What it is
Ultrasound uses sound waves to make a picture of the uterus, the ovaries and the lining of the uterus. No radiation, no dye, no needles.
Most gynecologic scans are transvaginal. A slim probe sits in the vagina, closer to the organs than a scan through the belly. Some visits use both.
Dr. Mueller does the scan herself and looks at the images while you are still in the room.
Why it is done
- Heavy, long or unpredictable bleeding
- Pelvic pain or a feeling of pressure
- A fibroid or cyst felt on exam
- Bleeding after menopause
- An IUD that cannot be felt
- Pain or bleeding in early pregnancy
- Follow-up on a fibroid or cyst already known about
What happens, step by step
- 1
Before you come
Come with an empty bladder unless the office asks you to arrive with a full one.
- 2
Getting ready
You undress from the waist down and lie back with a drape.
- 3
The scan
A covered probe with warm gel goes in and moves to bring each organ into view.
- 4
Measurements taken
Dr. Mueller measures the uterus, the lining and both ovaries.
- 5
Same-day review
She goes through the images with you before you leave.
Questions people ask
- Does a transvaginal ultrasound hurt?
- Most women feel pressure, not pain. Say so if you are sore and Dr. Mueller will change the angle.
- Can I have an ultrasound during my period?
- Yes. Blood in the uterus can make the lining harder to measure, so that part is sometimes timed to another day.
- Do I need a full bladder?
- Only for a scan through the belly. For a transvaginal scan an empty bladder is better.
- Can I drive home after?
- Yes. Nothing is given for pain or sedation.
- How soon do I get results?
- The same visit. Dr. Mueller reads the images with you.
- Is ultrasound safe in pregnancy?
- Yes. It uses sound waves, not radiation.