As women age, their reproductive and sexual health needs change, making regular gynaecologist visits critical. Gynaecologists will assist women through pregnancies, menopause, diseases, infections, and more. To provide such care, doctors will employ diagnostic tools such as ultrasound. An ultrasound test can be conducted in various ways, one of them being transvaginal. If you’re booked for a transvaginal ultrasound, you likely want to know more about it and how long a transvaginal ultrasound takes; let’s discuss it further.
Transvaginal Versus Abdominal Ultrasounds
Ultrasound is typically associated with pregnancy as an external imaging method for monitoring the growth and development of the fetus. In an abdominal ultrasound, the doctor or sonographer moves the transducer over the abdomen to produce images of the internal structures and organs. This method, however, is not always used. The doctor may choose instead to perform a transvaginal or internal ultrasound. This procedure involves inserting a smaller wand-like transducer into the vagina to produce the required imagery, which is then displayed on the ultrasound screen.
Why Doctors May Recommend Transvaginal Ultrasounds
A transvaginal ultrasound offers a detailed view of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, fallopian tubes, and the vagina. For this reason, doctors may use it to monitor and detect various gynaecological conditions. Women experiencing pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, and infertility may need to have a transvaginal ultrasound. It’s also used to locate IUDs and detect cysts, fibroids, and other abnormalities. In pregnancies, doctors often rely on transvaginal ultrasound to observe the very early stages if it is considered a high-risk pregnancy.
The Benefits of Transvaginal Ultrasounds
Transvaginal ultrasound yields detailed imagery, as the transducer is closer to the reproductive organs than in abdominal or pelvic ultrasounds. This clear imagery makes it easier for doctors to observe and diagnose various conditions. As with abdominal ultrasounds, transvaginal ultrasounds are safe and do not expose women to radiation. The procedure is painless and doesn’t take long to complete.
Preparing for a Transvaginal Ultrasound
When women attend abdominal ultrasounds during pregnancy, they are typically asked to arrive with a full bladder and to eat something before their appointment. The fluid in the bladder helps the ultrasound machine produce better images, and the food tends to stimulate the fetus. For a transvaginal ultrasound, you may be asked to have a full bladder, though this isn’t always necessary. In addition, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing for easier access to the lower part of the body.
How Long Do Transvaginal Ultrasounds Take?
Transvaginal ultrasounds typically last between 15 minutes to an hour, varying with the exam’s purpose. The transducer itself is typically inserted for a brief period, and the rest of the time will be spent capturing and reviewing the images.
When Can You Expect the Results?
While the images obtained from the ultrasound are seen in real-time during the examination, the doctor may require additional time to assess the images more thoroughly. If the doctor needs to form a more detailed report, your referring doctor will receive the results the next day (for those who get ultrasound scan done at OMNI).
Transvaginal ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool because it is safe and relatively fast, providing results quickly. As with any medical procedure, asking your doctor questions and addressing any concerns is critical. If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms or it’s time for a check-up, contact a trusted gynaecological healthcare provider today.