OMT survey. On what day should I do a pelvic ultrasound? What does a pelvic ultrasound show in women? What can a pelvic ultrasound reveal?
Content
The transvaginal research method is one of the most reliable methods for diagnosing the female pelvic organs. Diagnosis is carried out through the vagina, into which a special sensor is inserted. Ultrasound is performed as a separate ultrasound examination, and in combination with palpation and the transabdominal method.
What is transvaginal ultrasound
An informative method for examining a woman’s pelvic organs using ultrasound is called transvaginal ultrasound. This type of research is effective for studying bladder, ovaries, fallopian tubes, pathology of the uterus and cervix. The sensor is very close to the organs that need to be examined, so the diagnostic accuracy is superior to any other type of ultrasound.
Indications for ultrasound with a vaginal probe
The use of the intravaginal method has expanded the boundaries of the diagnostic capabilities of urologists, obstetricians and gynecologists. For patients, vaginal ultrasound helps detect diseases that are just emerging in the body and are at early stage. Other diagnostics are less informative when we're talking about about minimal changes in pelvic organs. The procedure can be done as an annual checkup or if you have symptoms:
- during sexual intercourse there is pain in the lower abdomen;
- absence of menstruation;
- if infertility is suspected;
- delay of menstruation for more than 3 weeks;
- menstruation lasts less than 3 or more than 7 days;
- pain in the lower abdomen not associated with menstruation.
How to prepare for a transvaginal ultrasound
Careful preparation for a transvaginal ultrasound is not required. Before the abdominal examination, the bladder must be full; in the case of the intravaginal method, it must be empty. If you urinated more than 2 hours ago, the ultrasound specialist may ask you to go to the toilet before the procedure.
Performing a transvaginal ultrasound
The procedure does not cause painful sensations, only slight discomfort. How is a transvaginal ultrasound performed? The patient needs to lie on a gynecological chair or couch, bend her knees and spread her legs apart. The instrument is a transducer (transvaginal sensor), which looks like a 3x12 cm rod with a beveled handle and a channel with a biopsy needle.
- A disposable condom is put on the transducer, and a gel lubricant is applied on top, which helps during ultrasound.
- The doctor inserts the sensor into the vagina to the required depth.
- Sonologist examines internal organs through the monitor, moving the sensor to the sides, down, up.
On what day of the cycle is a transvaginal ultrasound done?
There is a connection between the time of the study and menstrual cycle. On what day of menstruation is a transvaginal ultrasound performed? All female organs undergo changes after ovulation, 12-14 days after the first day of the last menstruation. This is necessary to be ready for conception and implantation of a fertilized egg. A planned ultrasound is performed at the beginning of the cycle, if necessary - the next day after the end of menstruation (5-7 days of the cycle), or on days 8-12.
If the patient suspects endometriosis, the procedure is performed in the second half of the cycle. To assess how follicles mature, the study is carried out several times over time (on days 8-10, then 15-16, then 22-24 days of the cycle). If a woman experiences bleeding or spotting that is in no way related to menstruation, then the study is carried out on any day of the cycle, immediately after symptoms are detected.
What does a transvaginal ultrasound show?
If your indicators do not correspond to generally accepted standards (see the table in the section “Normal ultrasound of the internal organs of the pelvis”), then you can try to find out what pathologies we are talking about. Unlike an abdominal examination, the information content of a vaginal ultrasound is an order of magnitude higher, which makes it possible to see the following conditions and serious diseases:
- ovarian cancer;
- the occurrence of ovarian cysts;
- there is fluid in the pelvis and lower parts of the abdominal cavity;
- endometriosis;
- chorionepithelioma;
- uterine and ectopic pregnancy;
- education malignant tumors uterus;
- blood, pus, inflammatory fluid in the fallopian tubes;
- partial or complete hydatidiform mole;
- uterine fibroids;
- developmental anomalies of the internal genital organs;
- endometrial polyposis.
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs transvaginally
The main method for diagnosing pathologies and inflammatory processes Consider transvaginal pelvic ultrasound. The examination includes organs: uterus, appendages and ovaries. For therapeutic purposes, pregnant women are examined to assess the condition of the fetus. To detect diseases genitourinary system The transvaginal method is also suitable. The examination is painless and there are no complications after it. Women under the age of 40 should undergo it once every 2 years for preventive purposes.
Ultrasound of the uterus and appendages transvaginally
Modern transvaginal ultrasound examination of the uterus and appendages will help a woman find out about the presence the following pathologies and diseases: uterine fibroids, endometriosis, polyps, uterine and ovarian cancer, endometritis, cervical tumor, ovarian cyst, inflammation of the uterine appendages (adnexitis). A vaginal examination will help doctors verify a preliminary diagnosis and prescribe treatment, and women will help determine the presence of cancer or inflammatory diseases, install early pregnancy or identify its pathology.
Transvaginal ultrasound of the bladder
Transvaginal ultrasound of the bladder is considered a safe diagnostic test. This method allows you to find out the structure, shape and volume of the required organ and is an alternative to catheterization and palpation. Indications for the intravaginal method include: delayed or frequent urination, pain in the lower abdomen and lower back, red blood cells or blood in the urine, cystitis, bladder injuries, suspected neoplasms.
Transvaginal ultrasound during pregnancy
The scanning procedure reveals signs of ectopic pregnancy: ovarian, cervical, tubal. In a normal pregnancy, the transvaginal technique is used in the first trimester and displays an image of the uterus with the developing fetus on the monitor. Vaginal ultrasound during pregnancy early stages allows you to identify problems and their causes in the development of the embryo. General indications for this method for pregnant women in the early stages:
- establishing the fact of pregnancy;
- monitoring the development of the unborn baby;
- detection of gestation threats;
- diagnostics of the periuterine space;
- diagnosis of uterine fibroids.
Transvaginal ultrasound - transcript
A doctor must provide reliable results of a transvaginal ultrasound. Transvaginal examination helps evaluate parameters such as the size of the uterus and its cervix, the location and structure of the uterus; location, size and structure of the ovaries; the number of mature and emerging follicles, their sizes; free liquid in abdominal cavity; the exit site of the fallopian tubes. If you want to completely inspect the pipes, you need to fill them with a special liquid that will serve as a contrast.
Normal ultrasound of internal organs normal
The examination procedure is carried out by an ophthalmologist or sonologist, who upon completion will not only hand over the results, but will also tell you what they mean or report the presence of the disease. For more accurate diagnosis You need to tell your doctor the date of the last menstruation and how long the cycle lasts. Normal indicators It will be more convenient to view the echo images of transvaginal pelvic ultrasound in the form of a table.
| Internal organs | Normal indicators |
|---|---|
| Uterus |
|
| Cervix |
|
| Free liquid | There should be several mm in the space behind the uterus within 2-3 days after ovulation (days 13-15 of the cycle) |
| Ovaries |
|
| Fallopian tubes | Without contrast, they should be barely noticeable or not visible at all. |
Is transvaginal ultrasound harmful?
This research method does not harm non-pregnant girls, but serves as a source of information about the health or pathologies of the internal organs of the small pelvis. More reliably than any other means, it will report pregnancy and help identify an ectopic one. If we are talking about establishing pregnancy, the doctor prescribes planned implementation Ultrasound in the first trimester. On later transvaginal ultrasound is harmful, because it can lead to miscarriage. If diagnostics are necessary, it is better to use the abdominal method through the abdominal walls.
Transvaginal ultrasound for virgins
Only women who are sexually active can undergo a vaginal examination. Is it possible to perform a transvaginal ultrasound on a virgin? This research method is not performed on virgins. Instead, another safe and painless procedure will help examine the female pelvic organs - a transabdominal examination, in which a special sensor is moved from the outside along the abdominal wall. If a virgin has a pronounced degree of obesity or flatulence, then the doctor may suggest transrectal ultrasound - a research method through the rectum.
Transvaginal ultrasound price
Professionalism and reviews of doctors, service and prestige of the clinic - all these are factors in determining the price. Medical clinics Moscow offer a number of procedures to their patients: you can choose diagnostic ultrasound pelvic organs or focus on the indicator of interest, for example, on the study of the follicle. The minimum price for transvaginal diagnostics is 500 rubles, the maximum upper limit is 14 thousand rubles.
Video: transvaginal examination
Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and make treatment recommendations based on individual characteristics specific patient.
Found an error in the text? Select it, press Ctrl + Enter and we will fix everything!A woman’s body is a fragile and delicately constructed mechanism that requires constant care and attention. Many people have a question about how to check the changes occurring in the body, as well as the condition of certain organs. IN this issue A diagnostic specialist using ultrasound can come to the woman’s aid.
Ultrasound
The most common examination in this area is an ultrasound of the lower pelvic organs. This is logical, because it is this group of organs in a woman that is most susceptible to various changes. However, many women are afraid this procedure due to their ignorance of the peculiarities of its implementation. Below we will consider all the main points of conducting a study using ultrasound of the organs of the lower pelvis, as well as a transcript of the results. Detailed information information about the procedure often helps a woman get rid of her fear of it. Not everyone knows what day to do a pelvic ultrasound.
Research using ultrasonic waves is considered the safest for the human body, including pregnant women and infants. In addition, it is one of the most highly accurate. Unlike x-ray, which can give false information if the patient moved during the procedure, research using ultrasound waves can assess the condition of the organs over time. This makes it possible to detect any abnormal indicators, which are almost impossible to miss during an ultrasound of the pelvic organs in women.
