Pelvic Ultrasound
Procedure Scheduling: (319) 398-6868
What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is an easy noninvasive way to see internal structures of the body. It sends high-frequency sound waves through the skin and produces images of major organs. In a pelvic examination, the female pelvic organs can be observed.
A probe, called a transducer, is placed on the skin or in the vagina and sends a brief pulse of sound into the body. When the sound hits an object, such as the pelvic organs, an echo of the sound travels back to the transducer. A high-speed computer “translates” the echo into an image on the TV monitor.
Why should I have a pelvic Ultrasound?
Information from a pelvic ultrasound supplements that obtained from a manual gynecological exam. It gives an objective picture of your anatomy and can help explain findings of a manual exam.
Will it hurt?
There is no pain involved in an ultrasound exam although there may be some discomfort from maintaining a full bladder. To provide a better contact between the transducer and the skin, a gel-like material is applied to your abdomen and the instrument is then placed on the skin surface.
Newer high-frequency probes have recently been developed that are placed directly into the vagina. They are smaller than the instrument used in routine pap smears. The main advantage for the patient is that for this type of probe, the bladder does not need to be filled. Ultrasound examinations using a vaginal probe are not painful. Inserting the probe is like using a tampon, and you may insert it yourself or the technologist will do it for you.
Will I have an abdominal or a vaginal Ultrasound?
For patients 18 and younger, a full bladder is required if you are not sexually active. Patients over 18, a transvaginal probe will be used - an empty bladder is required.
The exam takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending upon how quickly the necessary information is obtained.
Preparation:
A full bladder is required if you are 18 or younger, and are not sexually active. You are asked to drink 4-6 large glasses of water an hour before the exam. The reason for this is that high-frequency sound waves used in the ultrasound travel well through liquid, but not through gas and air; it is important to fill the urinary bladder with fluid to displace the bowel and provide a clear view of the pelvic organs.
Follow-up:
The results of your exam will be sent to your doctor.
Scheduling/Registration:
All ultrasound exams need to be scheduled by your physician’s office.
IF YOU ARE HAVING THIS PROCEDURE AT MERCY MEDICAL CENTER : Park in the Mercy Medical Center Parking Ramp, located at the corner of 8th Street and 8th Avenue SE . You will be pre-registered, so you can proceed directly to the Radiology department. Located on Ground floor down from Emergency Department.
IF YOU ARE HAVING THIS PROCEDURE AT THE MERCY HEALTH PLAZA IMAGING CENTER: The Imaging Center is located in the NE corner of the Plaza next to Galaxy Theatres, at 5264 Council St. NE. Park in front of the building. You will be pre-registered, so you can proceed directly to the Reception desk.
Your appointment date and time:
