What is a pelvic ultrasound?
Ultrasound utilizes a transducer to send and receive sound waves, and this information is used to create a real time image. As a result of this ability, and the safe application of sound waves (ultrasound), ultrasound is a leading diagnostic tool. There is no radiation associated with ultrasound.
Pelvic ultrasounds are a diagnostic exam used to assess internal organs in both men and women.
Female pelvic Ultrasounds – During a female pelvic ultrasound, a sonographer (ultrasound technologist) uses a transducer to acquire images of the internal soft tissue organs. These structures and spaces are documented for review by the doctor, a radiologist. Using these images, the radiologist will compile a report for the referring physician regarding the anatomy of that patient. Two methods can be used to acquire these diagnostic images. It is very important that the patient arrives for this exam with a full bladder as it allows for visualization of the pelvic organs. The ultrasound technologist will tell you if, and when, you can empty your bladder during the time of the exam.
- Transabdominal (through the abdomen) ultrasound. A transducer is placed onto the abdomen/pelvis with a couplet gel that allows sounds waves to pass to and from the transducer.
- Transvaginal (through the vagina). An endovaginal transducer with a sterile probe cover is inserted by the patient into the vagina. This can offer a view of the entire uterus and ovaries. This method is only used with the consent of the patient. The patient will be able to empty their bladder before the endovaginal ultrasound is performed.
The type of ultrasound performed depends on the reason for the ultrasound, and how well the anatomy can be visualized. Only one method may be used, or both methods may be indicated to provide the information needed for diagnosis or treatment.
Beam also has an initiative called the Intrauterine Assessment Program (IAP) that uses 3D ultrasound to evaluate IUD placement, both before and after insertion, to improve clinical outcome and management.
Click here to learn more about the intrauterine assessment program, or IAP. Male pelvic Ultrasounds – A male pelvis ultrasound allows for the observation of male pelvic organs including the bladder, prostate gland, surrounding blood vessels, and kidneys. This ultrasound is performed using only the transabdominal approach. It is very important that the patient arrives for this exam with a full bladder as it allows for visualization of the pelvic organs. The ultrasound technologist will tell you if, and when, you can empty your bladder during the time of the exam.
