What is a Pelvic Ultrasound?
A pelvic ultrasound provides pictures of the structures and organs in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
Pelvic ultrasound typically includes two parts:
- abdominal (transabdominal)
- vaginal (transvaginal, endovaginal) for women
In women, a pelvic or abdominal ultrasound is most often performed to evaluate the:
- bladder
- ovaries
- uterus
- cervix
- fallopian tubes
Ultrasound examinations can help diagnose symptoms experienced by women such as:
- pelvic pain
- abnormal bleeding
- other menstrual problems
It can help identify:
- palpable masses such as ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids
- ovarian or uterine cancers
A transvaginal ultrasound is usually performed to view the endometrium or the lining of the uterus and ovaries. Transvaginal ultrasound also affords a good way to evaluate the muscular walls of the uterus, called the myometrium. Sonohysterography allows for a more in-depth investigation of the uterine cavity. These exams are typically performed to detect:
- uterine anomalies
- scars
- endometrial polyps
- fibroids
- cancer, especially in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding
Some physicians also use sonohysterography for patients with infertility. See the Sonohysterography section for more information.
In men, a pelvic or abdominal ultrasound is used to evaluate the:
- bladder
- seminal vesicles
- prostate
In men and women, a pelvic ultrasound exam can help identify:
- kidney stones
- tumors
- other disorders in the urinary bladder
Doppler ultrasound images can help the physician to see and evaluate:
- blockages to blood flow (such as clots)
- narrowing of vessels (which may be caused by plaque)
- tumors and congenital malformation
For more information please visit www.radiologyinfo.com.