What is an Ultrasound Scan?

Ultrasound is a soundwave which travels at a higher frequency than we can hear. Ultrasound machines form pictures by

listening to how these sound waves interact with the different surfaces (tissues) within the human body. These ultrasound

waves are sent into the body by moving a transducer over the surface of the skin. Ultrasound scans can be used to

diagnose a variety of conditions.

Pelvic ultrasound scans can monitor changes in the uterus (womb) and the ovaries. There are two ways of performing a

pelvic scan:

Transabdominal Ultrasound Scan (TAS)

For this scan you will be asked to drink water to fill your bladder. The ultrasound probe is placed on the skin in the lower

part of your abdomen. This type of scan may be enough to gain all the information required, however sometimes a

transvaginal scan will be offered if we need to gain more detailed information.

Transvaginal Ultrasound Scan (TVUS)

For this type of scan, you will be asked to empty your bladder. You will be asked to remove your underwear for the

examination, and you will be covered by a sheet to maintain dignity and privacy. A special probe is placed into the vagina.

The vaginal probe is disinfected before use, covered with a protective latex -free cover, and lubricated with sterile jelly to

make its insertion into the vagina easier and more comfortable. The probe is inserted very gently into the vagina. It is

usually a painless procedure and will feel very similar to having an internal gynaecological examination (but no speculum is

used). This examination can be performed at any time of life – in pregnancy, during menstruation (period) or after the

menopause.

If you have any questions about the procedure, please discuss this with the staff performing the examination or contact the

booking team

Giving my consent

We want to involve you in decisions about your care and treatment. The sonographer will ask you if you are happy for the

scan to go ahead. This is called verbal consent. If you do not wish to have the scan, or are undecided, please tell the

sonographer. It is your decision, and you can change your mind at any time.

Written consent will be obtained from you when you arrive to make sure you are happy to proceed.

Please remember that you can ask the sonographer any questions you have at any time before, during or after your scan. If

you would like more information about our consent process, please speak to the member of staff performing the

procedure.

Are there any risks?

A transvaginal ultrasound is a very safe procedure. Some people may feel mild discomfort or pressure when the probe is

inserted, and occasionally light spotting may occur afterwards. The risk of infection is extremely low, and single-use probe

covers are always used.

Please let the staff know before the scan if you have a latex allergy or if you would prefer a chaperone.

Will I feel any pain?

You cannot feel ultrasound waves, however, it is important for the sonographer to examine you in the correct position and

to gently press down on the probe to get a good view. For some people this may be minimally uncomfortable. If you do

feel discomfort please inform the sonographer, so that suitable adjustments can be made or the examination can be

ceased.What happens after the scan?

You may eat, drink and resume normal activities (including sexual intercourse) as soon as you wish.

Receiving my results

Results are sent to you via an encrypted email &/or to your referring doctor if you have consented to the latter

communication.

Contact Us

Number: +442080581556 | +447745795699

Email: [email protected]

If you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming ultrasound scan, please contact We’re here to support you and

ensure your scan experience is smooth and reassuring.

Thank you for choosing Medlabs!