Transvaginal Ultrasound

General Description

A transvaginal ultrasound is a procedure that obtains images of the organs in the pelvic cavity using a small-sized transducer that is introduced through the vagina. Like conventional ultrasounds, ultrasound waves are used, which hit the tissues and create an echo that is translated into images with the help of a computer.

Vaginal ultrasound is used in cases where greater detail is needed than what an abdominal ultrasound can provide. With this procedure, the images are clearer, but there is less movement capability, which means the images are obtained from fewer angles.

This procedure is used to observe:

• Uterus
• Cervix (neck of the uterus)
• Vagina
• Ovaries
• Fallopian tubes
• Presence of pregnancy, especially in the early weeks
• Placental location, in case of high-risk pregnancy

When is it indicated?

Transvaginal ultrasound is used in sexually active adult women and teenagers as part of a routine gynecological examination to monitor the health of the ovaries and uterus. It is also used during pregnancy to determine embryonic age, check the length of the cervix, or determine the position of the placenta.

This procedure is particularly indicated when there is pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding, and it helps to diagnose:

• Cysts
• Fibroids
• Polyps
• Benign or cancerous tumors
• Infections
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Uterine pregnancy
• Obstructions or anatomical malformations of the uterus or fallopian tubes that may cause infertility
• Endometrial thickening

How is it performed?

To perform a transvaginal ultrasound, a small device with a latex cover that ensures hygiene is used. A watery gel is applied to the surface to ease its introduction through the vagina.

Once the transducer is in place, the specialist moves it slightly to obtain the necessary images, which are displayed on a computer screen.

Risks

Vaginal ultrasound poses no health risks, even during pregnancy. There is no correlation between this procedure and the possibility of miscarriage.

In very rare cases, slight bleeding may occur after the examination.

What to expect from a transvaginal ultrasound

For a transvaginal ultrasound, the patient lies on a gynecological table without underwear, and a gown or sheet is provided to cover themselves.

It’s possible to feel some discomfort when the transducer is inserted or moved to obtain the images, but it is not painful.

The vaginal ultrasound is performed on an outpatient basis, so hospitalization is not needed before or after the procedure. The exam typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes. The images are displayed in real-time on the monitor, so results are obtained during the procedure.

Specialties that request a transvaginal ultrasound

Transvaginal ultrasounds are conducted in the specialties of gynecology and obstetrics.