Transvaginal Ultrasound: What to Expect & What It Reveals

A transvaginal ultrasound is done as part of a pelvic ultrasound examination. A special camera, called a transducer, is inserted into the vaginal canal to obtain images of the female pelvic organs. Transvaginal ultrasounds produce different images from abdominal ultrasounds.

Detailed Images

• A transvaginal ultrasound uses higher frequency ultrasound waves than an abdominal ultrasound. This produces more detailed images.

Clearer Images

• Bowel gas and fat contribute to grainy images with an abdominal ultrasound. These are much less of an issue with a transvaginal ultrasound, and images are less likely to be grainy.

Endometrium

• The endometrium is the inner of the lining uterus, which cannot be seen well using an abdominal ultrasound. A transvaginal ultrasound provides a detailed view of the endometrium and any contents that may be present.

Uterus

• While the uterus can be seen with an abdominal ultrasound, it is seen with much greater detail using a transvaginal ultrasound. Clearly delineated tumors and other structures may be more clearly seen using a transvaginal ultrasound.

Ovarian Follicles

• The ovaries are much less likely to be seen with an abdominal ultrasound. A transvaginal ultrasound shows the ovaries more often, and the ovarian follicles can be seen and examined as well.