Transvaginal Ultrasound

Why do I need a transvaginal ultrasound?

The term “transvaginal” means “through the vagina.” But it’s not anything surgical or painful. By inserting a very small probe into your vagina, sound and vibration energy capture live images of your organs and connective tissues. Your technician can capture video, pictures, and sounds of your reproductive organs and even your growing fetus.

There are a number of reasons why your OB/GYN might request a transvaginal ultrasound — from preventive to diagnostic. You might need this simple test to:

• Evaluate the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes
• Diagnose lower abdominal pain
• Examine your placenta fro possible placenta previa
• Find the cause of abnormal bleeding
• Confirm early pregnancy
• Assess cervical length

In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound is also used to monitor the heartbeat of your growing fetus.

What happens during a transvaginal ultrasound?

You need to undress from the waist down for your transvaginal ultrasound — you’re given a drape or gown to wear if needed. All you have to do is lie back on the table and place your feet in foot holders.

With your guidance and assistance, your technician helps insert the transvaginal probe into your vagina. Once it’s in place, they move it around as needed to capture images of all of your surrounding organs.

The entire transvaginal ultrasound at TLC Perinatal PA typically takes less than 5 minutes. Once your ultrasound is complete, you can sit and relax for a few minutes while your technician has a physician evaluate your images.

As long as the doctor can see everything they need on those images, your transvaginal ultrasound is complete and you can return to all of your normal activities afterwards. If your OB/GYN needs additional images, they may also request a transabdominal ultrasound during the same visit – this is performed over your abdomen.

Do I need a full bladder for a transvaginal ultrasound?

In many cases, yes. Filling up your bladder by drinking at least 32 ounces of water before your transvaginal ultrasound helps push your intestines over and lift up your pelvic organs for clearer pictures.

Depending on the reason behind your transvaginal ultrasound, your OB/GYN might request that you have a full or partially full bladder or may ask you to empty your bladder immediately prior to the transvaginal exam. In any case, the team at TLC Perinatal PA lets you know every step of the way.

Book your exam and transvaginal ultrasound at TLC Perinatal PA by clicking on the online scheduler. You can also call your nearest office directly.