What is Transvaginal Ultrasonography?

Transvaginal ultrasonography, in which a lubricated probe is inserted into the vagina, allows evaluation of the pelvic anatomy.

A transvaginal ultrasound exam is well tolerated by most clients because it alleviates the need for a full bladder. The client is placed in a lithotomy position or with her pelvis elevated by towels, cushions, or a folded blanket.

Indications for Transvaginal Ultrasonography:

• To evaluate obese patients
• To assist in differentiating gynecologic organs from other organs
• To more accurately evaluate the character of a lesion
• To more sensitively detect ascites
• To serially evaluate growth or regression of a lesion
• To evaluate noninvasively a nonpalpable ovary in a postmenopausal patient
• To avoid surgery and facilitate ultrasound-guided biopsy (not as a substitute for second look laparotomy in patients with ovarian cancer)
• To differentiate an ovarian or uterine mass from normal organs
• To assess movement of pelvic organs ("sliding-organ" sign)
• To collect oocytes for in vitro fertilization

*The procedure is not physically painful, although the woman may feel pressure as the probe is moved.