Pelvic Ultrasound Scan

Introduction

Your consultant or GP has advised that you have an ultrasound scan to help find the cause of your symptoms.

This leaflet tells you about what an ultrasound scan is and what to expect. Your appointment letter will tell you where to go for your scan.

What is an ultrasound scan?

An ultrasound scan is a painless examination, using sound waves to make pictures of the inside of your body.

Is ultrasound safe?

Ultrasound is safe and no radiation (x-rays) is used.¹

How should I prepare for my ultrasound scan?

The scan is best performed when you have a full bladder, as this lifts your uterus (womb) out of your pelvis, making it easier to see. To fill your bladder, you must drink at least 1 pint (568ml) of fluid (such as still water or fruit juice) 1 hour before your appointment time. Do not go to the toilet again until after your scan.

You must remove any jewellery (body piercings) from your abdomen (tummy) before your scan.

Who will carry out my ultrasound scan?

Your scan will be carried out by a Doctor or an Ultrasonographer (someone who specialises in ultrasound scanning).

How will my ultrasound scan be carried out?

You will be asked to lie on a trolley and uncover your abdomen. Gel will be spread onto your skin. The gel is needed for the scan as it allows the ultrasound probe to move smoothly over your skin.

The gel may wet your clothes but it will not stain them. You might prefer to wear older, casual clothes or you can ask the Ultrasonographer for a hospital gown.

The lights in the examination room will be dimmed and the ultrasonographer will move the probe over your skin while looking at the pictures on a monitor. He or she will be concentrating on the scan and so may not talk to you. Do not be worried by this.

Sometimes, a vaginal ultrasound may be carried out if a more detailed scan is needed. For this scan, you will need to empty your bladder.

A vaginal scan involves putting an ultrasound probe inside your vagina, where it is much closer to your womb. This type of scan may be uncomfortable, but should not hurt. This scan can be carried out even if you are having your period.

Total privacy is guaranteed and there will always be a chaperone present in the room.

How long will my ultrasound scan take?

Your scan will take between 10 to 30 minutes.

When will I be told the result of my scan?

The result of your scan will be sent to your consultant or GP within 7 to 10 days of your scan.

Contact numbers

University Hospital of North Tees X-ray Department

Telephone: 01642 383193

Opening hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm (Monday to Friday)

University Hospital of Hartlepool X-ray Department

Telephone: 01429 522938

Opening hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm (Monday to Friday)

Peterlee Community Hospital X-ray Department

Telephone: 01429 522830

Opening hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm (Monday to Friday)

Further information is available from:

NHS Choices

Telephone: 111 (when it is less urgent than 999).

Calls to this number are free from landlines and mobile phones or via the website.

References

Ter Harr, G (2012) The safe Use of Ultrasound in Medical Diagnosis, 3rd Edition. BIR The British Institute of Radiology, pages 46-104.

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

Patient Experience Team (PET)

We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Patient Experience Team is here to try to resolve your concerns as quickly as possible. The office is based on the ground floor at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. If you would like to contact or request a copy of our PET leaflet, please contact:

Telephone: 01642 624719

Freephone: 0800 092 0084

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm

Email: [email protected]

Out of hours

Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.

Telephone: 01642 617617

Data protection and use of patient information

The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.

Telephone: 01642 383551

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet feedback

This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospital of North Tees, TS19 8PE or:

Email: [email protected]