Why would a gynaecologist do an ultrasound? The gynaecological community has relied on ultrasound technology since the 50s. This fast, safe, detailed, and non-invasive tool can be used to examine patients. Using soundwaves, ultrasound machines create images of the reproductive organs. Ultrasounds are a powerful diagnostic tool that allows doctors to work out treatment plans and ensure better outcomes for patients. Doctors rely on different types of ultrasound methods to diagnose many conditions and monitor the health and development of fetuses.
Why Do You Need a Gynaecological Ultrasound?
The soundwaves an ultrasound emits bounce off the tissue and bones inside your body to reveal an image on the ultrasound screen of your internal organs. A doctor may recommend an ultrasound to observe blood flow, joint inflammation, thyroid glands, and breast lumps, among other things. In gynaecology, the device is used to examine your reproductive organs, such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus. If you are experiencing various symptoms and a physical examination has not provided the necessary answers, the gynaecologist will recommend an ultrasound. Ultrasounds are recommended before CT scans, MRIs, and laparoscopies because they are a safe and non-invasive way to detect abnormalities.
What Symptoms Lead a Gynaecologist To Do an Ultrasound?
A lot of symptoms and conditions can be linked to gynaecological issues. Some of the most common signs and circumstances which call for ultrasound are:
If you are pregnant, a doctor will conduct an ultrasound to detect issues, monitor the development of the fetus, estimate the due date, and rule out an ectopic pregnancy.
If you are experiencing pelvic pain, an ultrasound can be used to find the cause of the pain.
If you are experiencing fertility issues, a doctor may be able to identify the reason for it.
If you experience heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods, a doctor might be able to find the cause.
During menopause, it’s common for doctors to use ultrasound to diagnose related conditions.
What Can a Gynaecological Ultrasound Diagnose?
A doctor can diagnose a broad range of conditions with a clear view of your reproductive organs.
An ultrasound helps diagnose:
- Fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Adenomyosis
- Ovarian cysts – benign and malignant
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Structural abnormalities of the uterus
- Endometrial and Cervical Polyps
- Blockages in the fallopian tubes
- Viable pregnancies
- Ectopic pregnancies
- Miscarriage
What Types of Ultrasounds Do Gynaecologists Conduct?
A gynaecologist would use transvaginal, abdominal, or transrectal ultrasound. Which method they use will depend on your symptoms, the types of images the doctor requires, and the reason for the exam. Transvaginal ultrasounds are performed by inserting a wand-shaped transducer into the vagina in the early stages of pregnancy or to examine the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. The images produced are more detailed than an abdominal ultrasound. Abdominal ultrasounds use a larger transducer externally over the abdomen during pregnancy or to observe the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Lastly, during a transrectal ultrasound, a small wand is inserted into the rectum to view the uterus and ovaries.
Ultrasound is a safe and versatile tool used by doctors, gynaecologists, obstetricians, and sonographers to detect abnormalities and diseases throughout the human body. Owing to the complexity of the reproductive system, this has become a critical tool for gynaecologists to treat women across the globe. If you are pregnant or experiencing symptoms similar to those mentioned above, book an appointment with a gynaecologist today for your ultrasound.