Female Pelvic Ultrasound
Female PelvicUltrasound
Essential information
A female pelvic ultrasound is used to assess the uterus, ovaries, bladder, and surrounding pelvic structures.
It is commonly requested to investigate symptoms such as pelvic pain, irregular bleeding, painful periods, bloating, or concerns raised during a physical examination or from blood tests. The scan helps detect ovarian cysts, fibroids, polycystic ovaries, endometrial changes, and other abnormalities.
A pelvic ultrasound provides detailed real-time images using sound waves and is often the first investigation recommended for gynaecological symptoms. You should consult your doctor to ensure any further tests or onward referrals are arranged.
Why should I choose MedicalUltrasound.co.uk for my female pelvic ultrasound?
- Experienced Sonographer Led Examinations
Your female pelvic ultrasound is performed by an experienced Sonographer trained in gynaecological imaging, ensuring accurate assessment of pelvic organs. - Focused Pelvic Organ Assessment
The scan is tailored to assess the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, where visible, and surrounding pelvic structures, based on your symptoms or referral reason. - High Quality Transabdominal and Transvaginal Imaging
We use modern ultrasound technology to provide clear, real-time images through transabdominal and, where appropriate and with consent, transvaginal approaches to optimise diagnostic accuracy. - Safe, Non-Invasive and Radiation-Free Investigation
A pelvic ultrasound does not use radiation and is suitable for repeated assessment. Transvaginal scanning is optional and only performed with informed consent. - Clear Gynaecological Reporting for Your GP
A signed clinical report is produced following your scan and shared with your GP or referring clinician to support diagnosis, monitoring, or onward referral where required.
Medical Ultrasound provides structured pelvic imaging that supports accurate gynaecological assessment within your wider healthcare pathway.
How long is the appointment
The appointment usually takes around 20 minutes to complete.
How much does it cost?
The cost of this scan is £95.
You can combine this scan with any other scan for an additional £60
This may not be possible for specialist packages such as musculoskeletal or vascular scans, because only Sonographers with specific expertise will be able to carry out those examinations.
When should you get a Female Pelvic Ultrasound?
You may be advised to have a pelvic ultrasound if you have symptoms or findings that need closer assessment. This scan helps identify structural causes of pelvic or menstrual symptoms.
A pelvic ultrasound may be appropriate if you have
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Irregular, heavy, or absent periods
- Pain during intercourse
- Bloating or lower abdominal fullness
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Suspected ovarian cysts or fibroids
- Symptoms of PCOS
- A known gynaecological condition requiring monitoring
- A request from your GP or specialist
- Follow up after previous pelvic imaging
A pelvic ultrasound is often chosen as a first-line test because it is safe, quick, and does not use radiation.
How should you prepare for the scan?
You will be asked to attend with a full bladder. Please drink around 2 pints of water before your appointment unless told otherwise. You will be given specific instructions when you book your appointment so that the correct preparation is followed.
A full bladder helps improve the visibility of the pelvic organs.
What will you experience during the examination?
The examination will be carried out by a qualified Sonographer. The scan is non-invasive and painless. Warm gel will be applied over the lower abdomen, and the Sonographer will move a small transducer across the area to obtain detailed images.
You may be asked to change position slightly to help visualise the uterus and ovaries. If clinically appropriate and only with consent, a transvaginal scan may be recommended for clearer detail, although this is not always required.
You are welcome to ask questions during your examination.
When do you get the results?
We will send a signed report of our findings to your doctor. You should arrange a follow-up appointment with your GP, who will explain the results.
Your doctor is best placed to discuss the findings because they will have access to your full medical history, blood tests, and any other investigations.
Female Pelvic Ultrasound FAQs
At MedicalUltrasound.co.uk, diagnostic accuracy, clinical clarity, and patient reassurance are central to every examination. This FAQ guide covers the most common questions about female pelvic ultrasound, including when it is recommended, which pelvic organs are assessed, the difference between transabdominal and transvaginal scanning, and what happens after your appointment.
The information explains how a female pelvic ultrasound is used to assess the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding pelvic structures in relation to symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, menstrual irregularities, fertility concerns, or findings on examination or blood tests. It also outlines the role of pelvic ultrasound in monitoring known gynaecological conditions and guiding further investigation where required.
Each question is presented in two parts.
A Short answer for quick reference
An In-depth answer to provide a clinical explanation and context
Whether you have been referred by your GP or are arranging a private scan, this guide is designed to help you understand the purpose of a female pelvic ultrasound, what to expect during the examination, and how the results support diagnosis, reassurance, or onward care, delivered by experienced diagnostic Sonographers.
