What to know about a vaginal ultrasound

It may be offered to investigate pelvic pain, unusual bleeding, fertility concerns or an early pregnancy. The scan does not use ionising radiation, and you remain in control of whether it proceeds.

A trained clinician places a slim, covered ultrasound probe a short distance into the vagina and gently changes its angle to view the pelvic organs. Gel helps the probe move and transmit sound waves. You will usually be given privacy to undress from the waist down and a sheet for cover.

The scan can feel uncomfortable, especially if you already have pelvic pain, but you can ask the clinician to pause or stop at any point. Tell the team beforehand about pain, past trauma, latex sensitivity, mobility needs or concerns about an internal examination so they can adapt the appointment.

Follow the instructions from your imaging centre because preparation can differ if an abdominal scan is also planned. For the internal part, you are commonly asked to empty your bladder and remove a tampon or menstrual cup. A period does not automatically prevent the examination.

Bring the referral details and a list of medicines if requested. Ask whether a chaperone will be present and whether a support person may attend. The images need interpretation in the context of your symptoms, examination and medical history, so arrange to learn when and how the report will be explained.

Do not wait for a routine scan appointment if you might be pregnant and develop severe or one-sided lower abdominal pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, marked dizziness or heavy vaginal bleeding. These symptoms need urgent assessment because an ectopic pregnancy can present this way.

After the scan, seek prompt medical advice for severe or worsening pain, heavy bleeding, fever, fainting or feeling acutely unwell. Mild temporary discomfort may occur, but significant new symptoms should not be dismissed as an expected result of the examination.

Ask what clinical question the scan is intended to answer, whether an abdominal scan is also needed, and what alternatives are available if you do not want or cannot tolerate an internal scan. You can also ask who will perform it, how privacy is protected and when the referring clinician will discuss the result.