Gynecological ultrasound

Gynaecological ultrasound – description of the procedure

Gynaecological ultrasound is used to assess female reproductive organs and the structures of the small pelvis.

The examination enables the assessment of the organs of the reproductive system, including the cervix, the ovaries, the rectouterine pouch, the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity and the body of the uterus.

The ultrasound procedure is based on the phenomenon of reflection of ultrasound waves against the structure of the organs – it is a non-invasive technique and the examination itself is safe and painless. Gynaecological ultrasound is performed using a transducer, each time protected by a latex protective cover with a special gel which enables the doctor to obtain a good quality image.

Indications for gynaecological ultrasound:

• bleeding from the genital tract;
• menstrual disorders;
• abdominal and lower abdominal pain;
• lesions in the ovaries, uterus or mucous membrane (e.g. polyps, endometrial hyperplasia), as well as ovarian cysts, polycystic ovary syndrome, myomas;
• abnormal structure of the reproductive organs;
• infertility;
• problems with carrying the child to term;
• placement of intrauterine contraceptives.

Gynaecological ultrasound – preparation

• Duration of the examination: approx. 15-20 minutes.
• The patient is provided with the results of the examination in the form of an impression with the ultrasound image. All documents are printed during the appointment, so the patient receives the original version of the results. The impression is also available online.
• If the patient does not prepare properly, the doctor will not be able to carry out the examination or the obtained result will not be reliable.

The examination requires special preparation:   

• The bladder has to be empty.
• The proper hygiene of the intimate area is required.

The time of the examination is also important:

• patients of childbearing age: the best time for the examination is between days 5-10 of the cycle;
• postmenopausal patients taking HRT: the best time for the examination is between 6-10 days after taking the last tablet;
• postmenopausal patients taking sequential HRT: the best time for the examination is up to the 10th day of the cycle;
• postmenopausal patients taking continuous HRT: the time of the examination is not significant.

A suitable examination date can also be set by the attending gynaecologist.

Sometimes, the examination is performed through the abdominal integuments (using a different probe), e.g. in the case of patients who have not had their first sexual intercourse and have a small hymenal opening, or through the anus.

In the case of the examination carried out through the abdominal integuments, the bladder should be full. This is necessary in order to increase the visibility of the organs. According to the recommendations of the Polish Society of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians, about 1-1.5 litres of still water should be drunk about an hour before the planned appointment.