What happens at a pelvic ultrasound?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
Sound waves - no radiation - picture the uterus and ovaries, either via a probe on the belly with a full bladder or a thin probe in the vagina with an empty one. The transvaginal version sits closer to the organs and gives sharper images; MedlinePlus notes most women feel no pain, only mild pressure. The scan takes about 15 to 30 minutes and results go to your doctor.
What to do
- Follow the bladder instructions. Full bladder for the belly version, empty for the vaginal version - the instructions make the images readable.
- Expect pressure, not pain. Say something if anything genuinely hurts.
- Ask which type you are getting. Some appointments include both, belly first, then vaginal after emptying.
- Get the results explained. Terms like cysts and fibroids are common findings and usually manageable - your doctor translates.
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