Operating principles
How is a pelvic ultrasound done in women? Let's understand the principles of operation ultrasound machine. This research method has a large number of common features with echolocation. The sound wave sent by the transducer of the ultrasound machine through the tip is reflected from the organs being tested and returned back. Such data exchange allows you to create an image on the screen, with the help of which a specialist evaluates the processes occurring inside the body.
Your doctor will tell you what day to do a pelvic ultrasound.
Indications for use
Most often, in order to examine the organs of the lower pelvis, a woman is sent for an ultrasound. Such a study allows you to assess the condition of the fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, bladder, rectum, and also detect pregnancy even at the earliest stage. A referral for examination is issued by a therapist or gynecologist. The reason for such an appointment may be:
Disruption in the menstrual cycle.
Pain in the lower abdomen.
Bleeding and abnormal discharge.
Suspicion of the presence of formations such as endometritis, tumors in the ovaries, cysts in the fallopian tubes and on the cervix.
Ultrasound also helps diagnose the presence kidney stones and other diseases of the urinary and biliary tract.
Preparing for an ultrasound
There are several types of pelvic ultrasound:
Transabdominal, that is, the anterior wall of the peritoneum.
Transvaginal.
Transrectal.
Obstetric, for pregnant women.
Each method provides its own preparatory measures, but there are also general nuances:
For several days before the procedure, you should avoid foods that can cause increased gas formation. These can be legumes, yeast bread, alcohol and fermented milk products.
If a few days before the pelvic ultrasound the patient had X-ray examination With a contrast agent such as barium, ultrasound should be postponed. This is because barium can distort the results.
On the day of the study, you should cleanse your intestines. On what day to do a pelvic ultrasound, we will consider below.
Research options
It is better to find out in advance how to prepare for a pelvic ultrasound. Modern diagnostics offers several options for conducting ultrasound research:
Before transabdominal, the bladder should be filled. This is done by drinking several glasses of water. In case of emergency, fluid is administered using a catheter.
A transvaginal ultrasound, on the other hand, requires an empty bladder, so you need to go to the toilet before it.
Obstetric ultrasound, or so-called screening, does not require special preparation, but it is optimal to drink a glass of water a few hours before it is performed. Every woman should know how to prepare for a pelvic ultrasound.
If you have problems with flatulence or constipation, you should take enzyme-containing drugs, for example, Espumisan or Mezim, for several days before the study. However, on the day of the procedure it is better to avoid taking any medicines, and 10 hours before it is necessary to exclude food intake.
It is considered most effective to carry it out during the first week after the end of menstruation. There are no strict contraindications to the procedure, but you should tell the specialist about an allergy to latex or about ongoing menstruation.
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs in women
It was mentioned above that it is most optimal to conduct an ultrasound examination of the organs of the lower pelvis in the first week after the end of menstruation. This rule is relevant both for checking for erosion and polycystic disease, as well as the condition of the appendages and uterus. If the presence of uterine fibroids is suspected, the examination should be carried out immediately after the end of menstrual bleeding.
What else is included in a pelvic ultrasound?
Endometriosis is diagnosed before the onset of menstruation. To diagnose folliculogenesis, transvaginal ultrasound should be performed on days 5, 9, 14-17 of the cycle. Depending on the length of the menstrual cycle, these dates may vary. For prevention, you should undergo an ultrasound examination at least once a year. If you have any complaints of pain in the lower pelvic area, you should consult a doctor immediately.
Pregnant women
How is a pelvic ultrasound performed in women during pregnancy?
During the period of bearing a child, it is also important to visit the ultrasound room. In addition to the study during which pregnancy was detected, it is necessary to conduct an ultrasound scan in each trimester:
- Week 9-10 involves a so-called genetic ultrasound. Determines whether the embryo has abnormalities of genetic origin.
- 16-20 weeks, scheduled ultrasound. Can be determined gender child.
- 32-34 weeks, screening. Weight, height, facial features of the child.
Who carries out the diagnosis?
The procedure should be performed by an ultrasound diagnostic specialist or a gynecologist with the appropriate skills. The research is carried out according to a certain scheme. First, the patient is positioned on the couch, opening the lower abdomen for specialist access. Most clinics provide disposable sheets, but it’s a good idea to play it safe and bring your own. If the procedure is performed transvaginally, you will have to completely undress from the waist down. After this, the doctor lubricates the sensor and the patient’s skin with a special gel and begins the examination procedure itself. The duration of an ultrasound is from 5 to 20 minutes. In fact, this procedure is painless, but in case of severe inflammation, slight sensitivity may occur.
The transvaginal method uses a special oblong sensor called a transducer. Its diameter is approximately three centimeters. The sensor is inserted into the vagina. For hygienic purposes, a condom is put on it, on which the gel is also applied. This substance helps improve the conductivity of sound waves. The specialist observes the data on the screen and analyzes the results.
Below we will consider what a pelvic ultrasound shows in women.
