Pelvic Ultrasound Procedure
A pelvic ultrasound is an imaging study used to view the reproductive organs. It can help evaluate a pelvic mass, find the cause of pelvic pain or bleeding, or evaluate for suspected pelvic disease. More often than not, ultrasound confirms that the pelvic organs are normal and healthy.
Pelvic ultrasound is a painless procedure performed by placing an ultrasound wand into the vagina, or scanning across your abdomen, or both. We can usually obtain the best view of the ovaries using the vaginal wand. Abdominal ultrasound gives us a better look at certain structures. In most cases both vaginal and abdominal ultrasound are required to obtain a comprehensive look at pelvic anatomy.
Pelvic Ultrasound Consultation
We won’t leave you “in the dark” regarding your pelvic ultrasound study. During your visit a board certified Ob/Gyn physician will consult with you, explaining ultrasound findings in detail. A report is also sent to your referring provider.
Pre-Ultrasound Hydration
We need you to have an empty bladder for the first part of the ultrasound (vaginal scan), THEN we need your bladder somewhat full for the second part (abdominal scan). We ask you to drink fluids two hours before your appointment so your bladder will begin to fill quickly, even though you’ll empty it before the procedure. There is no need to “hold it” until the ultrasound is started. Simply follow the instructions below.
Please follow these instructions to prepare for your ultrasound
2 Hours Before Your Appointment Time:
• Begin drinking at least 24 ounces (3 cups) of water or other fluid.
1 Hour Before Your Appointment Time:
• You should be finished drinking 3 cups of fluid by one hour prior to your appointment.
• It’s okay to drink in addition to the 3 cups during the next hour if you like.
• It’s okay to empty your bladder at any time, and you will be asked to do so just prior to the ultrasound procedure.
10 Minutes Before Appointment Time:
• Please arrive 10 minutes early to complete a brief questionnaire.
