Transvaginal Ultrasonography

An ultrasound tests utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create images of patient’s internal organs. Transvaginal refers to “through the vagina”. A transvaginal ultrasound is used to doctor to examine female reproductive organs. Unlike a regular pelvic ultrasound, during transvaginal ultrasound, the ultrasound wand rests on the outside of pelvis. The procedure involves your doctor to insert an ultrasound probe about two to three inches inside your vaginal canal.

When a transvaginal ultrasound is required?

There are different reasons which necessitate having a transvaginal ultrasound, which include:

• An ectopic pregnancy (when fetus implants outside the uterus, generally in the fallopian tubes)
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Infertility
• An abnormal abdominal or pelvic exam
• For placement of Intrauterine device (IUD)
• Checking for uterine fibroids or cysts
• Pelvic pain

Many a times, physician recommends a transvaginal ultrasound during pregnancy to:

• Identify any sources of abnormal bleeding
• Examination of placenta for any type of abnormalities
• Look at the cervix for any changes that could lead to premature delivery or other complications
• Monitor the heartbeat of fetus

What happens during a transvaginal ultrasound?

During the procedure, you will lie down on the examination table with your feet in stirrups. Your physician will use a condom to cover the ultrasound wand and using lubrication gel, the wand will be inserted into the vagina. Once the wand has been placed, it will suspend sound waves that will bounce off your internal organs to provide inside pictures of pelvic to your physician’s monitor. The physician will slowly move the wand around while it is still inside your body. This helps to offer a comprehensive picture of your internal organs for variety of purposes.
A transvaginal ultrasound helps to diagnose different conditions, including but not limited to:

• Pelvic infection • Miscarriage • Fetal birth defects • Placenta previa • Fibroids • Cysts • Cancer • Ectopic pregnancy