Decoding
The specialist makes a conclusion and makes a diagnosis based on the data displayed on the screen. An assessment is made of indicators such as the size and echogenicity of internal organs. It would be optimal if the conclusion on the study was made not by a sonologist, but by a urologist or gynecologist. It is the doctor who can assess the structure, position and size of the uterus and its cervix, as well as the ovaries, and identify the presence of follicles and uterine tumors. The specialist is also able to detect the presence of stones in the kidneys or bladder, neoplasms in the large intestine, etc.
At the end of the examination, the specialist draws up a written conclusion containing all the data obtained, indicating normal values. In addition, the doctor draws conclusions about the health status of the patient’s pelvic organs and prescribes additional examination or prescribes necessary treatment. What else does a pelvic ultrasound show in women?
Deviations
Deviations from the norm indicate the presence of certain diseases. For example, thickening of the walls of the fallopian tubes or cervix indicates an increased risk of developing cancer. Round or oval formations visible on scanograms indicate the possibility of the formation of fibroids and cysts. Polycystic disease will be indicated by a shrinkage of the uterus and an increase in the size of the ovaries. Fibroids and endometriosis are diagnosed based on changes in echogenicity.
The diagnosis of the disease should be carried out by the attending physician, that is, a gynecologist. The specialist issues test results in the form of a written report with an attached image. The conclusion is issued within an hour after the procedure, but some clinics issue all documents immediately after the ultrasound.
Medical experts rightfully consider ultrasound not only the safest, but also the most reliable. The accuracy of the results obtained is close to 100 percent. When detecting cysts, this value is 98%, and when fibroids are close to 90%. However, factors that may distort diagnostic results should be taken into account. As stated above, this may be overweight, X-ray with contrast, etc. The quality of the equipment used in the study is also of great importance.
Conclusion
Thus, ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs is an integral part of diagnosing pathologies of the reproductive system in women. The procedure is painless and does not require special conditions preparation, which makes it accessible to every woman.
We looked at what day to do a pelvic ultrasound.
Usually on ultrasound diagnostics The pelvic floor is referred by a gynecologist. Examinations by a doctor of this specialty should be included in the system for women. It is recommended to undergo gynecological examinations annually, even in the absence of painful symptoms in the genitourinary area and menstrual disorders. It must be taken into account that a large number of organ diseases in initial stage may not show themselves at all. It’s better to detect them and treat them in time before they start serious problems.
A woman needs to be examined by a gynecologist annually, even if there are no problems with her work. reproductive systemAn examination of the internal organs of the pelvis using ultrasound is done to find out whether there are any health abnormalities in the woman or fetus (it is studied when an obstetric ultrasound is performed during pregnancy).
Which organs are being examined?
Let's figure out what is examined during a pelvic ultrasound:
- The first thing that is studied is the uterus and cervix. The examination helps determine its location, size, outline, and texture of the walls. They look separately internal structure- the uterine cavity (if the woman is not pregnant, then the cavity is a gap) and the endometrium (this is the mucous membrane that lines the uterus from the inside).
- The next organ is the ovaries. Their boundaries are visible on the device’s monitor, as they are located in relation to the uterus. The doctor also notes the size of the follicles and the corpus luteum; it is formed after ovulation at the site of the dominant follicle. The data obtained are correlated with the period of the menstrual cycle. Formations in the ovaries: if they are present, their structure, shape and size are described.
- Bladder: To be seen better on an ultrasound, it must be full; examination may reveal infections of the genitourinary system.
- In addition, the presence of tumors and the presence of free fluid in the internal space are detected: the norm is when there is little of it, and it appears after ovulation.
During an ultrasound of the pelvic organs, the doctor checks the condition of the uterus and its size, and also diagnoses indicators of the functioning of the ovaries and bladder Types of pelvic examinations
When examining the pelvic organs, various techniques are used that complement each other:
- transvaginal method: the sensor is placed in the vagina, and a condom is put on it to comply with hygiene standards;
- transrectal examination is rarely done in women; as a rule, it is used for girls who have not yet had sexual intercourse; the sensor is inserted through the anus;
- transabdominal method: the sensor is moved along the lower abdomen.
Each of these methods has its own characteristics, which determine how you need to prepare for an ultrasound. Proper preparation will help you get reliable results.
Preparation for ultrasound diagnostics
Transvaginal method
Usually diagnostics are prescribed on days 5 - 7 female cycle, that is, when your period ends.
You need to start preparing for this type of study 2 days in advance. Preparation consists of observing special nutritional standards. It is better not to eat vegetables and fruits that have not undergone heat treatment. It is necessary to limit the consumption of milk and products made from it, as well as meat, and do not drink soda.
All this is done to reduce the formation of gases in the gastrointestinal tract, since gases can reduce the accuracy of the data obtained. In the evening, the day before the examination, you should give an enema.
Transrectal method
You should also prepare for this type of examination: a diet that excludes foods that can cause increased gas formation. In the evening before the day of the examination, you need to do a cleansing enema. Before the examination, be sure to go to the toilet and empty your bowels.
