Ultrasound, transvaginal

Procedure Information

What is a transvaginal ultrasound?

Ultrasonography uses high-frequency sound waves that are sent to generate images of your pelvic organs. These high-frequency sound waves are sent by a device called a transducer. The sound waves are recorded and changed into photographic or video images. 

A transvaginal ultrasound is used to examine the female reproductive organs. This includes the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It can also be used during pregnancy to show images of the amniotic sac and placenta. Ultrasound for pregnancy could be a transabdominal ultrasound or transvaginal ultrasound. 

In a transvaginal ultrasound, a wand-like device called a transducer is placed in your vagina to send out sound waves and collect the reflection of these waves to produce images. 

Why would I get a transvaginal ultrasound?

A transvaginal ultrasound can be used early in pregnancy to determine the gestational age if this is uncertain or unknown. It also provides a clearer view of the ovaries or the uterus if a problem is suspected.

An ultrasound might be performed earlier in your pregnancy to determine:

1. If there is more than one fetus present
2. Your gestational age (the age of your fetus)
3. Later in pregnancy, ultrasound is helpful in determining: 
4. Placenta location
5. Fetal well-being
6. The expected weight of the baby
7. Position of the baby
8. Amount of amniotic fluid around your baby

There are other reasons for getting transvaginal ultrasound other than pregnancy. They include:

1. Verification of the proper placement of an IUD
2. Pain in the pelvis
3. Ectopic pregnancy
4. Unexplained vaginal bleeding
5. Infertility
6. Ovarian cysts and uterine diseases

What happens during a transvaginal ultrasound?

During the procedure, you'll be asked to undress from the waist down. You'll recline on an exam table and place your feet in stirrups. The transducer will be covered in a plastic sheath, like a condom, and be lubricated with gel. Your doctor will place the transducer in your vagina.

What to expect after a transvaginal ultrasound?

Typically, there is no special type of care needed following an ultrasound. However, your doctor may give additional instructions depending on your specific health condition. 

Transvaginal ultrasound is considered to be a safe procedure. It may cause some discomfort, but it doesn’t cause any pain. 

Conclusion

If this was a fetal ultrasound, your doctor will review the test results with you at your next visit. If the procedure was done to help in the diagnosis of other conditions, your doctor will inform you with important findings and what might be changed in the management since a transvaginal ultrasound may be helpful in many conditions like cysts, fibroids, pelvic infection, ectopic pregnancy, and miscarriage.

Citations

Mayo Clinic: Ultrasound

Mayo Clinic: Fetal ultrasound

Cleveland Clinic: Pregnancy: Prenatal Ultrasonography