Gynaecological Transvaginal Ultrasound Scan

• 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

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 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.

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

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

Whilst it is an exciting time, preparing for IVF can be psychologically and emotionally demanding.

The Birth Company have been working alongside Hypnotherapist Ailsa Frank to ease the fertility journey for patients. Hypnotherapy may lower stress and anxiety experienced during fertility treatment.

You can find these hypnotherapy recordings by downloading the 'Feel Amazing' App

• Fertility Boost
• IVF Journey
• Pregnancy Loss

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 specialist sonographers. 

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.

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 empty your bladder or complete any necessary registration forms. 

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.