Ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves in order to produce images of your reproductive health system. These images can help OBGYNs detect and diagnose a plethora of conditions.

The first thing you may think of when you hear the word ultrasound maybe pregnancy. Ultrasounds definitely can be used to monitor the development and health of a baby in the womb. In fact, this is one of the most common uses of ultrasound, but on top of this, ultrasounds can ensure you have good general reproductive health. Whether you are pregnant or not, don’t be surprised if your OBGYN pulls out ultrasound technology.

Before your ultrasound even begins you will be asked to remove any jewelry and clothes around the area being examined. Next, you’ll be asked to lie down on an exam table.

There are two different types of ultrasounds that could be used depending on what your OBGYN is looking for:

1. Transvaginal ultrasound

A transvaginal ultrasound gives your gynecologist a very clear picture of your uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix, and ovaries. During this ultrasound, your doctor will insert a long, thin transducer into your vagina. This ultrasound shouldn’t be painful at all. If it does hurt, tell your ultrasound tech.

2. Transabdominal Ultrasound

A transabdominal ultrasound is performed while lying on your back. You will get a special gel put on your abdomen and then your doctor will gently press a transducer across your stomach. This type of ultrasound should give your doctor a good picture of your reproductive organs.

After your ultrasound is finished, a radiologist analyzes the images and reports back to your doctor. Your
doctor will then talk through any irregularities with you and discuss the next steps that may need to be taken.

Ultrasounds can be used in many different medical fields. In women’s health, they are often used to detect ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and tumors. Additionally, they can help diagnose endometriosis, detect blockages in the fallopian tubes, and detect the presence of pelvic inflammatory disease.

How you prepare for your ultrasound will be highly dependent on what type of ultrasound is going to be performed. Your doctor or the ultrasound clinic should give you all the information you need on how to properly prepare.

Transabdominal Exam Preparation
For a pelvic exam, you will need to have a bladder full of water. You should start drinking one liter of water within two hours of your appointment. The water needs to be finished one hour before the appointment. Make sure not to empty your bladder or the ultrasound will not work.

Transvaginal Exam Preparation
Preparing for a transvaginal exam is the easiest. There is no preparation required! Usually, you’ll be asked to empty your bladder right before the exam. Even if you’re on your period, an ultrasound can be performed.

First Trimester Pregnancy
When you’re in your first trimester of pregnancy, you’ll need to have a full bladder for your ultrasound. Drink about 28 ounces two hours before the exam and finish it one hour before the exam. Don’t empty your bladder!

Second and Third Trimester Pregnancy
During your second and third trimesters, your bladder needs to be full. Two hours before the ultrasound drink 28 ounces of water. Make sure to finish this water one hour prior to your appointment time. Don’t empty your bladder!

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