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Fetal Medicine - Gynecological Scans in Dhakuria

Gynecological Scans

Gynecological Scans in Dhakuria

A Gynaecological Scan is a diagnostic test which helps view the pelvic organs like the uterus or womb, ovaries, bladder, rectum, or final portion of the large intestine using an ultrasound probe placed inside the vagina (transvaginal). Because a transvaginal probe is so close to the internal genitalia, it is an extremely thorough examination. Moreover, the transvaginally obtained resolution is superior to that of an abdominal probe such as those positioned on the abdomen during pregnancy.

Ultrasound technique used during pregnancy creates an image but doesn't emit any radiation. This implies that the patient won't have any adverse effects from as many ultrasounds as needed. It is possible to perform several ultrasounds as required without endangering the patient. In addition, it is a dynamic test; it is interpreted in real time as it is performed. It allows the movement of the organs and the relationship between them to be observed, whether or not they are attached, and allows painful areas to be identified. 

FAQ's

A Gynaecological Scan is performed when it is suspected that the person has a visible disease of the internal genital organs such as the uterus or womb, fallopian tubes, or ovaries.

  • If a woman has very heavy menstrual bleeding, a Gynaecological Ultrasound can rule out the presence of polyps or fibroids, benign tumours in the uterus, or may indicate a malignant uterine tumour.
  • In women with abdominal pain around the pubis or on both sides, an ultrasound scan can identify whether there are ovarian tumours, both benign and malignant.
  • If a woman’s periods are irregular or widely spaced, ultrasound can help diagnose the cause of hormonal disturbances or premature ovarian ageing.
  • If menstruation is very painful, this test will show whether the pain is caused by diseases such as endometriosis.
  • Intrauterine devices (IUDs) can also be seen, and ultrasounds are used to check their location.
  • Some gynaecological diseases also affect the bladder, urethra, or bowel wall, all of which can be identified. Other uses of ultrasound include assessing how a mesh is positioned under the urethra to treat urinary incontinence or examining some anatomical features of women with vaginal prolapse of the organs.
  • We sometimes perform Gynaecological Ultrasounds to rule out pathology in women who have no symptoms but are at risk of developing a disease, as a form of screening. For example, women who have a genetic alteration increase their risk of uterine or ovarian cancer.

Gynaecological Ultrasound may be performed using one or both of 2 methods:

  • Transabdominal (through the abdomen). A transducer is placed on the abdomen using the conductive gel.
  • Transvaginal (through the vagina). A long, thin transducer is covered with the conducting gel and a plastic/latex sheath is inserted into the vagina.

The type of ultrasound procedure performed depends on the reason for performing the ultrasound. Only one method may be used, or both methods may be needed to provide the information needed for diagnosis or treatment. Other related procedures that may be used to evaluate problems of the pelvis include Hysteroscopy, Colposcopy, and Laparoscopy.

 The organs of the pelvis are: 

  • Endometrium: This forms the lining of the uterus.  
  • Uterus: The uterus is also called the womb. The organ is located between the bladder and the rectum in a woman's lower abdomen. The uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped structure. Every month while menstruating, it sheds its lining unless an ovum, or fertilised egg, implants and causes pregnancy. 
  • Ovaries: Two female reproductive organs are located in the pelvis, in which egg cells (ova) develop and are stored, and where the female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone are produced. 
  • Cervix: The lower, narrow part of the uterus is located between the bladder and the rectum, forming a canal that opens into the vagina, which leads to the outside of the body.
  • Vagina: The vagina is also called the birth canal. the channel via which bodily fluid exits the body during menstruation. The vagina joins the vulva (the external genitalia) and the cervix. 
  • Vulva: The external portion of the female genital organs.
  • At least an hour before your appointment, consume at least 4 glasses of clear liquid. Hold off on urinating until after the test.
  • A pelvic ultrasound usually doesn't require fasting or sedation unless it's a component of a more involved operation that calls for anaesthesia.
  • You must empty your bladder just before a transvaginal ultrasound.
  • You will receive an explanation of the procedure from your doctor, along with an opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
  • Your doctor can ask for further special preparation, depending on your medical condition.

There is no radiation or discomfort caused by the application of the ultrasound transducer to the skin during a Transabdominal Ultrasound. You may experience slight discomfort with the insertion of the transvaginal transducer into the vagina. Patients who are allergic to latex may experience an adverse response when using Transvaginal Ultrasound, as the ultrasound transducer needs to be covered in a plastic or latex sheath. Lying on the examination table or having a full bladder can cause discomfort during Transabdominal Ultrasonography. Depending on your particular medical condition, there can be contraindications. Before the procedure, make sure you express any concerns you may have to your doctor. 

Some elements or circumstances can affect the test's outcome. These consist of the following, but are not restricted to: 

  • Severe obesity. 
  • Intestinal gas.
  • Barium within the intestines from recent barium procedures. 
  • Insufficient bladder filling using transabdominal ultrasonography. For improved imaging, a full bladder helps push the bowel away and raise the uterus.