Patient Instructions - Pelvic Ultrasound

A pelvic ultrasound (or sonogram) is an exam that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce a picture of the inside of your pelvis or lower abdomen. No radiation or X-rays are necessary. A pelvic ultrasound is performed to look for causes of pelvic discomfort, which may be related to problems with your ovaries, uterus or other structures in the pelvis. The exam may detect abnormalities of these organs including enlargements, cysts or tumors.

Before your Ultrasound

• Drink 32 ounces of water 1 hour before your examination.

• Do not empty your bladder before the ultrasound exam.

• You may eat normally.

During your Ultrasound

• A registered sonographer will move a hand-held device called a transducer over your skin.

• Pictures of your pelvic organs will appear on a video screen and several images and measurements will be recorded.

• You may be asked to move into different positions on the exam table.

• Occasionally, you may need to have additional pictures taken from the inside of your vagina. By inserting a transducer, shaped like and slightly smaller than a tampon, into your vagina, additional pictures are obtained.

• Your pelvic ultrasound will take approximately 30-45 minutes.

After your Ultrasound

• You may empty your bladder and resume your normal activities.

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. To help ensure quality and safety, we ask that you do not bring young children with you to your appointments, as children are not allowed to accompany you during Imaging procedures. Staff is unable to monitor your child in your absence.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your provider.