A Pelvic Floor MRI is a quick, non-invasive procedure that is great for identifying pelvic floor weakness and diagnosing pelvic floor disorders. Like other MRI scans, it uses a powerful magnetic field, radiofrequency pulses, and a computer to create detailed images of your internal body — without the use of X-rays.
A Pelvic Floor MRI creates detailed images of your pelvic floor — the network of muscles between the pubic bone and spine — and the organs it supports. The scan examines the following areas:
* The posterior compartment: Including the rectum.
* The middle compartment: Including the uterus, cervix, and vagina.
* The anterior compartment: Including the bladder and urethra.
For a successful Pelvic Floor MRI, you will be asked to squeeze or contract your pelvic muscles before relaxing them. This allows your doctor to see how your pelvic floor is functioning and helps identify any issues.
A Pelvic Floor MRI may be recommended for several reasons, including: to assess the structure of the pelvic floor; to evaluate how well the pelvic muscles are working; to determine which parts of the pelvis are damaged; to identify specific muscle defects; to provide information for treatment planning and surgery; and to diagnose pelvic floor dysfunction, including prolapse (one or more pelvic organs falling out of position), or the stretching or tearing of the pelvic floor, which can cause incontinence, pelvic pain, and constipation.
If you are unsure why you have been referred for a Pelvic Floor MRI, we recommend speaking directly with your doctor.
Before a Pelvic Floor MRI, you can eat, drink, and take your medications as normal unless your doctor advises otherwise. If a contrast material is being used, you may be asked to avoid eating for a few hours beforehand, and you will be asked about any allergies to ensure the correct contrast is selected.
Let the radiologist or technician know of any health conditions, recent surgeries, or if you are pregnant — MRI is not recommended during the first trimester unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
If you experience claustrophobia or anxiety, speak to your doctor beforehand, as a mild sedative can often be prescribed.
Before the scan, remove all jewellery and accessories that may interfere with the MRI, including:
* Mobile phones, tracking devices, and electronic watches
All electronic devices must be left outside the scan room.
* Body piercings
Remove all piercings prior to the scan.
* Pens, glasses, and pocketknives
Any metal objects carried on your person must be removed.
* Removable dental work
Remove dentures or retainers before entering the scan room.
* Hairpins, zippers, and other metallic items
Check clothing for any metal fastenings.
* Jewellery, watches, hearing aids, and credit cards
All must be stored securely outside the scan room.
Inform the technologist of any electronic or medical devices implanted in your body, and bring any relevant pamphlets or device information so the team can assess any risks before the scan begins.
You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and empty your bladder before the scan begins. In cases where the MRI is assessing bladder issues, you may be asked to keep your bladder full — this will be discussed with you beforehand.
You will lie on your back on a movable examination table. Straps and bolsters may be used to help you remain still and in the correct position. A device will be attached to your pelvis containing coils that send and receive radio waves.
When ready, the table slides into the MRI unit and the scan begins. The machine is operated from an adjacent room, but a microphone, speaker, and camera allow you to communicate with the technician throughout. Music can be played to help you relax if needed.
During the scan, you will be asked to contract and release your pelvic muscles. Some patients may be asked to bear down or exhale while keeping their mouth and nose closed. The scan typically takes around 15 minutes and is usually performed without contrast. If contrast is required, the procedure will be explained before it is administered.
After the scan, you can leave immediately, particularly if no contrast was used. You may feel slightly warm during and after the scan, and some patients notice a ringing in their ears due to the noise of the machine — both are normal. You can return to your usual activities straight away.
Results can take up to two weeks. You will either be contacted by phone or invited back for an appointment to discuss the findings and a recommended treatment plan.
Detects abnormalities not visible with other imaging methods
MRI can identify issues that may not appear on X-rays or ultrasounds.
Assesses the pelvic floor and organs simultaneously
This helps doctors diagnose disorders involving more than one area at the same time.
Evaluates organ structure and function
MRI can assess both how an organ looks and how well it is working.
Clear and detailed soft tissue imaging
Helps with earlier detection of cancer and monitoring changes in organs over time.
No radiation exposure
MRI is non-invasive and does not expose you to ionising radiation.
Safe after the first trimester of pregnancy
Pregnant women can access diagnosis and treatment safely from the second trimester onwards.
There are very few risks associated with a Pelvic Floor MRI, making it a safe procedure for most patients. The strong magnetic field can cause issues with certain implanted medical devices, particularly those containing metal. This does not occur frequently, and your doctor will discuss any relevant risks with you beforehand.
If you have an implanted device that could be affected, your doctor will likely explore other testing options first. Where an MRI is essential, appropriate precautions will be taken to ensure your safety.
Yes, you can drink water before a Pelvic Floor MRI. Some patients are asked to arrive with a full bladder, and drinking water is an easy way to achieve this. If your bladder needs to be emptied before the scan, allow enough time after drinking to do so beforehand.
On average, a Pelvic Floor MRI takes approximately 15 minutes. This includes time for the pelvic floor contraction and relaxation exercises and any minor adjustments. The scan may take longer if movement affects the clarity of the images.