Private Gynaecology Ultrasound With Gynaecologist or Sonographer

How Do Our Ultrasounds Work?

The gynaecology ultrasound is performed using standard ultrasound equipment consisting of a small hand-held device called a transducer which carries the ultrasound through your skin, a computer that processes the information and a monitor where an image of the examined area appears in real time.

The transducer sends high-frequency sound waves (inaudible to the human ear) to the target area and registers the echo produced when they reach it. This gives the computer enough information to understand where the organ is based, as well as its shape and consistency. 

There are two types of pelvic scans:

• Transabdominal ultrasound where the transducer is run across the skin of your abdomen and slight pressure is applied to get the image
• Transvaginal ultrasound where a thin, long probe is inserted into the vagina to get a good image of the ovaries and the uterus

The Midland Health team will be here to explain the details to you and guide you through the entire process. If you don’t feel comfortable at any point, don’t hesitate to speak up and we’ll be there to help. 

What problems can be diagnosed with a gynaecology ultrasound?

At Midland Health, we work with leading consultant radiologists and sonographers who regularly use pelvic ultrasound scans to examine: 

• The cervix
• The uterus (womb)
• The womb lining (endometrium)
• The ovaries 
• Cysts 
• Pelvic abnormalities 

The pelvic ultrasound scan is a reliable diagnostic tool that can help identify a number of gynaecological problems. Some of the most common conditions it is used for include: 

• Pelvic Pain
• Abnormally heavy menstruation or irregular periods
• Amenorrhea (absence of periods)
• Fibroids and endometriosis (thickening of the lining of the womb)
• PCOS (Polycystic Ovaries Syndrome)
• Ovarian Cancer Screening
• Ovarian Cysts 

The gynaecological ultrasound technology can also be used as an imaging device to assist in the insertion, removal and assessment of the positioning of coils and other intrauterine devices (IUDs). 

Please note that we are currently not offering obstetric scans, fetal scans (other than early preganncy) or follicle tracking.

What happens at your ultrasound examination 

The pelvic ultrasound is a quick, painless and risk-free procedure, so you have nothing to worry about. You will not be required to do any preparation, but will needa full bladder on the day of your scan. You can read more on what to expect on the day of your scan below; our customer service team is also on hand to discuss any necessary preparations you need to make ahead of your scan and on the day of your scan.

Before the procedure

When you arrive for your gynaecology ultrasound appointment, you will be greeted by the friendly Midland Health team and led to one of the private, comfortable examination rooms in our Birmingham clinic. You will have received some instructions before your scan depending on the type of scan that you are having such as requirements for a full bladder or empty stomach. 

You may need to remove or loosen your clothing to allow access, so make sure you wear something comfortable and avoid tight-fitting clothing. Your dignity will always be maintained in drapes or covering. A chaperone will be available at the time of your scan. 

During the procedure

In the examination room, you will meet your sonographer who will ask you to lie down. The lights in the room will be dimmed to produce a better image on the screen. This also creates a more private atmosphere for you which some patients find relaxing. 

As part of the procedure, water-based gel will be placed on your skin to allow for the transducer to move smoothly and easily. This makes the scan more comfortable. Images of the scanned area appear on the screen immediately. 

If you are going to have a transvaginal scan, you may feel a little discomfort when the probe is inserted but the procedure is not painful. If you feel uncomfortable for any reason, let your examining specialist know and they will stop immediately. 

After the procedure

You will be given privacy to clean up any excess gel and get changed. Then you can discuss your scan with the radiographer and ask any questions you may have. You can leave immediately after the procedure. Your scan report will be shared with the requesting doctor who will interpret the scan and share the findings with you. 

Meet The Team

What Is The Difference Between A Consultant Radiologist And A Sonographer?

When it comes to gynaecology ultrasounds, both consultant radiologists and sonographers play essential roles in patient care. However, their expertise and responsibilities do differ.

Consultant Radiologist

A consultant radiologist is a medical doctor with specialised training in radiology. They play a critical role in:

• Interpreting ultrasound images and providing a formal diagnosis.
• Offering clinical guidance to sonographers and other healthcare professionals.
• Discussing results with referring doctors and recommending further tests if needed.

Radiologists ensure that any abnormalities detected during the scan are properly analysed and that the most appropriate next steps are taken for patient care.

Sonographer

A sonographer is a trained healthcare professional specialising in ultrasound imaging. They are responsible for:

• Performing the ultrasound scan and capturing high-quality images.
• Providing reports of findings (though they do not diagnose)

Sonographers ensure that the ultrasound procedure is performed safely and effectively, gathering the necessary images for the radiologist to interpret.

FAQ