What should you know about transvaginal ultrasound during period?

The sonographer places a covered, lubricated probe gently into the vagina to view the uterus, womb lining, cervix, ovaries and nearby pelvic structures. Menstrual blood may be present on the cover or probe, but it does not automatically make the examination impossible. Some scans are timed to a particular part of the cycle because the womb lining and follicles change as the cycle progresses.

The scan may help investigate pelvic pain, unusual bleeding, fertility concerns or an ovarian finding. It can also support assessment of [Ovarian Cysts](/conditions/ovarian-cysts/) and other pelvic conditions. The person performing the scan cannot always give a diagnosis during the appointment; a report is usually sent to the referring clinician.

Tell the clinic that you are bleeding and ask whether the appointment should stay as planned. Use a pad rather than a tampon or menstrual cup if the clinic requests removal before the scan. Wear clothing that is easy to change, empty your bladder if instructed, and tell the sonographer about pain, pregnancy possibility or previous difficult examinations.

You can ask for an explanation before each step, a chaperone, a pause or to stop. If an internal scan is not suitable for you, discuss another imaging approach or [Diagnostic Hysteroscopy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-imaging/diagnostic-hysteroscopy/) where clinically appropriate.

Seek urgent care for severe or one-sided pelvic pain, fainting, shoulder-tip pain, heavy bleeding, fever or a positive pregnancy test with pain or bleeding. These symptoms can require assessment for conditions such as [Ectopic Pregnancy](/conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/). A scan appointment should not delay emergency help.

Ask whether the scan is timed to your cycle, whether you need a full or empty bladder, what to use during bleeding, whether a chaperone is available, and when you will receive the report.