Transabdominal method
If you choose this method, you need to prepare for 3-4 days. This is how long you need to follow a special diet of foods that will not cause increased gas formation. Let us remind you that the gases accumulated inside will prevent the doctor from seeing the exact picture and drawing the right conclusions. When preparing for the examination, you should avoid:
- sweets, buns;
- alcoholic drinks;
- fatty foods;
- beans, peas, legumes;
- spicy dishes;
- carbonated drinks.
It is important to come to the examination with complete bladder. An hour and a half before the appointed time, you need to drink at least a liter of water.
A moderate desire to visit the toilet should indicate that the organ is filled to the required level. This condition of the bladder will facilitate diagnosis - it will help the uterus take a place convenient for examination, and will displace it from the field of view. bottom part Gastrointestinal tract.
When should women undergo ultrasound examination pelvis using this method? It is advisable to be examined on days 5-7 of the menstrual cycle.
What information can be obtained from an ultrasound?
Decoding the results of the study will help confirm or refute suspicions of pregnancy. An ultrasound examination of the uterus shows pregnancy at the earliest stage and helps to find out whether the fetal parameters are normal. In pregnant women, ultrasound can safely monitor the development of the fetus in order to notice in time possible deviations- a system of examinations is needed here.
Ultrasound examination makes it possible to diagnose pregnancy in the early stages, and also allows you to monitor the development of the fetus In addition, a gynecological ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs is carried out in preparation for pregnancy or if a woman is going to be treated for infertility. In this case, monitoring of the functionality of the ovaries and follicles is required: here you can determine whether the phases of the menstrual cycle correspond to the norms. When using an intrauterine device, an ultrasound examination is done to control possible complications. Also, deciphering the data obtained during diagnosis will reveal diseases. gynecological sphere: internal inflammatory processes, various neoplasms in the uterus and ovaries, including malignant ones, infections of the genitourinary system.
Ultrasound will also help identify the causes of various health problems:
- Irregularity of the menstrual cycle or absence of menstruation;
- problems of the genitourinary system, urinary incontinence;
- various vaginal discharges;
- painful sensations in the lower abdomen that have entered the system;
- the appearance of uncharacteristic discharge after menopause.
Interpretation of the results of ultrasound of the pelvic organs
Uterus and cervix
Examination of the uterus makes it possible to assess the shape, size and position of the uterus, and visualize possible structural changes. The average parameters are as follows:
- 7 cm in length;
- 6 cm wide;
- 4 cm - anterior-posterior indicator.
The thickness of the endometrium (mucous membrane) should correspond to the day of the menstrual cycle. The examination reveals diseases such as endometriosis, fibroids, malignant neoplasms cervix and uterine body, developmental anomalies.
Ovaries
An ultrasound examination evaluates the size, position and structure of the ovaries, as well as the presence of follicles in them (according to the phase of the menstrual cycle). Average parameters of healthy ovaries:
- 3 cm in length;
- 2.5 cm wide;
- 1.5 cm thick.
The examination reveals diseases such as cysts, polycystic diseases, salpingitis, and malignant tumors.
Fallopian tubes
IN healthy condition The fallopian tubes are not visualized during the study, since they are hollow in structure. Most often, the study is carried out to check their patency, using injection contrast agent into the uterine cavity. This procedure is called echohysterosalpingoscopy, and is prescribed on days 7-12 of the menstrual cycle for infertility.
One of the most high-precision and safe methods diagnostics used in gynecological practice is ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs (ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs).
The essence of this method is to reflect the internal organs sent by sensors sound wave. The reflected radiation is converted using technical instruments into a graphic image, which is interpreted by a diagnostician.
Using ultrasound, you can track the pelvic organs over time, which allows you to make accurate conclusions.
Ultrasound method examination of female organs is completely safe, as it does not involve invasive intervention in the body.
The result of the condition of tissues and organs is obtained due to the influence of ultrasound waves. Using a sensor and an acoustic transducer, the health status of the pelvic organs and other organs and systems is diagnosed. This device is very often used in gynecology.
Ultrasound signals pass through tissue and undergo different periods vibrations, they are also characterized by different lengths and frequencies. These parameters are directly dependent on the density and elasticity of the tissues through which they pass.
Therefore, when passing through certain organs, the parametric value of the waves changes. The reflected echo signals are received using the sensor.
In order to create best conditions for complete contact of the body with the ultrasound machine and guarantee accuracy, it is necessary to use a gel that is intended for this study.
First, part of the body is exposed to access the organs located in the pelvis. Then it is lubricated with gel and a sensor is applied.
An image appears on the screen, and the specialist assesses the condition of the organs. When using a vaginal probe, it is inserted directly into the vagina.
In some cases, this method is more informative.
