Pelvic sonography helps physicians examine organs in the lower abdomen and pelvis. It can provide information about reproductive health or help explain urinary symptoms. National Polytechnic College (NPCollege) prepares future sonographers through our Diagnostic Medical Sonography program in Lakewood, CA. Here, we explain how pelvic ultrasound works and the sonographer’s role.
Key Takeaways
- Pelvic sonography uses sound waves to image organs in the lower abdomen, either internally or externally.
- Physicians order pelvic ultrasounds to evaluate pain, bleeding, masses, and pregnancy.
- Sonographers capture images and document findings for physician interpretation.
- NPCollege offers a Diagnostic Medical Sonography program that trains students in the technical and patient-care skills they need.
What Is Pelvic Sonography?
Pelvic sonography, also called pelvic ultrasound, creates real-time images using a probe called a transducer. The probe sends sound waves into the body and receives returning echoes. A computer converts those echoes into images. Because it uses sound waves rather than ionizing radiation, pelvic ultrasound is generally considered safe during pregnancy when performed for a medical purpose by trained professionals.
Types of Pelvic Sonography
There are three main types of pelvic sonography. In each one, the transducer is placed in a different spot.
- Transabdominal pelvic ultrasound: The sonographer applies gel and moves the probe across the lower abdomen. A full bladder often helps make pelvic organs easier to see.
- Transvaginal ultrasound: A covered, lubricated probe is inserted into the vagina. This approach provides closer views of the uterus and ovaries, but explicit patient consent is required.
- Transrectal ultrasound: A covered, lubricated probe is inserted into the rectum. Physicians commonly use this method to examine the prostate and surrounding tissue.
Which Organs Can Pelvic Ultrasound Examine?
Pelvic ultrasound can examine the uterus and endometrium, the tissue lining the uterus. It also evaluates the ovaries and may reveal fluid within the pelvis. Depending on the order, scans can assess the bladder or male pelvic structures, including the prostate and seminal vesicles.
A physician may order pelvic ultrasound if a patient has pain or abnormal bleeding. Images can help identify ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and other masses. Doctors also use ultrasound to investigate fertility concerns and assess early pregnancy, including its location.
What Does a Sonographer Do?
Behind every pelvic ultrasound is a sonographer who guides the patient during the exam and produces the images a physician needs. Because these scans can involve internal approaches and sensitive health concerns, the role pairs technical knowledge with a patient-centered approach. Sonographers need to build patient trust and keep patients at ease from start to finish.
As a sonographer, your job includes:
- Patient communication and privacy: Every exam requires clear communication. You’ll explain what to expect and obtain consent before any internal scan. You’ll also need to drape the patient properly and ask if they want a chaperone to help protect their dignity.
- Image optimization and standard views: Once the patient is comfortable, you’ll start scanning. You’ll adjust the depth and gain to sharpen each image, then capture the specific views and measurements each protocol requires.
- Documentation for physician interpretation: After scanning, sonographers label each image and note relevant findings. This record allows a radiologist to interpret the study and make a diagnosis.
When each stage goes smoothly, physicians receive complete, accurate studies, and patients leave feeling respected and informed.
Skills You Need
To be a great ultrasound tech, you need specific skills. Pelvic imaging requires detailed anatomy knowledge, including how organs change during pregnancy. Sonographers also need steady technique and the judgment to spot abnormal findings. You’ll also need to be compassionate because many patients feel anxious during these exams.
Begin Your Sonography Career at NPCollege
At NPCollege, our Diagnostic Medical Sonography program helps you develop both technical and patient care skills. Students practice in hands-on labs, then gain real-world experience during a clinical externship. You can earn a diploma in 23 months or an associate degree in 26 months.
Additionally, eligible students may qualify for financial aid, including federal grants or loans. As you near graduation, our career services team can help you secure an externship and prepare for interviews. If you’re ready to start your career as a pelvic sonographer, contact us today to schedule a tour of our Lakewood, CA, campus or to speak to admissions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pelvic Sonography
Do I need a full bladder for a pelvic ultrasound?
A full bladder is often recommended for transabdominal pelvic ultrasound because it can improve visualization of pelvic organs. Follow the preparation instructions provided by your healthcare team.
Is a transvaginal ultrasound painful?
Most patients describe it as a mild pressure. The transducer is thin and covered with a sheath and gel. However, you may have discomfort if the area is already tender. You can always ask the sonographer to pause or adjust at any time.
How long does a pelvic ultrasound take?
Most pelvic ultrasounds take 20 to 45 minutes. However, a transabdominal exam is often quicker. If your exam is for a complex concern, such as fertility monitoring, it may take longer. Your provider can give you a better estimate based on the type and number of exams ordered.
Can a pelvic ultrasound detect cancer?
Ultrasound can reveal masses in the pelvic organs that may need further evaluation. However, it can’t confirm whether a mass is cancerous on its own. Physicians often order additional tests, such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or biopsy, to make a diagnosis.
Do sonographers need certification to perform pelvic exams?
It depends on the state. California does not generally require a state-specific license for diagnostic medical sonographers. However, employers may require professional certification or other qualifications, depending on the position. For pelvic imaging, that often means the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) with an obstetrics and gynecology specialty.