Ultrasound is a safe and widely used imaging technique. Ultrasound produces detailed pictures of the body in real-time using high-frequency sound waves, which are produced by a special ultrasound probe, called a transducer. The probe sends sound waves into the body and then "listens" for echoes reflected back from body structures. The frequency of these sound waves is higher than that detected by the human ear and, when they are reflected by a part of the body, are detected by the probe. An ultrasound image is produced from these detected echoes based upon their intensity and time taken to return to the probe. The images are captured in real time on the monitor and appear as both static and moving images enhancing the diagnostic capability of the test. Ultrasound has no known harmful effects.
Pelvic ultrasounds may be performed by examination of the abdomen called transabdominal and also by using a special probe designed to be inserted into the vagina, called transvaginal. The type of examination you will need will depend on what your referring doctor has requested and the nature of the clinical condition being investigated. Transvaginal ultrasound is commonly performed in conjunction with a pelvic ultrasound
Hours of operation: Monday through Saturday (no Sunday appointments)
Your examination or scan will be performed by or a fully certified trained ultrasonographer. Because the examiner is interpreting moving images on a screen, a high degree of concentration is required to obtain accurate information. Therefore, family and friends of the patient are not permitted to watch or be in the examination room. If you have accompanying children, you will have to bring someone with you to watch them during your examination.
You will remain covered during your examination except for the area being imaged. In order to obtain optimal images, a layer of gel will be applied to the area being imaged so that good contact is made between you and the ultrasound probe. The probe will be placed directly onto the gel and your skin for the duration of the examination. You may also be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during the scan time. The scan is completely painless, although pressure may be applied to improve the image quality. Please tell the sonographer should this become uncomfortable.
Transvaginal scans are frequently performed in the first trimester of pregnancy and also in the late stages of pregnancy and at other times to get a close up view of the pelvic organs. The transvaginal scan is performed with an empty bladder and, as a result, many patients find it more comfortable. The small, sterilized probe, about the same diameter as a thumb, is lubricated with gel before insertion into the vagina. A protective cover (a condom) is placed over the transducer each time it is used, so there is no risk of infection. Transvaginal scans are only performed if requested or clinically indicated and always with the patient’s consent. Please discuss any issues you may have with the sonographer.
Most ultrasound examinations will be completed within 30-45 minutes, however, some studies will take longer, especially if a transvaginal scan is indicated after the initial ultrasound is performed. The radiologist will then interpret all images produced during the examination and the results will be forwarded to your doctor within 2-3 business day. We can provide you with some still pictures should you wish. We do not provide video tapes or allow patients to use electronic devices during the ultrasound examination.
Please park off of Noxon St., in the Visitor parking lot, located to the southeast, south and southwest of the hospital. Enter the hospital through the Registration / Emergency (ER) Entrance. Continue to Registration, just up the hall and on the left.
If you have any questions or need to re-schedule your appointment, please contact our scheduling department at 519-485-9611 (Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00).
Please bring your health card and requisition.
NOTE: If not properly prepared, the examination will be rescheduled.