This examination method is absolutely painless and does not cause discomfort or discomfort. It does not carry radiation exposure, unlike X-rays and computed tomography, in which the radiation is especially powerful.
And at the same time, it is ultrasound that allows us to give a correct assessment of the condition of the organs. Therefore, this method of examination is given preference in the first place.
The principle of ultrasound research is echolocation. Body tissues have different acoustic properties.
The ultrasound sensor first sends and then receives signals reflected from various tissues of the body. Based on these data, a visual series is built on the monitor, from which a specialist can thoroughly examine the internal organs and draw appropriate conclusions.
1 Types of ultrasound of pelvic organs
There are three main classifications of ultrasound of the female genital organs.
The first is based on the specifics of the conduct. From this point of view, ultrasound is divided into:
- Transabdominal is most often practiced. Provides for the passage of waves through the peritoneal wall. The sensor is located according to lower area belly. It does not apply if there is damage to this area of the skin (abrasions, scratches, purulent lesions, burns), as well as obesity, which is an obstacle to the passage of waves and can significantly distort the picture.
- Transvaginal involves inserting a sensor with a condom on it into the woman’s vagina. It is considered more informative than transabdominal. It is not carried out for girls who have not yet had sexual experience. It is often used in obstetrics in the early stages of pregnancy, when it is impossible to see the fetus through the abdominal wall. The method requires maximum caution, as it can provoke a miscarriage.
- Transrectal involves inserting a thin sensor into the anus. It is not performed on women who do not have a rectum, or in the presence of inflammatory processes in this area. This type is indicated for virgins when transabdominal ultrasound is for some reason impossible or impractical.
Ultrasound in gynecology can be performed in three ways. Distinguish the following types gynecological ultrasound:
- transrectal ultrasound (performed through the rectum in girls who are not sexually active);
- transvaginal ultrasound (carried out by inserting a sensor into the vagina for an accurate examination of diseases of the pelvic organs);
- transabdominal (or simply abdominal) ultrasound, or simply abdominal ultrasound (performed through the abdominal wall when signs are detected pelvic inflammation or girls who are not sexually active).
For what indications is an ultrasound of the pelvic organs performed in women?
Regardless of the purpose of a gynecological ultrasound (routine examination or pregnancy management), diagnosis is made using 3 methods. These are transabdominal, transvaginal and transrectal examinations.
During pregnancy, only the first two methods are used. At medical examination All types of ultrasound are used, depending on the age and physiological condition of the patient.
- Transabdominal (external) scanning.
This method is best for general examination at the gynecologist. It is done through the lower abdomen, that is, the abdominal wall.
This ultrasound is most comfortable for women; it is suitable for all patients, but requires special training. During pregnancy, external scanning is used starting from the 12th week.
- Transvaginal (cavitary scanning).
Such ultrasound diagnostics are carried out today in three main ways.
- Transvaginal (internal) ultrasound.
This method is used most often and is recognized as the most accurate and informative for examining the female pelvic organs. Internal echography is done using a special vaginal sensor, onto which a condom is placed.
The biggest advantage of such an ultrasound is that you practically do not need to specially prepare for it.
But this method is not suitable for girls who are not sexually active and patients with large tumors in the area under study.
- Transabdominal (external) ultrasound.
Pelvic ultrasound is performed on women and men for many reasons. Sometimes some patients try to avoid this type of diagnosis - either out of false modesty, or out of fear of finding out a bad diagnosis. Let's consider the main features of the procedure, its indications and contraindications, as well as what can be seen during such an examination.
-
Organs examined
The ultrasound method for studying the pelvic organs differs between representatives of both sexes. And this is mainly due to anatomical features analyzed organs.
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs is rightly considered an absolutely safe type of diagnosis, since it has not yet been discovered in modern clinical practice harmful effects ultrasound on the human body.
What is examined in women?
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs is used to examine the following organs in women:
- Ovarian
- Uterus
- Bladder
- Uterine cervix
- Fallopian tubes.
This type of diagnosis is also used to analyze the conditions of pregnancy.
What is examined in men?
This ultrasound is comprehensive examination and is used to analyze the condition of such organs:
- bladder (in this case, the amount of residual urine is additionally determined);
- prostate gland(adjacent tissues and lymph nodes are additionally examined);
- seminal vesicles.
In what cases is it carried out?
Indications for such examination for women
This procedure is carried out when:
- diagnosis of pregnancy abnormalities;
- pain in the lower abdomen;
- the appearance of vaginal bleeding;
- infertility.
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs is done in the following cases:
- Various urination disorders (when a patient consults a doctor with complaints of painful, frequent and difficult urination).
- Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder.
- Pain in the urinary area, as well as in the perineum and scrotum.
- Attacks of colic.
- The appearance of blood in seminal fluid and urine.
- Trauma to the urinary tract, perineum, prostate gland.
- If structural anomalies are detected genitourinary organs, as well as when deviations in the functioning of these organs are detected.
