What should you know about preparing for a transvaginal ultrasound?

A covered, lubricated probe is gently placed in the vagina to produce detailed images of the uterus, cervix, ovaries and nearby structures. It may be used to investigate pelvic pain or bleeding, assess an early pregnancy or examine a finding such as an ovarian cyst. The scan does not use radiation. You can ask the sonographer to pause or stop at any point.

Read the appointment instructions because bladder preparation varies by scan and service. Wear clothing that is easy to remove from the waist down, and tell the clinician about pregnancy, bleeding, infection symptoms, pain or previous difficult examinations. You may request a chaperone and discuss alternatives if an internal scan is unsuitable. Slow breathing and clear communication can make the examination more manageable.

Mild pressure or brief discomfort can occur, but tell the clinician immediately if the examination is painful. Seek medical advice for heavy bleeding, worsening pelvic pain, fever, faintness or unusual discharge after the scan. If you have severe one-sided pain, collapse or bleeding during possible pregnancy, seek emergency care because urgent conditions such as ectopic pregnancy need prompt assessment.

Should my bladder be full or empty? What will the scan assess, and when will results be discussed? Can I have a chaperone or request a different approach if I feel pain or distress?