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
Common questions
What happens at a pelvic ultrasound?
A pelvic ultrasound uses sound waves - no radiation - to picture the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures, and it comes in two forms. The transabdominal version runs a probe over your lower belly and works best with a full bladder, which lifts the organs into view - expect to drink water beforehand and hold it. The transvaginal version places a thin, covered probe just inside the vagina with the bladder empty or partly filled; it sits much closer to the organs, so it produces sharper images of the uterus and ovaries. MedlinePlus notes most women feel no pain during a transvaginal ultrasound, though the probe pressure can cause mild discomfort. Either way, the scan itself takes around 15 to 30 minutes, you lie on your back with knees bent, and warm gel is the messiest part. Results go to your doctor, who explains what the images showed. Pymander, a free AI doctor available 24/7 by text, can help you understand why one was ordered and what terms in the report mean.