A pelvic ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that helps doctors examine your reproductive organs, bladder, and pelvic structures. Whether you're experiencing unexplained pain, abnormal bleeding, or fertility concerns, this scan provides crucial insights. Here’s what Lagos patients should know.
🩺 When Should You Get a Pelvic Ultrasound?
For Women:
✔ Abnormal menstrual bleeding (heavy, irregular, or after menopause)
✔ Pelvic pain or pressure (chronic or sudden)
✔ Suspected ovarian cysts or fibroids
✔ Fertility issues (checking ovulation, uterine shape, excluding fibroid)
✔ Early pregnancy concerns (rule out ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage risk)
✔ IUD placement verification
For Men:
✔ Prostate enlargement symptoms (urinary difficulties or frequent urination)
✔ Testicular/scrotal abnormalities (often with a separate scrotal ultrasound)
For Both Genders:
✔ Bladder or urinary tract issues (stones, tumors, urinary retention)
✔ Post-surgery monitoring (e.g., after fibroid removal)
🔍 What Does a Pelvic Ultrasound Show?
1. Uterus & Ovaries
- Fibroids (benign growths)
- Polyps or endometrial thickening
- Ovarian cysts (functional vs. pathological)
- Signs of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
2. Pregnancy-Related Findings
- Early pregnancy confirmation
- Ectopic pregnancy detection
- Fetal heartbeat (from ~6 weeks)
- Placental position
3. Bladder & Pelvic Floor
- Bladder tumors or stones
- Urinary retention causes
- Pelvic organ prolapse
4. Prostate (in Men)
- Enlargement (BPH)
- Suspicious masses (may require further biopsy)
📌 Types of Pelvic Ultrasound
1. Transabdominal Ultrasound
- How it’s done: Probe on lower abdomen
- Preparation: Full bladder required
- Best for: General pelvic overview
2. Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVS)
- How it’s done: Slim probe inserted vaginally
- Preparation: Empty bladder
- Best for: Detailed uterine/ovary imaging
3. Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS - for men)
- How it’s done: Probe inserted rectally
- Preparation: Enema may be needed
- Best for: Prostate evaluation
🏥 What to Expect During the Scan (Lagos Clinics)
✔ Duration: 15-30 minutes
✔ Process:
- You’ll lie on an exam table
- Gel applied to skin (abdominal) or covered probe (transvaginal/rectal)
- Images captured in real-time
✔ Discomfort Level: - Transabdominal: None (just pressure)
- Transvaginal: Mild discomfort (similar to pap smear)
⚠️ When to Seek Immediate Scanning
Don’t delay if you experience:
🔴 Severe pelvic pain + fever (possible abscess/infection)
🔴 Heavy bleeding with dizziness (signs of rupture)
🔴 Pregnancy with sharp pain + bleeding (ectopic risk)
Lagos Reality: Traffic delays can worsen emergencies—head to the nearest quality facility.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is transvaginal ultrasound safe during pregnancy?
A: Yes, if medically needed (common in early pregnancy checks).
Q: How often should women get pelvic ultrasounds?
A: Only when symptoms arise or as your doctor advises—no routine schedule.
Q: Can it detect STDs like PID?
A: No, but it can show PID complications (abscesses, scarring).
Q: Do virgins need transvaginal scans?
A: No—abdominal scans are usually sufficient (inform your doctor).
💡 Why Early Pelvic Scanning Matters
Many Lagos patients endure symptoms for months before scanning. Early detection helps:
✔ Prevent fertility damage (e.g., from untreated PID)
✔ Avoid surgeries
✔ Rule out cancers (ovarian/endometrial)
📢 Take Action for Your Pelvic Health!
If you’re experiencing:
- Unexplained pelvic pain
- Abnormal bleeding
- Pregnancy concerns
- Urinary symptoms
📞 Consult your doctor about a pelvic ultrasound today!