Pelvic ultrasound examination

A pelvic ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging examination used to visualize the organs within the pelvis. In women, this includes the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and bladder, while in men it includes the prostate, testes, and bladder. This examination helps assess the size, shape, and structure of these organs and detect possible pathological changes.

What Is a Pelvic Ultrasound?

Ultrasound imaging uses high-frequency sound waves that reflect off organs and tissues, creating real-time images on a monitor. This method is safe because it does not use ionizing radiation. A pelvic ultrasound can be performed in two ways:

• Transabdominal ultrasound: the ultrasound probe is placed on the abdominal wall.
• Transvaginal (for women) or transrectal (for men) ultrasound: the ultrasound probe is inserted into the vagina or rectum to obtain more detailed images.

During the procedure, the pelvic organs are examined in detail to identify cysts, tumors, inflammatory processes, or other abnormalities.

When Is a Pelvic Ultrasound Performed?

This examination is commonly performed when the following pelvic organ-related conditions are suspected or diagnosed:

• Abdominal pain: unexplained abdominal pain or pelvic discomfort.
• Menstrual disorders (in women): irregular, heavy, painful, or absent menstrual periods.
• Uterine bleeding (in women): unexplained abnormal uterine bleeding.
• Ovarian cysts or tumors (in women): to assess their size, structure, and changes over time.
• Uterine conditions (in women): fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, and tumors.
• Infertility: as part of a diagnostic evaluation of pelvic organ anatomy and function.
• Urinary symptoms: frequent urination, painful urination, or blood in the urine.
• Bladder disorders: inflammation, stones, or tumors.
• Prostate conditions (in men): enlarged prostate, prostatitis, or tumors.
• Testicular disorders (in men): inflammation, cysts, or tumors.
• Pregnancy confirmation: during the early stages of pregnancy.

What Happens During the Procedure?

A pelvic ultrasound is performed while the patient is lying on their back. A special gel is applied to the skin to improve the transmission of ultrasound waves, and the ultrasound probe is moved across the abdominal area. If a transvaginal or transrectal ultrasound is being performed, the probe is gently inserted into the vagina or rectum. Images are displayed on a monitor in real time throughout the examination. The procedure is painless and usually takes approximately 15-30 minutes.

• Before a transabdominal ultrasound, it is recommended to have a full bladder.
• Before a transvaginal or transrectal ultrasound, it is important to empty the bladder.

Interpretation of Results:

The ultrasound images are interpreted by a radiologist, gynecologist, or urologist. The specialist evaluates the size, shape, and structure of the pelvic organs, looking for abnormalities such as cysts, fibroids, polyps, tumors, inflammatory changes, or fluid accumulation. The findings are provided in a written report. These results serve as important information for the treating physician, helping establish an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.