Transvaginal Ultrasound

For a transvaginal ultrasound, a woman needs to empty her bladder the same way she would for a gynecological exam. She also lies face up on her back with feet in stirrups. The transducer of the ultrasound needs to be inserted for this test. The transducer is smaller than the standard speculum used in Pap tests. A protective cover and gel for lubrication is placed on the transducer before it is inserted in the vagina.

Only the first two to three inches of the transducer is inserted in the vagina. The doctor may move it around to obtain images from different angles. The most common reason for transvaginal pelvic ultrasounds is to look for the cause of pelvic pain. Most patients report that this exam is more comfortable than a manual gynecologic examination.