of the transducer over your bladder will probably be somewhat uncomfortable. As soon as the technologist has obtained the images necessary to complete this part of the exam, you will be allowed to use the toilet to empty your bladder. There is usually a second part of the exam that involves the insertion of an intravaginal transducer. This transducer is relatively narrow, so it should not cause you discomfort when inserted.

How will I be notified about the results of my exam?
The radiologist will interpret the findings of your exam and have a report faxed to your physician within 24-hours. Your physician will contact you with results.