Pelvic ultrasound scan
A quick, safe way to look at the womb, ovaries and surrounding structures, carried out by a consultant with care for your privacy and comfort.
- Price
- From £300Abdomen, pelvis and transvaginal £450 · £50 deposit
- Appointment
- 20 to 30 minutesIncluding consultation · scan about 15 minutes
- Preparation
- Arrive with a full bladder
- Report
- Most results the same or next day
Who it's for
When a scan can help
This scan is for people with symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy or irregular periods, bleeding after menopause or bloating, and for those who want reassurance or a follow-up of a known condition.
What it shows
The scan can check for
- Fibroids
- Ovarian size, cysts and masses
- Polycystic ovaries
- Changes in the size of the uterus
- Endometrial (womb lining) thickness and abnormalities
- Causes of irregular or heavy bleeding
- Causes of pelvic pain
- Signs of infection or inflammation
- Fluid in the pelvis
- Bladder assessment, including emptying
What to expect
Your appointment
Transabdominal scan
You are asked to arrive with a full bladder: drink about 1 litre of water an hour before and avoid using the toilet. You lie down, gel is placed on your lower abdomen and a small probe is moved over the skin.
Transvaginal scan
If a closer view is needed, your consultant may offer an internal scan. It is always your choice, and you can decline or stop at any time. You are asked to empty your bladder first and undress from the waist down in private. The probe is slim, about the size of a tampon, and is covered with a sterile cover and gel.
Comfort
The scan is usually painless. You may feel brief discomfort with the internal probe. If a position is difficult, tell us and we will adjust.
Who reads your scan
Consultant radiologists, specialists in this area
Your report
Your consultant talks you through what the scan shows while you are still in the room.
A written report follows, usually within 24 hours. If anything needs a closer look, we can arrange MRI, CT, blood tests or a specialist referral.
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need a pelvic ultrasound?
To find the cause of symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy periods or bloating, to check for fibroids or cysts, or to follow up a known condition.
What symptoms are linked to pelvic problems?
Pelvic pain; bloating; heavy or irregular periods; bleeding between periods or after menopause; pain during sex; difficulty getting pregnant; frequent or painful urination.
When should I see a doctor?
If you notice ongoing pelvic pain, changes in your period or other unusual symptoms.
Do I need to prepare?
Yes. Come with a full bladder for the transabdominal scan. If a transvaginal scan follows, you will be asked to empty your bladder first.
Do I have to have the internal scan?
No. It is offered only when it would give a clearer view, and you can say no at any time.
Is it safe?
Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and has no known side effects. A small amount of gel is applied to the skin and a handheld probe is moved gently over the area. You can return to your day straight afterwards.
Enquire or book
Tell us what you would like looked at and we will come back to you with times. You do not need a referral.