What is a female pelvic ultrasound?
It is a scan used to assess the female reproductive organs.
A female pelvic ultrasound is a non invasive imaging test that uses high frequency sound waves to create real time images of the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding pelvic structures. It is commonly used to investigate pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, fertility concerns, or abnormal examination findings. The scan provides structural information that supports diagnosis, monitoring, or referral when clinically indicated.
What organs are examined during a pelvic ultrasound?
The uterus, ovaries, and surrounding pelvic structures are assessed.
A pelvic ultrasound examines the uterus, endometrial lining, ovaries, and adjacent pelvic tissues. Depending on the referral reason, the scan may also assess the bladder and surrounding anatomy. The fallopian tubes are not usually visible unless abnormal. The exact organs assessed are tailored to your symptoms and clinical question.
How long does a pelvic ultrasound take?
Most scans take around 20 to 30 minutes.
The duration of a pelvic ultrasound depends on whether a transabdominal scan alone is performed or whether a transvaginal scan is also required. More detailed assessment or limited visibility may slightly extend the scan time. The procedure is performed in real time and does not require recovery afterward.
Is a pelvic ultrasound painful?
No. It is generally painless.
A transabdominal pelvic ultrasound is painless. A transvaginal ultrasound may cause mild pressure but should not be painful. You can ask the Sonographer to pause or stop at any time. The examination is carried out with care and respect, and your comfort is prioritised throughout.
Can a pelvic ultrasound help with fertility assessment?
Yes. It provides important information about reproductive organs.
Pelvic ultrasound is commonly used as part of fertility assessment. It can evaluate ovarian volume, follicle development, uterine shape, and endometrial thickness. These findings help guide further fertility investigations or treatment planning when considered alongside blood tests and specialist input.
Can a pelvic ultrasound detect endometriosis?
It may identify indirect signs but cannot rule them out.
A pelvic ultrasound can identify ovarian endometriomas and some secondary signs of endometriosis. However, mild or deep endometriosis may not be visible on ultrasound. A normal scan does not exclude the condition. Further imaging or specialist referral may be required if symptoms persist.
Can a pelvic ultrasound detect endometriosis?
It may identify indirect signs but cannot rule them out.
A pelvic ultrasound may detect masses or abnormal appearances of the uterus or ovaries that raise concern. However, ultrasound cannot diagnose cancer on its own. If suspicious findings are seen, your GP may arrange further imaging, blood tests, or referral to gynaecology for definitive assessment.
Does pelvic ultrasound detect cancer?
It can identify masses but cannot diagnose cancer alone.
A pelvic ultrasound may detect masses or abnormal appearances of the uterus or ovaries that raise concern. However, ultrasound cannot diagnose cancer on its own. If suspicious findings are seen, your GP may arrange further imaging, blood tests, or referral to gynaecology for definitive assessment.
Can a pelvic ultrasound be repeated safely?
Yes. It is safe for repeated examinations.
A pelvic ultrasound does not use radiation and is safe for repeat imaging. This makes it suitable for monitoring known conditions such as cysts or fibroids, and for follow-up assessment when symptoms change. Repeat scans are commonly used as part of planned clinical monitoring.
Do I need a GP referral for a pelvic ultrasound?
A referral is helpful but not always required in private settings.
A pelvic ultrasound is often requested by a GP or specialist, but private scans may also be booked directly. Regardless of how the scan is arranged, it is important that the results are shared with your GP so they can be interpreted alongside your medical history and arrange appropriate follow-up.
What happens if my pelvic ultrasound is normal?
A normal scan is reassuring, but does not always end the investigation.
A normal pelvic ultrasound rules out many structural causes of symptoms and is often reassuring. However, some conditions do not show on ultrasound. If symptoms persist, your GP may recommend blood tests, further imaging, or referral to a gynaecologist to continue assessment.
What happens if my pelvic ultrasound is normal?
A normal scan is reassuring, but does not always end the investigation.
A normal pelvic ultrasound rules out many structural causes of symptoms and is often reassuring. However, some conditions do not show on ultrasound. If symptoms persist, your GP may recommend blood tests, further imaging, or referral to a gynaecologist to continue assessment.
Can a pelvic ultrasound detect ovarian cysts?
Yes. Pelvic ultrasound is the preferred imaging method for identifying ovarian cysts.
