What should you know about transvaginal ultrasound when pregnant?

In early pregnancy, the uterus and pregnancy may be easier to see with an internal scan than through the abdomen. It can help assess the location of the pregnancy, the womb lining, the ovaries, and changes that need follow-up. The scan does not cause a miscarriage when performed by a trained clinician.

You may notice pressure as the probe is inserted and moved. It should not be forced. Tell the clinician about pain, bleeding, previous difficult examinations, or concerns about the procedure so the examination can be adapted.

Follow the clinic's instructions about your bladder and arrive in clothing that is easy to change. You can request a chaperone, ask for a step-by-step explanation, and agree on a signal to pause. After the scan, light spotting or mild cramping may occur, but ask how to report symptoms and when results will be shared.

An ultrasound can identify a pregnancy in the uterus or show why another assessment is needed. An ectopic pregnancy develops outside the uterus and needs urgent medical attention; a scan finding is interpreted alongside your symptoms and examination.

Seek urgent medical assessment for severe or one-sided pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, marked dizziness, or shoulder-tip pain during pregnancy. These symptoms can occur with ectopic pregnancy or another urgent problem. Do not wait for a routine scan if you feel seriously unwell.

Ask what the scan is checking, whether your pregnancy location and development can be seen, what symptoms should prompt urgent help, and when you will receive the report. Ask whether you need repeat imaging if the result is not yet conclusive.