WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What do I need to know about a pelvic ultrasound? A pelvic ultrasound is a test that uses sound waves to look at your uterus, ovaries, or other pelvic organs. It can help your healthcare provider diagnose, monitor, or treat a medical condition. It may also be done during pregnancy to see your unborn baby. A pelvic ultrasound does not expose you or your baby to radiation. How do I prepare for a pelvic ultrasound? Your healthcare provider will talk to you about the test. You will need to drink 5 to 6 glasses of water 1 to 2 hours before your test. After you drink the water, do not urinate until you are told it is okay to do so. A full bladder will help your healthcare provider see your uterus and ovaries better. What will happen during a pelvic ultrasound? - You will lie on a table. Your healthcare provider will put gel on your lower abdomen. He will then move a device called a transducer over that area. The transducer uses sound waves to make images of your uterus, pelvic organs, or unborn baby. You may be asked to move into other positions so your healthcare provider can get better images. When he is done, you will be able to urinate.
- Your healthcare provider may also need to insert a transducer into your vagina. This is called a transvaginal ultrasound. It is done to help your healthcare provider see your uterus and ovaries better.
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