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Gynecological ultrasound is a prophylactic examination of female genitalia performed with the use of an ultrasound machine. Most often, gynecological ultrasound is performed during pregnancy and after childbirth. Regular screening every two years is also recommended for all adult women. The test allows for a precise diagnosis of diseases and injuries within the reproductive organs.
What is gynecological ultrasound?
Gynecological ultrasound examination should be performed prophylactically every two years. The doctor may also order its performance in pregnant women, after childbirth, and for various diagnostic or control purposes. On the basis of gynecological ultrasound, the condition of the reproductive organs, the cervix and uterine body, ovaries, the condition of the uterine mucosa and Douglas Bay are assessed.
The examination can be performed at the National Health Fund, if we receive a referral. Price of gynecological ultrasound made privately, it can be around PLN 100-200, depending on the office.
When is gynecological ultrasound performed?
Gynecological ultrasound is performed in the case of suspicion of health problems related to organs such as uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries. First of all, it is performed to diagnose:
- abnormal structure of the pelvic bones,
- abnormal structure of the pelvic muscles,
- abnormal tissue structure of the pelvic blood vessels,
- anatomical defects in the genital area,
- neoplastic lesions of the genital organs,
- abnormal endometrial thickness,
- cysts on the genitals,
- an ectopic pregnancy,
- incorrect location of the intrauterine devices.
In addition, a gynecological ultrasound is recommended in the event of such occurrence symptoms of unknown origin, how:
- non-period vaginal bleeding
- sudden and unexpected pain in the lower abdomen,
- menstrual cycle disorders,
- increasing menstrual pain,
- excessively heavy periods,
- cessation of menstrual bleeding,
- inability to get pregnant,
- inability to report pregnancy,
- cysts on the ovaries of unknown origin,
- suspicion of polycystic ovary syndrome.
Stands out two types of gynecological ultrasound. The first is a transvaginal, vaginal examination. It is the most common type of gynecological ultrasound. They are used in patients who have already had their first sexual intercourse and thus lost their hymen. In virgin patients, the transabdominal or rectal method is used to prevent the hymen from breaking or tearing.
- Read also about 3D and 4D ultrasound for pregnant women.
The course of gynecological ultrasound
The gynecological ultrasound examination is non-invasive and painless. During it, the ultrasound machine emits ultrasound waves, thanks to which a 2-, 3- or 4-dimensional image is reproduced, showing the structure of the female reproductive organs in detail. This allows for a precise assessment of such properties of individual organs as: surface, size, shape, interior, location and potential abnormalities.
In the case of transvaginal ultrasound, the doctor inserts an oblong probe into the woman’s body. It is secured with a special cover and covered with a gel that facilitates its insertion. The diameter of the probe is only 2 centimeters, thanks to which its insertion is painless and easy to perform. For transabdominal testing, the probe is placed at the lower abdominal wall. In both cases, gynecological ultrasound takes from a few to several minutes.
Precautions
Before starting the test, appropriate preparations should be made. It is recommended to choose a day for the gynecological ultrasound examination just after the end of menstrual bleeding. The optimal time to perform the test is 5-10 days after the bleeding has stopped. Performing this test during the period may be significantly difficult and may be associated with the risk of infection of the woman’s body. In postmenopausal women, the examination date is optional, unless the patient is supplementing sex hormones (HRT). In this case, she should wait 6-10 days after taking the last tablet.
In the case of Transvaginal ultrasound it is recommended to take care of the intimate area immediately before the examination. First of all, the genitals should be thoroughly washed and the urinary bladder emptied.
- Also read: Nipple ultrasound – when to do the examination?
In the case of transabdominal gynecological ultrasound, patients should proceed with the procedure with a completely filled bladder. This is an important condition because gases accumulating in the intestines can block sound waves, and thus deform the image of the reproductive organs created on their basis. Therefore, it is recommended that women planning to perform a gynecological ultrasound using this method should drink a liter of water about an hour before the examination.
Moreover, regardless of the method of gynecological ultrasound examination, it is necessary to prepare information about the date of the last menstruation and inform the doctor about all medications taken and any diseases related to the organs of the reproductive system. It is also worth preparing information on the course of the recently performed gynecological ultrasound, if any.