What is a Transvaginal Ultrasound?
This Test Gives a High-Frequency View of the Pelvis
If you are having pelvic pain or other issues, your gynecologist might send you to have a transvaginal ultrasound. What exactly is this test and what does it reveal?
What is a Transvaginal Ultrasound?
At some point during womanhood, you might need to get a transvaginal ultrasound. When a gynecologist prescribes this, many women panic or at least wonder, "What sort of test is this?"
A transvaginal ultrasound is a diagnostic test which gives a magnified view of the cervix, uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes (if visible), the endometrial lining, and surrounding (adnexal) areas.
An ultrasound technologist will use a transducer, or camera, to take high-resolution pictures of the pelvis. The transducer looks much like a wand and is inserted into the vagina. Ultrasonic, or high- frequency, soundwaves are sent out and return to the transducer, much like sonar. Images are created from these "echoes."
There are various reasons for having a transvaginal ultrasound exam:
Pelvic Pain/ Irregular Bleeding
One of the most common reasons for a transvaginal ultrasound is pelvic pain. Many women experience pain from fibroid tumors, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, pelvic infections, and a myriad of other reasons.
The transducer can capture the image of fibroids, benign uterine tumors. These tumors cause pelvic muscular cramping, especially during menstruation. They can also cause excessive bleeding.
An ovarian cyst, usually uncomplicated (benign), is a result of an egg ripening and not releasing. It can grow to as large as 6 cm or more, causing pain and pelvic pressure. Transvaginal ultrasound gives a high-resolution image, determining whether it is truly a cyst or a solid mass.
Endometriosis, or the overgrowth of endometrial tissue, can be found in unusual pelvic places, including the regions beyond the ovaries (adnexal), adjacent to the uterus, and even outside of the pelvis. It is thought that the endometrial tissue somehow migrates outside of the uterus through the fallopian tubes instead of being expelled into the vagina during menstruation.
Follicle (Egg) Count
For women trying to get pregnant, there is a type of transvaginal ultrasound that can pinpoint a ripe follicle or egg that is ready for release (ovulation.) For women taking fertility drugs, oftentimes there are multiple ripe eggs seen on ultrasound. The test is utilized to measure egg size(s) and quality. Women using in vitro fertilization (IVF) as a method of conception will also have transvaginal ultrasounds to check for ripe eggs/ follicles.
Early Pregnancy
Probably the most exciting and gratifying transvaginal ultrasound test for both the technologist and the patient is the exam for early pregnancy. This checks for the presence of an embryo, which at this stage looks like a tiny shrimp. If it is a very early pregnancy (less than 5 weeks), only a yolk sac may be noted. At about 6 weeks, a heartbeat can usually be heard. This makes all the other routine transvaginal exams worthwhile for the technologist, and it fills the expectant parents with pure joy.
For further reference: Medline Plus
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