Pelvic Ultrasound Near Lynchburg, VA

Get expert treatment and cutting-edge imaging for comprehensive pelvic health.

What is a Pelvic Ultrasound?

A pelvic ultrasound is a safe and painless diagnostic procedure that uses sound waves to produce detailed images of the pelvic organs, including the uterus, ovaries, and bladder. This test can be performed either externally or internally, depending on the specific needs of the exam. At the Center for Advanced Gynecology, we highly recommend the trans-vaginal pelvic ultrasound due to its ability to provide clearer, more accurate images by getting closer to the pelvic organs.

Why is a Pelvic Ultrasound Performed?

Pelvic ultrasounds are essential for diagnosing and tracking a variety of conditions. Some common reasons for this procedure include:

Assessing unexplained pelvic pain
Investigating irregular vaginal bleeding
Diagnosing ovarian cysts or fibroids
Identifying abnormalities in pelvic organs
Examining the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes
Determining causes of menstrual irregularities
Monitoring fetal development during pregnancy
Guiding the placement of an IUD
Evaluating the severity of endometriosis

Who Needs a Pelvic Ultrasound?

For individuals in Lynchburg, your healthcare provider may suggest a pelvic ultrasound if you are experiencing:

Pelvic discomfort or pain
Abnormal or heavy bleeding
Potential pelvic masses like cysts, tumors, polyps, or fibroids
Signs of possible endometriosis
Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy or other pregnancy-related concerns
Need for IUD placement or monitoring
Difficulty with fertility
A family history of ovarian cancer

Benefits of a Pelvic Ultrasound

For residents in Lynchburg, a pelvic ultrasound offers several advantages, such as:

No radiation exposure
More affordable than a CT scan or MRI
Delivers real-time images for precise diagnosis
Provides clear visuals for evaluating pelvic organs and structures
Assists in guiding procedures like biopsies or IUD placements
Safe with minimal discomfort during the procedure

What are the Risks?

Pelvic ultrasounds are generally safe with minimal risks. Some mild discomfort may occur when the transducer is placed or inserted, but the ultrasound waves themselves pose no harm. A sterile, unscented lubricating gel is applied to the probe along with a single-use cover, and while rare, it is possible to experience a reaction to the gel or the plastic cover.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

For residents in Lynchburg, during your pelvic ultrasound, your provider will ensure that you are comfortable and well-informed throughout the procedure. You will start by lying on an exam table. If you're having a transabdominal ultrasound, you may be asked to have a full bladder to improve the visibility of the pelvic organs. You will likely be instructed to drink water and hold your urine beforehand. If you're having a transvaginal ultrasound, you will need to empty your bladder and lie back with your feet in stirrups, similar to a pelvic exam.

The ultrasound procedure will involve either moving the transducer over your lower abdomen, applying a water-based gel to your skin, or gently inserting a probe into your vagina, known as a transvaginal ultrasound wand. The transvaginal ultrasound is often preferred because it provides clearer images of the uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic structures.

Throughout the procedure, your provider may ask you to change positions or hold your breath briefly to capture clearer images. The procedure usually lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, and while it is typically painless, you might experience some mild discomfort during the insertion of the transvaginal probe.

Once the exam is complete, the gel will be wiped off, and you can dress and resume your regular activities. At the Center for Advanced Gynecology, your provider performs the ultrasound, which means you will receive the results and answers about your pelvic health during your visit.

Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology

Founded in 2018, The Center for Advanced Gynecology is dedicated to improving your health with specialized expertise in gynecological care and advanced surgical solutions when needed. Our team offers non-surgical treatments for chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and discomfort in the vagina, vulva, and bladder. Recognizing the need for more comprehensive care in the Lynchburg community, we have expanded our practice to include routine gynecological services, cancer screenings, Pap smears, menopausal management, hormonal treatments, breast care, contraceptive services, urinary incontinence treatment, and pelvic organ prolapse management. We are committed to providing personalized, compassionate care to address all aspects of your health.

Frequently Asked Questions

A transvaginal ultrasound involves placing a probe inside the vagina to get a closer look at the female pelvic organs. A transabdominal ultrasound is performed by scanning through the abdominal wall to visualize the pelvic organs, while a transrectal ultrasound uses a probe inserted into the rectum, usually to examine the rectum and lower colon. Transrectal ultrasounds are not commonly performed in our gynecology practice.

Preparing for a pelvic ultrasound is generally simple. For a transabdominal scan, you may need to have a full bladder. For a transvaginal ultrasound, you will likely be instructed to empty your bladder. If you are menstruating, you will need to remove your tampon. Your provider will give you any additional instructions prior to your appointment.

Most individuals do not experience significant discomfort during a pelvic ultrasound. For a transabdominal ultrasound, you might feel mild pressure as the transducer moves across your abdomen. During a transvaginal exam, there may be slight discomfort upon insertion of the probe, but it is generally minimal and less uncomfortable than a Pap smear.

A typical pelvic ultrasound usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes. You will be asked to lie on your back while the provider captures the necessary images. One of the advantages of having your ultrasound done at the Center for Advanced Gynecology is that your provider performs the ultrasound and provides you with the results right away, eliminating the need for a follow-up appointment.

If the ultrasound identifies any abnormalities in your reproductive organs, the next steps may involve additional diagnostic tests such as an MRI, repeat imaging to check for changes, a biopsy, or potentially surgery.

Yes, while healthy fallopian tubes are typically not visible on a pelvic ultrasound, they can be seen when they are thickened or filled with fluid. This can occur if the tubes are blocked, infected, or if an ectopic pregnancy is present.

Yes, pelvic ultrasounds are a standard method for monitoring pregnancy progress, assessing fetal development, and screening for any potential complications. Transvaginal ultrasounds are generally used in the first 12-14 weeks, and after that, a transabdominal ultrasound is typically used.

Once the ultrasound is completed, you can usually return to your normal activities right away. Your provider will discuss the ultrasound images with you and recommend further steps if any abnormalities are found.