Gynaecological Transvaginal Ultrasound Scan

A gynaecological transvaginal ultrasound is a scan that looks at your reproductive organs and the surrounding pelvic area. At The Birth Company we can use it to examine your uterus, womb lining also called the endometrial cavity, ovaries and follicles. During the ultrasound scan we can look for any abnormal appearances that may account for any specific symptoms you’ve been experiencing.

Please note that our Sonographer is responsible for providing a detailed ultrasound report and images but is not responsible for the interpretation of ultrasound findings. These findings are to be discussed with your referring physician.

Our Sonographers may ask questions about your fertility treatment and current treatment plan to assist with performing an ultrasound scan and report best suited to your needs. We understand this information can be sensitive in nature. Please let your Sonographer know if you would prefer not to discuss these matters.

We understand this information can be sensitive in nature. Please let your Sonographer know if you would prefer not to discuss these matters. 

 

What are the indications or reasons for having a gynaecological transvaginal ultrasound

• as part of your well woman screening
• to investigate gynaecological symptoms such as pelvic pain, irregular periods or other menstrual problems
• to confirm the diagnosis if we suspect you have a condition such as fibroids or ovarian cysts
• to check on your condition if you have been diagnosed with a problem such as fibroids or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that requires monitoring
• to assess your fertility or assist your doctors if you are undergoing fertility treatment at another clinic

What is a transvaginal ultrasound scan?

Gynaecological ultrasound and some early pregnancy ultrasound scans are routinely performed using a transvaginal probe technique. This technique is used to view the pelvic anatomy optimally, as the ultrasound probe can transmit safe ultrasound waves more directly to the pelvic area. 

There is no clinical risk associated with performing a transvaginal ultrasound scan. Transvaginal ultrasound scans can safely be performed during menstruation and episodes of vaginal bleeding. 

It is important that you understand the procedure that is associated with this examination.

The ultrasound transducer will be placed in the vagina (the probe is prepared using high grade medical disinfectant) 

The transducer will be introduced with a latex / non latex type covering and sterile ultrasound gel.

It will be necessary to move the transducer from side to side, up and down and may be swivelled to obtain ultrasound images of your pelvic anatomy

If you prefer, you may insert the transducer yourself, otherwise the person conducting the examination will do this.

A third person may be present during the examination acting as a chaperone, if required by the sonographer or yourself.

You may request the examination to be stopped at any time during the procedure.   

Please note that we use OptiLube lubrication for Transvaginal Ultrasound Scans.This is to meet with governing body guidelines regarding infection control. If you have a preferred lubrication that has been recommended to enhance fertility, please bring it with you on the day. Our Specialist Sonographer will be happy to use your preferred lubrication. It is possible to perform a transvaginal scan with no external gel on the probe cover. You can discuss this with the Sonographer on the day of your appointment.

Transvaginal Ultrasound Consent

Below is a link to our Transvaginal Ultrasound Consent Form. This must be completed ahead of your appointment to confirm whether you consent or do not consent to having your scan performed transvaginally.

Transvaginal Ultrasound Consent Form 

Contraindications 

If you are a virgin (virgo intacta), guidance determines that transvaginal ultrasound scans are clinically contraindicated. If you have discussed this with your referrer and still wish to proceed with a transvaginal ultrasound scan, we can perform this type of examination for you.

What preparation is required?

For a transvaginal ultrasound scan:

• You should empty your bladder just before your transvaginal ultrasound scan.
• You can have a transvaginal ultrasound scan when you’re having your period, if you are using a tampon you should remove this prior to the examination.
• You’ll need to remove the lower half of your clothing before the transvaginal ultrasound scan. You will be given privacy and a hygienic tissue cover to protect your modesty.

For an transabdominal ultrasound scan:

• You should drink some water about an hour before the appointment and try not to empty your bladder until after the scan
• We recommend that you wear clothes that can easily be pulled up and down to expose your lower abdomen

What can this gynaecological ultrasound scan detect?

During a gynaecological ultrasound scan, our sonographer will examine the shape and condition of your whole reproductive system. We will assess the uterus, endometrial cavity, ovaries and follicles, checking them for abnormalities such as cysts or growths. We will also look for any issues in the surrounding pelvic area.

If you are having a gynaecological ultrasound scan to diagnose or assess gynaecological problems, we will be able to check for:

• Ovarian cysts or polycystic ovaries
•  Fibroids
• Polyps or other growths
• Endometriosis

If you are having the scan as part of fertility assessment or treatment, we can check:

• How healthy your uterus, endometrial lining and ovaries are before you try to conceive
• When you will be ovulating, to help with the timing of natural or assisted conception
• The health and thickness of the endometrial lining can be particularly important for fertility treatment

We can also use the gynaecological ultrasound scan to:

• Detect and locate an IUCD or coil if you have one implanted
• Assess the effect of HRT after the menopause

Is it easy to make an appointment?

Making an appointment at The Birth Company for a gynaecological transvaginal ultrasound scan is simple. We have very flexible appointment times. Same day, next day, evening and weekend appointments are available if you are experiencing symptoms and you need your scan results quickly. All gynaecological transvaginal ultrasound scans are performed by our female advanced sonographers. 

Do you need a blood test?

If your referring clinic or Consultant has requested blood tests on the day of your scan you can book this online. Click here for Blood Test Fees

If you require a quote for multiple blood test types or the type of test you require is not listed, please contact the clinic directly prior to booking. 

Select blood draw £60

Add the type of blood tests/s your require in comments. Our team will inform you of the outstanding fee specific to your specific to your requirements prior to your attendance to the clinic. 

Arriving for your appointment

Please be aware that if you arrive late for your gynaecology, follicle tracking or endometrial lining scan appointment, it may delay the sonographer’s time allocated to writing your ultrasound report, thus delay your report being sent to your designated clinic. This may impact your treatment. Please help us to prevent such delays by arriving before your appointment time, allowing enough time to have your temperature taken, empty your bladder and wash your hands.

What happens after the scan?

We will provide a full gynaecological ultrasound scan report including ultrasound images, that you will be able to share immediately with your GP, fertility specialist or Consultant doctor. The ultrasound report and images are sent electronically to you and your referrer.

Please note that the Sonographer is responsible for providing a detailed ultrasound report, but is not responsible for the interpretation of ultrasound findings. These findings are to be discussed with your referring physician.

 

Useful Information Links

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority

 

Cancellation Policy 

 For cancellations, a full refund of your appointment fee will be given with 24 hours notice. If less than 24 hours notice of cancellation is given, a £50 cancellation fee will be applied. Our full terms and conditions can be found here: Terms and Conditions