Pelvic ultrasound

What is a pelvic ultrasound?

A pelvic ultrasound is a simple, safe scan used to examine the organs inside your pelvis, including the uterus, ovaries and surrounding areas. It is commonly used to investigate symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, or concerns about conditions including ovarian cysts and fibroids.

The scan uses sound waves to create detailed images of your pelvic organs. It can be performed over the lower abdomen (transabdominal ultrasound) or internally through the vagina (transvaginal ultrasound), depending on your symptoms. Our gynaecology specialists will explain which type of scan is most suitable, and you may sometimes be offered both.

Ultrasound does not use radiation and is safe to use repeatedly, including during pregnancy. At Guy’s and St Thomas’ Specialist Care, pelvic ultrasounds are performed using high-quality imaging at  St Thomas’ Hospital and Wimpole Street Consulting Rooms and Diagnostic Centre. Your results are reviewed by specialist teams to guide your next steps.

Who is a pelvic ultrasound for?

Your consultant may recommend a pelvic ultrasound if you’re experiencing:

• bleeding between periods or after the menopause
• concerns about conditions, such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts or fibroids (non-cancerous growths that can develop in or around the uterus)
• heavy or irregular periods
• pelvic pain

Our gynaecologists may also use a pelvic ultrasound to investigate fertility concerns, monitor known gynaecological conditions or provide reassurance if previous tests have shown changes that need a closer look. You can also explore our fertility services for further assessment and support.

If you’re concerned about your symptoms or your fertility, our consultant can advise whether a pelvic ultrasound is the right investigation for you.

What does a pelvic ultrasound show? 

A pelvic ultrasound provides detailed images of the organs inside your pelvis. It helps assess their size, shape and position and can identify changes that may be causing your symptoms. 

The scan can help show: 

• the uterus, including the womb lining  
• the ovaries 
• fibroids or other growths (like cysts) 
• endometriosis 
• signs of inflammation or infection 
• fluid within the pelvis 
• changes that may need further investigation or follow-up 

Your consultant uses these findings along with your symptoms and medical history to decide what care you might need next. 

Types of pelvic ultrasound we offer 

We offer 2 main types of pelvic ultrasound for adults. The type of scan recommended will depend on your symptoms and clinical needs, and your specialist will explain your options clearly before your appointment.

Transabdominal pelvic ultrasound

Our specialist performs this scan over your lower abdomen using a handheld probe and gel, usually as the first part of the examination, giving an overview of the pelvic organs.

Transvaginal pelvic ultrasound

This scan uses a slim probe that our specialist gently inserts into the vagina to provide more precise and detailed images of the uterus and ovaries.

If you would like more information about the type of pelvic ultrasound recommended for you, our team will be happy to explain this in advance.

If you’d like to learn more about the scan recommended for you, our team will be happy to discuss it before your appointment. Please contact our customer care team with any questions you have. 

How to prepare for your pelvic ultrasound

How you prepare depends on the type of pelvic ultrasound you’re having. We’ll provide clear instructions when you book your appointment.

In general, preparation may include:

• bringing details of any relevant medical history or previous test results
• drinking water before the scan so your bladder is comfortably full for a transabdominal ultrasound
• emptying your bladder before a transvaginal ultrasound
• wearing loose, comfortable clothing

Please contact our team before your appointment if you’re unsure how to prepare or have any concerns. 

What happens during a pelvic ultrasound?

When you arrive, an imaging team member will explain the scan and answer any questions you may have, before you lie down on an examination couch.

For a transabdominal pelvic ultrasound, the sonographer applies gel to your lower abdomen and gently moves a handheld probe over the skin. The gel helps the probe make good contact and improves image quality. You may feel some pressure, especially if your bladder is full, but it should not be painful.

For a transvaginal pelvic ultrasound, you’ll have privacy to undress from the waist down and cover yourself with a sheet. The sonographer inserts a slim probe, covered with a protective sheath and lubricating gel, gently into the vagina. You can ask the sonographer to stop at any time if you feel uncomfortable. This part of the scan should not be painful, although you may feel some pressure.

The specialist team can see images on a screen during the scan and save them to review carefully afterwards.

How long does a pelvic ultrasound take?

A pelvic ultrasound usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes. The appointment’s exact length depends on whether one or both types of scan are needed and how detailed the images must be.

Are there any side effects with a pelvic ultrasound?

A pelvic ultrasound is a safe procedure that does not use radiation. Most people do not experience any side effects.

Some may feel temporary discomfort during the scan, particularly if their bladder is full. This feeling typically resolves immediately after the scan.

Occasionally, you might experience mild cramping (similar to period pains) or light spotting after a transvaginal ultrasound. Both of these usually settle within a couple of days.

Please seek immediate medical care if you develop the following symptoms after a transvaginal ultrasound scan:

• heavy bleeding
• severe pain or cramping
• a fever
• nausea and vomiting

The team will support you if you have any concerns during or after the scan. Don’t hesitate to contact our customer care team with any questions you have. 

Getting your pelvic ultrasound results 

After your scan, our specialist consultant carefully reviews the images. They will discuss the findings with you and explain what they mean. 

In some cases, results may be available quickly. In others, you may need further review or additional tests before we confirm the next steps. Your consultant will explain whether any follow-up is needed and answer any questions you may have. 

If you’re unsure how or when you’ll receive your results, our team can clarify the details. 

Arrange your pelvic ultrasound appointment

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have been advised to have a pelvic ultrasound, our specialist imaging teams are here to help.

Complete our online enquiry form to arrange your pelvic ultrasound appointment, and our team will guide you through the next steps.