The Advantages and Benefits of Transvaginal Ultrasound Imaging

The Advantages and Benefits of Transvaginal Ultrasound Imaging

What is a transvaginal ultrasound?

Ultrasound refers to high-frequency sound waves. These sound waves are used in ultrasound examinations to create a picture or image on a screen showing your body’s inside. A trained health practitioner such as a radiologist, sonographer or sonologist performs an ultrasound.

transvaginal ultrasound

Transvaginal ultrasound is a female pelvic examination. It is useful to check for any abnormalities in the uterus (womb), cervix (womb neck), endometrium (womb lining), ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or pelvic cavity. It examines the pelvic organs within the vagina using a transducer, a smooth, thin, portable device.

A transvaginal ultrasound is a rapid and painless imaging procedure that gives a more detailed image of your pelvic organs than a typical abdominal ultrasound. Your clinician may order this imaging treatment to investigate the source of your symptoms, diagnose a condition, monitor your pregnancy, or plan for surgery. It’s one of the most popular and valuable diagnostic methods your doctor can use to help you.

All the ultrasound transducers emit high-frequency sound waves, which are reflected in various ways by distinct soft tissue, structures, or regions of the body. These sound waves are transformed into electrical impulses, which cause a moving image to appear on a screen.

There are numerous advantages to using an ultrasound. It is painless and doesn’t require radiation, making it extremely safe. Unless a doctor specifically asks for it, there will be no injections. The high-frequency sound waves imply that images have a high level of detail and can examine even the smallest sections of the body. 

 

When should a transvaginal ultrasound be done?

A transvaginal ultrasound may be required for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Improper pelvic or abdominal examination
  • Ectopic pregnancy and pelvic discomfort (which occurs when the foetus implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes)

ectopic pregnancy

  • Unidentified vaginal bleeding

abnormal vagina bleeding

  • An examination for cysts or uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids

  • Infertile confirmation that an IUD is correctly put

IUD in Vagina

Your doctor may also advise you to have a transvaginal ultrasound in pregnancy to
  • Keep an eye on the foetus’s heartbeat
  • Examine the cervix for abnormalities that could result in miscarriage or early delivery.
  • Check the placenta for any abnormalities.
  • Determine the cause of any internal bleeding
  • Determine the possibility of a miscarriage
  • Confirm a possible early pregnancy

 

How to prepare for a transvaginal ultrasound?

Transvaginal ultrasound usually takes little preparation on your part. Your bladder may need to be empty or somewhat full, depending on your doctor’s recommendations and the purpose of the ultrasound. A full bladder helps to elevate the intestines and provides a better view of your pelvic organs.

If your bladder has to be full, drink 32 ounces of water or another liquid approximately an hour before the operation begins. If you need a transvaginal ultrasound on periods, remove any tampons you wear.

 

What happens during a transvaginal ultrasound?

In the examination room, you will be requested to undress from the waist down after emptying your bladder, and wear a gown. After that, you will be instructed to lie on an examination bed. In most cases, a sheet is supplied to cover you. The unique transducer will be put into the vagina once you bend your legs.

Process of Transvaginal ultrasound

The transducer is slightly bigger than a tampon and is precisely designed to fit comfortably inside the vaginal cavity. A protective cover is placed over the transducer to ease insertion, and warm lubricant gel is applied. Images are taken when it is softly moved about the inside of the pelvis.

Your lower abdomen may be pushed with the examiner’s hand to bring some pelvic organs nearer to the transducer for clearer images.

The exam is performed in “real-time,” which means that the images on the screen depict the interior of your pelvic (lower abdomen) tract. During the examination, still images are also taken. The probe is properly sterilised and sanitised at the end of the test.

 

Consult Dr. Divyatha Jayaram for expert opinion

If you are seeking a transvaginal ultrasound from a trusted gynecologist, Dr. Divyatha Jayaram is highly qualified and has 17 years of experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Being one the most renowned  gynaecologists in Abu Dhabi, she is very passionate about her patients and constantly updates herself with the latest techniques. Book your appointment today!