Gynaecological ultrasound at Wessex Hospital

Ultrasound scanning is often used to examine conditions affecting the organs in a woman's pelvis - the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

Preparing for gynaecological ultrasound

You will be asked to remove some of your clothing and position yourself on the scanning table. For particular scans you may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking prior to the procedure. If you are having your uterus scanned you may be asked to attend the appointment with a full bladder. This acts as an ultrasound window, and allows for better visualisation of the pelvic organs. But don’t worry there is a toilet nearby so you can empty your bladder immediately following the scan.

To check for abnormalities such as polyps, cysts and fibroids and assess your ovaries or uterus we may perform a transvaginal scan.  The procedure is painless and involves insertion of a small probe (similar in size and shape to a tampon) into your vagina. 

How long does gynaecological ultrasound take?

A typical scan takes from 5 to 10 minutes. Depending on what we are assessing your scan could take longer.

Are ultrasound scans dangerous?

Ultrasound scanning is not dangerous and has no known side effects, it is used during pregnancy.

When will I find out the results?

For some types of scans our staff will be able to explain the images and results to you during or just after the scan. In other cases a detailed analysis may be needed. The Reporting Clinician will review the images and send a report on the findings to your doctor or health professional. Be sure and ask how long you should expect to wait for the results before you leave.

Note: This does not qualify for the Price Promise below.

Click here for other types of ultrasound scanning.