Pelvic (Female) Ultrasound
Female pelvic ultrasound is commonly the initial imaging investigation requested for Pelvic symptoms such as pain, bloating, irregular or heavy bleeding, and absence of menstruation. It involves assessment of the female pelvic organs including the uterus and ovaries.
Not all causes of Pelvic symptoms are identifiable on ultrasound and further investigation may be required.
As of the 1st of June 2021, pregnancy and pelvic ultrasounds will incur a private fee (medicare rebate available to medicare card holders). Concession card holders will still be bulk billed for these scans (concession, healthcare or pensioner's card must be presented at the time of their service to be eligible for bulk billing).
What to bring
• A referral from your doctor or specialist is required for this examination, please ensure you bring this to your appointment (the ultrasound cannot be performed without a valid referral from your Doctor).
• Medicare card and Healthcare / Concession Card (If applicable)
• Previous imaging report not performed at Southwest Ultrasound
Preparation
You will need a full bladder for this scan, please drink 750 ml of water (not coffee or tea) at least one (1) hour before your appointment and hold this fluid until after your appointment.
Do NOT empty your bladder until after the examination.
What to expect during my procedure
Once you arrive at Southwest Ultrasound, you may be asked by the Sonographer to change into a gown and to lie on an examination table. You will be covered during your examination except for the area required to be examined. The Sonographer performing the examination may begin by discussing your medical history. Ultrasound gel will then be applied to the area to be examined. The Sonographer who will perform your examination will apply a warm layer of gel to your pelvis. This allows for good contact between the skin and the ultrasound transducer. A series of routine images will be taken for each pelvic organ.
Pelvic ultrasounds often involve Transabdominal and Transvaginal scanning techniques. Transvaginal scanning can often give more detailed images of the female pelvic organs. If you consent to a Transvaginal (internal) scan, the Sonographer will begin the scan Abdominally, allow you empty your bladder before proceeding with the internal scan.
A small disinfected probe, about the same diameter as a tampon, is covered with a protective cover and lubricated with gel before being inserted a short distance into the vagina. Minimal discomfort is involved.
You will always have a choice about whether the Transvaginal ultrasound is performed, so please discuss any concerns you may have with your Sonographer before your scan is performed.
Risks and side effects
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images, there are no known side effects from having a diagnostic ultrasound scan performed for medical imaging purposes.
The Sonographer applies techniques to ensure that your scan is a safe procedure. For this reason, your scan should only be performed by an accredited Sonographer, or trained medical practitioner, and a scan should only be performed when clinically indicated.
Who will perform and report my examination
At Southwest Ultrasound your ultrasound examination will be carried out by a Sonographer (a technologist trained in ultrasound imaging) and accredited by the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry (ASAR). Your images will be reviewed and reported by a radiologist (a medical doctor specializing in the interpretation of medical images).
How do I receive my results?
Results will be made available to your referring doctor within 24 – 48 hours. In an emergency situation, you referring doctor will be contacted.