A female pelvic ultrasound is highly effective at detecting ovarian cysts and assessing their size, location, and internal appearance. It helps differentiate between simple fluid-filled cysts, which are often benign and may resolve on their own, and more complex cysts that may require monitoring or further investigation. Ultrasound is also commonly used to monitor known cysts over time and assess whether they are changing in size or appearance.
Will a pelvic ultrasound show fibroids?
Yes. Uterine fibroids can be clearly identified and measured.
A pelvic ultrasound can detect fibroids within the uterus and provide detailed information about their size, number, and position. Fibroids may be located within the uterine wall, inside the cavity, or on the outer surface. Identifying these features helps your GP understand whether fibroids could be contributing to symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, or pain, and whether monitoring or referral is appropriate.
Can a pelvic ultrasound explain irregular periods or abnormal bleeding?
Yes. It can identify structural causes related to the uterus or ovaries.
A pelvic ultrasound can detect fibroids within the uterus and provide detailed information about their size, number, and position. Fibroids may be located within the uterine wall, inside the cavity, or on the outer surface. Identifying these features helps your GP understand whether fibroids could be contributing to symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, or pain, and whether monitoring or referral is appropriate.
Do I need a full bladder for a pelvic ultrasound?
Yes. A full bladder improves visibility for transabdominal pelvic imaging.
For a transabdominal pelvic ultrasound, a full bladder helps lift the pelvic organs into a clearer viewing position and improves image quality. You will usually be advised to drink water before the scan and avoid emptying your bladder. If a transvaginal scan is required, you may then be asked to empty your bladder before that part of the examination.
Is an internal pelvic ultrasound always required?
No. A transvaginal scan is optional and only performed when appropriate.
An internal or transvaginal pelvic ultrasound is recommended only when clearer images are needed to assess the uterus or ovaries. It is not mandatory and is performed only with your informed consent. Many pelvic concerns can be assessed with a transabdominal scan alone. The Sonographer will explain why an internal scan may be helpful and answer any questions before proceeding.
Can a pelvic ultrasound detect early pregnancy problems?
Yes. It can identify some early pregnancy findings, depending on timing.
Pelvic ultrasound can detect early pregnancy structures such as a gestational sac and help assess causes of pelvic pain or bleeding. However, very early pregnancies may not yet be visible, and follow-up scans may be needed. In some cases, a dedicated early pregnancy ultrasound pathway is more appropriate. Your GP will advise based on symptoms, dates, and clinical findings.
Can I have a pelvic ultrasound during pregnancy?
Yes. A pelvic ultrasound is safe during pregnancy when clinically indicated.
Ultrasound does not use radiation and is considered safe throughout pregnancy. A pelvic ultrasound may be performed to investigate pain, bleeding, or known gynaecological conditions during pregnancy. The scan is adapted to gestational age and clinical need, and only relevant views are obtained to support safe assessment without unnecessary examination.
Will medication affect the results of a pelvic ultrasound?
Usually not. Most medications do not interfere with imaging.
Most prescribed or over-the-counter medications do not affect pelvic ultrasound images. Hormonal treatments, such as contraceptives or fertility medications, may influence the appearance of the endometrium or ovaries, which is taken into account during interpretation. Your GP will consider ultrasound findings alongside your medication history, symptoms, and blood test results.
Can a pelvic ultrasound detect polycystic ovaries?
Yes. It can show ovarian features associated with PCOS.
A pelvic ultrasound can identify ovarian features commonly seen in polycystic ovary syndrome, such as increased follicle number and enlarged ovarian volume. These findings support a diagnosis when combined with clinical symptoms and hormonal blood tests. Ultrasound alone does not diagnose PCOS, but it provides important structural information used as part of a broader assessment.
Can a pelvic ultrasound detect polycystic ovaries?
Yes. It can show ovarian features associated with PCOS.
A pelvic ultrasound can identify ovarian features commonly seen in polycystic ovary syndrome, such as increased follicle number and enlarged ovarian volume. These findings support a diagnosis when combined with clinical symptoms and hormonal blood tests. Ultrasound alone does not diagnose PCOS, but it provides important structural information used as part of a broader assessment.
Will the Sonographer tell me the results during the scan?
The final results are provided in a formal written report.
The Sonographer may explain what they are assessing during the examination, but they do not usually provide a diagnosis or clinical interpretation. A signed ultrasound report is prepared after the scan and sent to your GP or referring clinician. Your doctor will review the findings in context and discuss their significance and any next steps with you.
To book, call: 0141 221 2496 or email[email protected]
To book, call: 0141 221 2496 or email[email protected]
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