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Pelvic Ultrasound
A pelvic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to image the pelvic organs. The bladder is also visualized and must be full for this exam. For women, it assesses the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes and ovaries through the lower abdomen, with Doppler to show blood flow; it is usually accompanied by a transvaginal ultrasound, a quick, painless exam that gives a more detailed view. For men, it assesses the bladder, prostate gland and surrounding structures.
How to Prepare
Eat normally. Empty your bladder 2 hours before your appointment, then drink 32 ounces of water. Finish drinking all 32 ounces one hour before your exam. Do not empty your bladder before your exam.
Common Reasons for This Exam
Women:
- pelvic mass
- pelvic pain
- fibroids
- absent periods (amenorrhea)
- endometrial hyperplasia
- pelvic inflammatory disease
- urinary obstruction
- heavy, frequent or irregular periods
Men:
- pelvic pain
- pelvic mass
- difficulty or urgency passing urine
- prostate enlargement
What This Ultrasound Can Find
Women:
- bladder stones, cysts or masses
- fibroids, polyps
- IUD position
- ovarian torsion
- endometriosis
- ectopic pregnancy
Men:
- cysts or masses
- benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- prostatitis, enlarged seminal vesicles
- stones in the bladder
- seminal vesicles, prostate or ejaculatory ducts
Note: Every exam is read by a board-certified radiologist.
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