- If the patient has complaints of erectile dysfunction.
- To clarify the indicators obtained from a digital examination of the prostate gland.
It is necessary to do an ultrasound before scheduled surgical interventions on the pelvic organs.
How to prepare?
Men need to drink about a liter of liquid an hour to an hour and a half before undergoing a transabdominal examination.
The procedure itself is carried out when the urge to urinate appears.
If patients undergo transrectal diagnostic test Ultrasound of the pelvic organs, then you need to prepare for it several days in advance. The main thing is to avoid consuming foods that increase gas production. Their excessive quantity will interfere with normal examination.
Such products include:
- bread;
- alcoholic drinks, especially beer;
- vegetables containing coarse types of fiber;
- fermented milk dishes.
On the day when the transrectal ultrasound is performed, the intestines should be cleansed.
Women should have a bowel movement before a transvaginal examination. To reduce the formation of gases, you can take activated carbon, Mezim, etc.How does the research procedure work?
IN modern conditions this procedure occurs with maximum comfort for all patients. However, the methodology for carrying them out differs depending on gender. There may be slight pain if the sensor touches a painful area. Sometimes discomfort appear when the sensor is inserted into the rectum.
If a biopsy is performed (for example, of the prostate gland), then the patient experiences additional unpleasant sensations associated with the insertion of a thin needle into the organ. However, such sensations are minimal, since the doctor inserts the needle into a place where the number of nerve endings is minimal.
Carrying out the procedure in women
In women, the doctor conducts an examination transabdominally, transvaginally or transrectally.
During a transabdominal examination, the patient lies on a couch, which can freely change the angle of inclination and other parameters. A special harmless gel is applied to the skin (for a closer contact of the sensor with the skin).
The bladder should be full. The specialist moves the sensor over areas of the patient’s skin, pressing it against the skin. This way he can examine the organ being examined in more detail.
This type of examination is convenient because it is not invasive, i.e. during examination, the sensor does not penetrate into the natural environment of the body
A transvaginal test involves the doctor inserting an ultrasound probe into the vagina. A condom is placed over the sensor and a gel is applied to it. The position of the patient is the same as during a regular examination by a gynecologist.
With the transvaginal method, a full bladder is not required, and the information content of the procedure is much higher than with the transabdominal type of examination
A rectal examination involves inserting an ultrasound probe into the rectum. This type of procedure is prescribed to girls. The patient lies in a lateral position with her knees bent.
Features of the procedure for men
The doctor chooses one of the following methods for performing a pelvic ultrasound.
Transabdominal examination of the pelvic organs occurs using an ordinary sensor emitting ultrasound waves. It moves along the abdominal wall (the bladder must be full).Thus, the specialist can see the condition of all organs being examined, the thickness and structure of their walls and other parameters. The same diagnosis is carried out after urination (during such an examination, the doctor also determines the amount of remaining urine).
A rectal examination is performed using a specially designed probe that is inserted into the anus. This study is done in cases where the patient cannot long time hold urine in the bladder (this happens during inflammation of the organ, as well as with urinary incontinence).
In this way, it is possible to detect pathologies that are not visualized by conventional transabdominal examination. The doctor can clearly see stones, abscesses, cysts and other foreign objects. Sometimes, during a transrectal examination, a prostate biopsy is performed (this procedure is necessarily carried out under ultrasound guidance).
This type of examination combines high information content and accessibility, and also allows you to diagnose most possible pathologies
Doppler examination is an additional clarifying diagnosis. It makes it possible to see the causes of circulatory disorders in the pelvic organs and detect other vascular lesions.
Detected pathologies
Based on such a study, the doctor makes his conclusion and makes a diagnosis. The results can be provided in the form of pictures, or recorded on a digital disk.
In women
The doctor evaluates the structure of the uterine tissue, its dimensions and location, the location of the ovaries, and the presence of a follicle. In addition, the following parameters are examined:
- presence of formations of different nature and the degree of malignancy in the uterus and gonads;
urinary condition, its dimensions; - the presence of various types of pathologies of the colon and rectum.
- During the study, the results obtained are compared with the norm. The presence of deviations indicates certain dysfunctions of the body part being diagnosed:
- if the study showed a change in the thickness of the cervix, a change in the size of the uterine tubes - this indicates high risk development of cancer;
- if formations are visible in the image different sizes or geometric shape, this indicates the presence of cysts and fibroids in the body;
- a reduced uterus (as well as with enlarged ovaries) indicates that a woman has polycystic disease;
If such an examination shows that the examined organs have changed their echogenicity, the sonologist usually diagnoses endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
In men
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs in men visualizes:
- kidney stones;
- tumors of the urinary gland, prostate gland;
- disorders of the development and functioning of the urinary tract;
- neoplasms in the pelvic area;
- diseases of the prostate, seminal vesicles;
- anomalies of the rectum.
