Transvaginal ultrasound is an imaging procedure that uses sound waves emitted through the vagina to examine a woman's reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, cervix, and vagina. This type of ultrasound is an internal examination, because it will insert an ultrasound that resembles a 5-7 cm long stick into the vagina.
Transvaginal ultrasound generally lasts for 30-60 minutes and the results can be known quickly. The procedure, also known as endovaginal ultrasound, will be recommended by doctors to detect abnormal conditions in the uterus or check the health of the unborn child.
Reasons for Transvaginal Ultrasound
The doctor can recommend this procedure to check for the following conditions:
- Pelvic pain
- Infertility
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Cysts and myomas in the uterus
- The procedure for further examination of the results of an abnormal pelvic examination
- Ensure contraception in the womb or spiral KB is placed correctly
Transvaginal ultrasound can also be done during pregnancy, generally in the 8th week of pregnancy. This procedure can also provide a clearer picture of the uterus early in pregnancy. In addition, the doctor will also recommend this procedure for pregnant women with the following possible goals:
- Ensuring pregnancy
- Observing fetal heart rate
- Check for abnormalities in the placenta
- Look for sources of abnormal bleeding during pregnancy
- Diagnose possible miscarriages
- Check for possible risks of pregnancy complications, such as premature birth
So far, the transvaginal ultrasound procedure has no dangerous risk because it does not have radiation exposure, so it is considered safe for pregnant women and fetuses. Even so, some women may feel uncomfortable during the procedure, especially when the ultrasound stick is inserted through the vagina. This discomfort is quite mild, and will disappear after the procedure.
Transvaginal Ultrasound Preparation and Procedure
Usually the transvaginal ultrasound procedure does not require much preparation. However, based on the purpose of the procedure, the doctor may ask you to start the procedure in an empty or partially full urinary tract.
The full urinary tract can provide a clearer picture in the pelvic area. If you must start the procedure with a full bladder, drink plenty of fluids at least one hour before the procedure begins.
When the procedure starts, the doctor will ask you to lie on your back with your legs open while bending your knees. Then, the doctor will insert an ultrasound stick (transducer) that has been given a condom and lubricating gel into the vagina. After that, the ultrasound stick will display a picture of the inside of your hips on the screen. During the examination, the doctor will gently rotate the ultrasound stick to display a clearer picture.
Transvaginal ultrasound results can be received within 24 hours. From the results of these tests, the doctor can observe the development of the fetus, diagnose various conditions in the uterus. These include cancer, pelvic infection, ectopic pregnancy, cysts, myoma, miscarriage and placental abnormalities such as placenta previa. Then, the doctor will discuss the right treatment for you based on the results found.
Transvaginal ultrasound procedures will generally be recommended by a doctor for specific indications. If necessary, ask for further explanation from the doctor before starting the procedure.
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