When is transvaginal ultrasound recommended for womb cancer?

During this examination, a narrow ultrasound probe is placed gently inside the vagina to create images of the womb, its lining, and nearby structures. It can help assess the lining and identify areas that need closer investigation. It cannot by itself confirm womb cancer; a sample of the lining may be needed for diagnosis.

The scan may also help a specialist plan the next step after a diagnosis, alongside examination, biopsy, and other imaging. The timing depends on your symptoms, menopausal status, previous results, and the clinical question.

Tell the imaging team if you have pain, vaginal bleeding, an infection, or difficulty with internal examinations. Ask what preparation is required and whether you can have a chaperone. You can usually discuss stopping or continuing medicines with the referring team rather than changing them yourself.

Ask when the report will be reviewed and whether a biopsy is needed if the lining appears unusual. Read more about [Transvaginal Ultrasound](/treatments/diagnostics-and-imaging/transvaginal-ultrasound/) and [Womb Cancer](/conditions/endometrial-cancer/).

Arrange medical review for bleeding after menopause, bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex, or a persistent change in your usual bleeding pattern. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding with dizziness, fainting, severe pelvic pain, or weakness. These symptoms have several possible causes, so assessment is needed rather than assuming a cancer diagnosis.

What are you looking for on the scan? Will I need a womb-lining biopsy? How will the result affect the next step? What symptoms should make me contact the clinic sooner?