Pelvic ultrasound may use an external abdominal approach, an internal transvaginal approach or both to assess the uterus, ovaries, bladder and surrounding structures.
Why may pelvic ultrasound be requested?
Pelvic ultrasound may help investigate pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, infertility, ovarian cysts, fibroids, uterine or ovarian masses, urinary symptoms and pregnancy-related concerns. It can also contribute to assessment of deep endometriosis when performed with an appropriate specialised protocol.
External pelvic ultrasound
For a transabdominal scan, gel is placed on the lower abdomen and the probe is moved over the skin. A full bladder can move bowel out of the way and create an acoustic window that helps show the uterus, ovaries and bladder. Follow the bladder instructions supplied by the clinic.
Transvaginal ultrasound
A transvaginal ultrasound uses a narrow covered probe placed gently into the vagina to obtain closer, higher-resolution images of the pelvic organs. The examination will be explained and is performed only with your consent. You can ask questions, request a chaperone where available, decline the internal examination or ask for it to stop at any time.
The internal scan may cause pressure or mild temporary discomfort but should not be significantly painful. Tell the sonographer if you are uncomfortable, have a history of trauma, have not had an internal examination previously or need the examination modified.
What can and cannot be diagnosed?
Ultrasound can show the size and appearance of the uterus and ovaries, cysts, fibroids, some masses, fluid and blood flow. However, symptoms and imaging findings do not always match. Small superficial endometriosis may not be visible, and complex disease can require MRI, blood tests, specialist review or surgery.
When a mass is found, ultrasound may describe features that help estimate the level of concern, but imaging alone cannot always determine whether tissue is benign or malignant. Follow-up imaging or biopsy may be required.
After the examination
No recovery time is normally required. The report is sent to the referring clinician, who interprets the findings alongside your symptoms, examination and other tests.
Related Patient Guides
- PG3001 Ultrasound Scan: What to Expect Before, During and After Your Appointment
- PG3002 Preparing for an Ultrasound: Fasting, a Full Bladder and Other Instructions
- PG3003 Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Dynamic Tendon, Ligament, Nerve and Joint Assessment
- PG3004 Vascular and Doppler Ultrasound: Arteries, Veins and Blood Flow
- PG3006 Breast and Axillary Ultrasound: Lumps, Symptoms and Follow-Up
- PG3007 Thyroid and Neck Ultrasound: Nodules, Lymph Nodes and Biopsy
- PG3008 Paediatric Ultrasound: A Guide for Parents and Carers
- PG3009 Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound and Elastography: Advanced Ultrasound Explained
- PG3010 What Ultrasound Can and Cannot Show: When MRI, CT or Other Tests May Be Needed
We have more detailed information on many interesting regenerative and radiological topics on our Insights page
Frequently Asked Questions
For other FAQs please visit our FAQs page
Do I have to have a transvaginal ultrasound?
No. It is performed only with consent. An external scan may still be possible, but it may provide less detail for some questions.
Can pelvic ultrasound exclude endometriosis?
No. A specialised scan can detect many forms of deep structural disease, but a normal ultrasound does not exclude superficial endometriosis.
Can I have the scan during my period?
Often yes. Timing depends on the clinical question. Contact the clinic if you are unsure or if the referral requests a particular cycle phase.
| Important: Tell the sonographer about pain, pregnancy possibility, previous pelvic surgery and any concerns about an internal examination before it begins. |
PATIENT GUIDE • PG-3005 [Patient information: Pelvic ultrasound may use an external abdominal approach, an internal transvaginal approach or both to assess the uterus, ovaries, bladder and surrounding structures.]
