Behind the scenes: What really happens during a transvaginal scan?
It’s normal to feel nervous, but our consultant gynaecologist Miss Akila Karthikeyan is here to offer some comforting advice and reassurance.
If you’ve been referred for a transvaginal scan, also known as an internal scan, it’s only natural to feel a little intimidated or scared. After all, it is an intimate procedure and often not something that’s openly discussed.
But, these scans can provide detailed images of female pelvic organs such as the uterus, ovaries, cervix and if swollen, your fallopian tubes. Images help to diagnose any potential problems, or hopefully, rule out any problems which you may be concerned about.
Scans can bring about feelings of anxiety and worry however.
“I see it in a clinic a lot: many women are nervous before these scans, simply because they don’t know what will happen,” says Miss Akila Karthikeyan, consultant gynaecologist at London Gynaecology.
“Feeling nervous before such an intimate medical examination is natural. You may worry about discomfort or embarrassment during the scan, or you may have even had a bad experience in the past which has left you even more anxious.”
The scan itself is short and generally pain-free and you’ll be in safe hands with one of our specialist clinicians. Before your scan, it’s good to know exactly what’s what.
Here, Akila explains everything you need to know.
What is a transvaginal ultrasound and why do I need one?
Put simply, a transvaginal ultrasound is an internal scan that uses sound waves to create detailed images of your pelvic organs.
Explaining the process, Akila says: “A slim ultrasound probe is gently inserted into your vagina, allowing a much clearer view of your uterus, ovaries and pelvis than an external (abdominal) scan.
“The probe sits closer to the organs being examined, which means it can provide high-res images that help guide accurate diagnosis and treatment.”
If you’re struggling with pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding, then you may need a scan to help unearth any potential problems including fibroids, cysts, polyps or inflammation leading to swollen tubes.
Transvaginal scans are also used to assess periods or fertility concerns; check your ovaries and uterus; monitor early pregnancy; and even investigate any unexplained symptoms you may be experiencing, such as bloating.
What do I need to do before my scan?
Preparation for a transvaginal scan is usually minimal, but sometimes, you may be asked to follow certain instructions to help improve the quality of the images produced. This helps to ensure that the scan gives the clearest and most accurate results possible.
“You will usually be asked to empty your bladder before a scan,” says Akila. This is so the probe that’s inserted internally, can capture clearer pictures,” says Akila.
It’s best to wear comfortable clothing that’s easy to remove from the waist down and if it makes you feel more comfortable, you might want to bring a friend or family member with you for support.
Feeling anxious?
“There’s no such thing as being ‘difficult’. I want my patients to tell me how they’re feeling, so I can put their minds at rest, so don’t be worried about speaking up,” says Akila.
What happens during the scan?
In the scanning room, you’ll be asked to undress from the waist down and cover yourself with a sheet. You’ll be able to do this in privacy, behind a curtain.
When you’re ready, you’ll be asked to lie on the examination couch, usually with your knees bent.
Akila explains: “The probe is slim and covered with a lubricant, which makes it easier to insert. Many women are very nervous and automatically tense up, but I always encourage you to relax, as the probe is far more comfortable if you’re not clenching.
“Most women are surprised by how small the probe is and you will likely feel a mild pressure rather than pain.”
The scan usually takes no more than 20 minutes.
“During the scan, I gently move the probe around in order to visualise different organs. If at any point you feel pain, I can pause or stop the scan,” reassures Akila.
After the scan: results and next steps
Typically, your scan results can be discussed immediately, there and then.
“I usually talk through what I can see straight away,” says Akila. “However, if further tests or treatment are needed, I’ll tell my patient and advise them of the next steps.”
Transvaginal scans are often just routine and there’s no need to feel worried. But, as Akila explains, the aim at London Gynaecology isn’t just to diagnose, manage and treat any problems, but also to make you feel as informed and as comfortable as possible during procedures.
“Remember, you won’t be the first woman who’s anxious about a scan and you won’t be the last, so please never feel alone,” says Akila.
“Myself and the other gynaecologists at London Gynaecology want you to feel at ease, so don’t be afraid to ask questions or voice any concerns.”