What is a pelvic ultrasound scan?
A pelvic ultrasound scan is one of the most informative diagnostic methods, providing a detailed image of internal structures without the need for surgery. This examination involves no radiation exposure, making it safe and painless.
In women, a pelvic ultrasound helps to assess the condition of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes and bladder. Using this method, the doctor can determine their size, position and structure, as well as detect the presence of cysts, fibroids, polyps, inflammatory processes or endometriosis. It is also an important tool for assessing the condition of the endometrium and ovaries when planning a pregnancy.
In men, prostate ultrasound is most commonly performed; the seminal vesicles are also examined and bladder ultrasound is carried out. This allows for the diagnosis of inflammation, benign and malignant tumours, as well as an assessment of the condition of the urinary system.
Thus, this examination is a key method for detecting a wide range of conditions at an early stage, enabling the most effective treatment plan to be drawn up.
Indications for a pelvic ultrasound
A pelvic ultrasound is your reliable ally in looking after your health. A doctor prescribes this ultrasound scan to obtain a complete and accurate picture of the condition of your internal organs. Whatever the reason, an ultrasound scan helps to clarify the situation and make the right decision, so that you can have peace of mind about your health, feeling in full control of the situation. It is an important step in modern medicine, allowing you to stay one step ahead of potential problems.
Indications for women
This examination plays a key role in gynaecological diagnosis. A doctor may prescribe it for complaints of lower abdominal pain, particularly if the pain is constant or sharp in nature, as well as for disorders of the menstrual cycle, such as irregular periods, excessively heavy or painful bleeding. It helps to identify the causes of such conditions, including cysts, polyps or fibroids, by accurately assessing their size, shape and location. Furthermore, ultrasound is an integral part of antenatal care for monitoring foetal development and assessing the condition of the uterus; it is also used to diagnose the causes of infertility, to monitor ovulation and to prepare for IVF procedures.
Indications for men
For men, ultrasound is also an important diagnostic tool. A doctor may refer a patient for a pelvic ultrasound if they have complaints related to urination, including frequent urges, difficulty or pain. An ultrasound scan can detect possible prostate conditions, such as prostatitis (inflammation) or an adenoma (benign enlargement). It also helps to assess the condition of the bladder and detect any stones or growths within it. The data obtained provides a clear picture and helps to distinguish between benign conditions and more serious pathologies.
General indications for patients
In addition to specific symptoms, pelvic ultrasound is prescribed for both women and men in a number of general cases. These include suspected inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs, as well as the need to diagnose and monitor any detected growths. This method is also used to monitor treatment outcomes and track the progression of diseases, helping the doctor to adjust the treatment plan. Finally, a preventive ultrasound scan is recommended for all patients at least once a year for the early detection of possible abnormalities, enabling the creation of a ‘baseline’ picture of their health for future comparisons and a timely response to any changes.
Types of pelvic ultrasound examinations
To obtain the most accurate results from pelvic ultrasound examinations, doctors use various methods. The choice of a specific method depends on the aims of the examination, the characteristics of the clinical presentation and the patient’s gender. Each of these methods has its own advantages and provides varying degrees of detail.
Transabdominal ultrasound
This is the best-known and most common method, performed through the anterior abdominal wall. During the procedure, the doctor applies a special gel to the lower abdomen and moves the transducer across the skin. This method of ultrasound examination provides a general overview of the condition of the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus and ovaries. It is suitable for initial diagnosis and is also used when examining men and girls who are not sexually active. It is a completely painless and non-invasive procedure.
Transvaginal ultrasound
This method provides the doctor with a more detailed picture and is considered the most informative for examining the female reproductive organs. It is most commonly used to perform a gynaecological examination under ultrasound guidance. It is carried out using a special probe which is inserted into the vagina. Thanks to the probe’s proximity to the uterus and ovaries, the doctor obtains high-resolution images. This allows for the highly accurate detection of small growths, assessment of endometrial thickness, identification of ovarian cysts, and a thorough examination of the uterus. This method is indispensable when infertility is suspected, as well as for monitoring folliculogenesis and treatment progress.
Proper patient preparation for an ultrasound scan
To obtain the most accurate and informative ultrasound results, it is important to prepare properly for the procedure. The specifics of patient preparation depend on which examination method will be used. Even a slight failure to follow these simple rules can affect image quality, which, in turn, will make it more difficult to reach an accurate diagnosis. It is therefore always advisable to check with your doctor in advance for all the necessary recommendations.
Preparing for a transabdominal ultrasound
The main requirement for this ultrasound scan is a full bladder. It acts as a kind of ‘acoustic window’ through which ultrasound waves can penetrate the pelvic organs more effectively. To achieve this, it is recommended to drink around 1–1.5 litres of still water one hour before the procedure and to refrain from urinating. On the day before the ultrasound scan, you should also avoid foods that cause flatulence, such as pulses, fresh and sauerkraut, brown bread, milk, raw vegetables and fizzy drinks. This will help prevent bloating, which can distort the image and complicate the diagnosis.
Preparing for a transvaginal ultrasound
No special preparation is required for a transvaginal ultrasound, as the probe will be in close proximity to the organs being examined. However, it is recommended that you empty your bladder before the examination so that it does not prevent the probe from getting close to the uterus and ovaries. This will allow the doctor to obtain the clearest and most detailed image possible. The procedure is carried out gently and usually causes no discomfort, whilst its high diagnostic value makes this method indispensable for confirming a diagnosis and planning treatment.
Advantages of having an ultrasound scan at our clinic
Choosing a clinic is always an important and significant decision, as your health and peace of mind depend on it. We understand how important it is to feel confident and comfortable, which is why we have done everything to ensure that your visit to the clinic is as pleasant and effective as possible.
Our key advantages: We have created the ideal conditions to ensure that your healthcare is not only effective but also as comfortable as possible. Put your trust in our specialists to receive an accurate diagnosis and answers to all your questions.
Urologist consultation. If necessary, you can book an appointment with a urologist straight away, without wasting any time.
Experienced doctors. You’ll be in the capable hands of specialists with many years’ experience.
State-of-the-art equipment. We use cutting-edge technology for fast and accurate diagnosis.
Comfortable surroundings. There are no queues, and our consultation rooms offer a calm and peaceful atmosphere.
Quick results. The registration process takes very little time, and you’ll receive your test results on the same day.
