Gynaecology Ultrasound

Gynaecology ultrasound, also known as pelvic ultrasound, is a reliable diagnostic imaging tool used to examine a number of different women’s health issues. From assessing the thickness of the lining of the womb to determining the size and shape of the uterus and the size and appearance of the ovaries, the ultrasound scan can help detect pelvic abnormalities and allow your doctor to identify the right treatment plan. 

We offer an excellent private gynaecology ultrasound service at Midland Health’s state-of-the-art medical facilities in Birmingham. You will be seen by one of our trained consultant radiologists and sonographers. Our team will welcome you to our relaxing and inviting private clinic where you will be examined using our advanced ultrasound machines. 

As the gynaecology ultrasound scan is a non-invasive procedure it’s painless and it carries no health risks. You can book a pelvic scan at Midland Health on short notice and you will receive your results on the day of your exam, so you will not have to wait to get a diagnosis. 

How does it 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 the leading consultant radiologists and sonographers in the Midlands 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 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 you can read more on what to expect on the day of your scan below. 

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. 

FAQ