Transvaginal us Obstetric
About Test
Transvaginal Ultrasound is often used by obstetricians to confirm early pregnancy and to calculate the due date. It shows clear pictures of your baby, cervix, and placenta. In this exam, a probe which is a transducer, is inserted through the vagina. It transmits sound waves to and from the body to create images on the attached computer. Transvaginal ultrasound can detect fetal heart rate even in the very early pregnancy, while an ultrasound performed per abdomen won’t be able to do so.
Why and when do you need this test?
Your doctor will advise this test if you have missed your periods and you want to know if you are pregnant.
A vaginal obstetric ultrasound can tell about the following;
- Confirmation of pregnancy (by detecting a heartbeat).
- Number of babies (multiple fetuses)
- Calculation of gestational age and expected due date.
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Evaluation of the cervix to determine future risks of premature birth
- Detect abnormalities in the placenta
- To check for the source of bleeding (if present)
Do you need to prepare for the test?
This test needs no special preparation.
- You may need to wear loose, easy clothing to remove your pants for the test.
- You will be given clear instructions regarding eating and drinking.
- You may need to come with a full or empty bladder according to your doctor’s advice.
What can you expect?
- To begin with the procedure, you will lie down on the table with your knees bent, and your legs will be supported on the special supporting stands (stirrups) for the legs.
- The radiologist will place a condom on the transducer probe, over which she will apply a lubricating gel.
- After this, she will project the transducer slowly into the vagina.
- You may feel a little pressure as she moves the transducer to get various images from different angles.
- After the exam, you may return to daily activities normally.
- The procedure lasts for about 30 minutes but may take longer.
Are there any risks to this test?
Transvaginal ultrasound is a safe procedure. It does not use X-rays.
Let the doctor know if your water has broken before the exam.
The condom or the covering sheath on the transducer may have latex. Let the doctor know if you are allergic to latex.
What do the test results mean?
The transvaginal ultrasound would be able to tell about the following;
- If there is any problem with your ovaries, uterus, or cervix
- A small baby as per gestational age
- Problems with the placenta
- Presence of twins, triplets, or more.
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Endometrial fibroids,
Related Tests:
Other related tests may include:
- Obstetric ultrasound performed per abdomen
- Blood test to confirm pregnancy
