Purpose
Ultrasound is a simple, safe and non-invasive method of evaluating the female pelvic organs.
Preparation
If the main area of interest is the pelvis so you will be asked to attend with a full bladder. In this case you will be required to drink water prior to the examination.
The full bladder displaces bowel loops out of the pelvis and provides a window through which the pelvic structures may be examined.
Procedure
You will be required to lie on the bed next to an ultrasound machine. The doctor or ultrasound technician will apply a jelly to the skin surface to improve contact between the probe and the skin.
The ultrasound probe will then be moved smoothly and painlessly over the skin surface. Depending on the clinical circumstances, an examination may last from 5 to 20 min.
The doctor or ultrasound technician may need to proceed with an internal ultrasound examination. This is dependent on the clinical indication. The radiologist will be consulted before the ultrasound technician proceeds with this type of examination.
After Procedure
The ultrasound gel is water-soluble and easily cleaned. Normal activities may be continued immediately after the procedure.