Female Pelvic Ultrasound Scan
What Is a Female Pelvic Ultrasound Scan?
A female pelvic ultrasound is a detailed examination of your reproductive organs and the surrounding pelvic area using sound waves. This scan provides essential information about the uterus, ovaries, endometrium (lining of the womb), and the adnexa (the area around the pelvic organs).
Most pelvic ultrasounds combine two approaches for the most accurate assessment: transabdominal (probe moved across your lower abdomen with a full bladder) and transvaginal (a thin probe gently inserted for more detailed views). This combination provides the most comprehensive assessment.
What We Assess With This Scan
- Uterus (size, shape, and position)
- Endometrium (lining of the womb — thickness and texture)
- Ovaries (size, appearance, and any cysts or masses)
- Cervix
- Adnexa (area surrounding the uterus and ovaries)
- Bladder
This scan cannot assess:
- Detailed assessment of fallopian tubes (unless dilated)
- Definitive cancer diagnosis (biopsy may be needed)
When Is the Best Time to Have This Scan?
For ongoing or chronic symptoms:
We recommend having your pelvic ultrasound early in your menstrual cycle, ideally between day 3 and day 5 (day 1 is the first day of heavy bleeding). Having your period does not affect the scan.
Why timing matters:
- Early in the cycle, the ovaries should not show large cystic structures on healthy ovaries
- Mid-cycle scans may show a dominant follicle (normal) which can be difficult to distinguish from an abnormal cyst
- Scanning early avoids the need for repeat scans and speeds up diagnosis
For urgent symptoms: If you have acute symptoms, the scan can be performed at any time in your cycle.
Why You Might Need This Scan
Common symptoms:
- •Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- •Heavy periods
- •Painful periods
- •Irregular menstrual bleeding
- •Bleeding between periods
- •Bleeding after menopause
- •Difficulty conceiving
- •Bloating or feeling of fullness
Conditions we assess:
- •Ovarian cysts
- •Fibroids (uterine growths)
- •Endometrial polyps
- •Endometrial thickening
- •PCOS (polycystic ovary appearance)
- •Position of an intrauterine device (IUD/coil)
- •Adenomyosis
- •Pelvic masses
What to Expect
Before Your Scan
Full bladder required: Drink 500ml-1 litre of water starting about 1 hour before your appointment. Finish drinking at least 20 minutes before your scan time to allow your bladder to fill. For ongoing symptoms, we recommend having your pelvic ultrasound early in your menstrual cycle, ideally between day 3 and day 5.
Preparation checklist:
- Drink 500ml-1 litre of water 1 hour before appointment
- Wear comfortable, easily removable clothing
- Arrive 10 minutes before your appointment time
During the Scan
The scan begins with a transabdominal ultrasound (probe on your lower abdomen) with a full bladder. For more detailed images, a transvaginal scan is usually recommended. You'll be asked to empty your bladder, then a thin probe covered with a sterile sheath is gently inserted. You'll remain comfortably covered with a sheet throughout. The scan typically takes 20-30 minutes in total.
After Your Scan
You can return to normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions or downtime.
Results & Next Steps
Your scan is reviewed by a consultant radiologist, who prepares a formal report. This report is sent to your referring doctor within 2-3 working days. Please note: our sonographers cannot provide verbal results on the day.
Pricing
Price: €170 (Medical Card: €150)
Cancellation: We require 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Available 7 days a week across our three Dublin locations.
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Our experienced team is available 7 days a week across our three Dublin locations.