Choosing a research method
A pelvic ultrasound can be done using the methods described above; one of them is determined individually. Usually, when prescribing a gynecologist, he recommends a study, the time of its implementation and talks about preparation for diagnosis.
In the case when an ultrasound examination is carried out without first visiting a gynecologist, the choice of method and preparation for it is independent.
To all the girls who didn't start sex life, the study is performed transabdominally. The abdominal method requires pre-filling of the bladder to improve visualization.
For women, examination of the pelvic organs is most often performed transvaginally. However, it is possible to use both methods - first, examination through the abdomen, and then (after emptying the bladder) TVUS.
During pregnancy, the examination is performed transabdominally, and preliminary filling of the bladder is not required. TV is used in case of low position of the fetus.
Feelings during the study
Often among patients, especially young ones, the question arises about whether it hurts during an ultrasound.
Doing a transabdominal examination is absolutely painless. You can only feel a chill from applying the gel to the lower abdomen. With transvaginal, a short-term feeling of discomfort is possible when the sensor is inserted. If pain occurs during an ultrasound, you should tell your doctor about this, as this is not normal.
Frequency of ultrasound
This issue remains important and controversial in gynecological practice.
The harmlessness of the method has been confirmed by many years of experience. This allows ultrasound to be used in every if necessary. However, like any other study, ultrasound is correctly done when indicated. After menopause, annual ultrasound examinations are recommended.
Given the absence of harmful effects on women, frequent use of this method is possible. This makes it possible to conduct an annual analysis of women even before the onset of menopause and identify precancerous diseases and oncology at an early stage.
Study protocol
Every healthcare organization has its own template. The differences relate more to design, but all protocols have established measurement and evaluation parameters. An example of this (ultrasound of the pelvic organs) is presented below.
For research during pregnancy, there are separate protocols for each trimester. They must indicate the class of the apparatus (expert, high), since the quality and reliability of the analyzes depends on this.
Normal test results
OMT ultrasound can be performed at any age. In pediatric practice, the transabdominal method is used.
In newborn girls, the cervix is not differentiated; a general measurement of the uterus is performed. The size of the organ is increased by hormonal background mother, and the uterus shrinks during the first year of life. It is 8-10*10-15*30-40 mm. The organ restores this size by 7 years.
the arrow indicates a narrow cavity
Size Chart female organ depending on age.
Notes The length of the uterus up to 10 years was measured together with the cervix. After the start of menstruation, measurements are taken in the first phase of the cycle.
IN reproductive period indicators of uterine size have a wide range and depend on a number of factors (the presence and number of pregnancies, their interruptions, the number of births).
Table of uterine sizes during the reproductive period.
Ultrasound after menopause can detect uterine involution. The decrease in its value depends on the duration of menopause.
Size of the uterus at menopause.
The thickness of the endometrium is important parameter, which also changes during the menstrual cycle: from 0.6-0.9 cm in proliferation to 1.1-1.6 cm by the end of the cycle (photo of the endometrium during various phases is normal. No change in M-Echo during the cycle is a pathology, which indicates hormonal disorders.
the condition of the walls, the thickness of the layers and echogenicity are determined. The size of the ovaries also changes with age: active growth is observed in adolescence, and involution occurs with the onset of menopause.
Linear parameters are used to estimate size, but higher value has the volume of the ovaries. During the reproductive period, the volume norm does not exceed 8 cm³. With the onset of menopause, the volume decreases: after a year - to 4.5 cm³, 5 years - to 2.5 cm³, 10 years - no more than 1.5 cm³. At any age, the volume of the right and left ovaries should normally not differ by more than 1.5 cm³.
size, structure and echogenicity are determined
Uterus measurement video
The interpretation of the results should be carried out correctly taking into account age, reproductive history, and the day of the menstrual cycle (if menstruation is present).
Dopplerography
All types of ultrasound in gynecology can be supplemented with assessment of uterine blood flow. This method shows the condition of the arteries, and with the help of color flow, you can evaluate capillary blood flow and differentiate focal formations. Ultrasound ultrasound is important for obstetricians. Doppler ultrasound may show changes in blood flow in the uterine and umbilical cord vessels. Based on these parameters, the risk of intrauterine growth retardation at the preclinical stage is identified. In older women, examination of the venous network can reveal their varicose veins.
Standards for Doppler measurements include velocity indicators, and are also based on an assessment of the resistance index and systolic, systole-diastolic ratio.
Conclusion
After the doctor conducts this type diagnosis, the patient must wait some time until a conclusion is drawn up. This usually takes a short time. Based on the diagnostic results, the necessary treatment is prescribed or additional clinical examinations are carried out.
If a sonologist has prescribed a pelvic ultrasound for a patient, there is no need to refuse. After all, only based on the results of an accurate diagnosis can you choose the most effective treatment pelvic problems. On the contrary, untimely diagnosis has a negative impact on the effectiveness of treatment.
Additional photos
