Transabdominal vs Transvaginal Pelvic Scans: What’s the Difference?
You may be asking what distinguishes a transvaginal scan from a transabdominal scan if your doctor has recommended a pelvic ultrasound. Although they differ in technique and level of information provided, both are used to check the pelvic region’s organs. So that you are prepared, let’s go over the suggested scan intervals and what to anticipate from each one.
What Is a Pelvic Ultrasound?
A pelvic ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive test that uses sound waves to take pictures of the inside of your pelvis. It’s often done to evaluate the health of organs such as the following: Uterus, Ovaries, Fallopian tubes, Cervix (in women), Bladder, Prostate (in men) These are very common scans for those with symptoms such as pelvic pain, irregular bleeding, or infertility. They are helpful in monitoring conditions such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, or a pregnancy.
What Is a Transabdominal Pelvic Scan?
A transabdominal pelvic scan is an ultrasound conducted outside the body through the abdomen.
How It’s Done
Lie down on your back with the gel applied on the low abdomen. This, allows easy movement of the probe or transducer around, allowing clear images.
The Technician moves the transducer probe all around on your abdomen capturing your organ details in the pelvis region.
When It’s Used
General Overview: Transabdominal scans provide a wide overview of the pelvic region and are very useful in the detection of larger pathologies such as fibroids or masses.
Pregnancy Monitoring: This is the preferred modality for monitoring the uterus and fetus during pregnancy.
Bladder Issues: It is also used to visualize the bladder and structures around it.
Preparation
For this type of scan, you may need to drink water beforehand to fill your bladder. A full bladder acts as a “window,” pushing other organs aside so the pelvic area is easier to see.
What Is a Transvaginal Pelvic Scan?
A transvaginal pelvic scan is carried out with the use of a probe that is inserted gently into the vagina. This will bring the ultrasound closer to the organs in the pelvis and thus yield clearer, more detailed pictures.
How It’s Done
You will be positioned lying on a table, after which the technician will insert a slender, lubricated probe into your vaginal canal.
The probe takes pictures from inside and gives a better, more focused view of the uterus, ovaries, and other structures.
When It’s Recommended
Detailed Imaging: This scan is good for the detection of small pathologies, such as ovarian cysts or polyps.
Early Pregnancy: This modality is used in the first trimester of pregnancy to confirm the presence of an intrauterine pregnancy or to evaluate for possible ectopic pregnancy.
Fertility Treatment: Transvaginal ultrasound is usually performed to measure the thickness of the uterine lining and monitor ovarian follicles during fertility procedures.
Comfort Level
While an internal scan might sound quite daunting, it is usually non-painful. Some might experience a little pressure, though this process is fast, and the probe is designed to maximize comfort.
Comparing Transabdominal and Transvaginal Scans
| Feature | Transabdominal Scan | Transvaginal Scan |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure | External, done on the abdomen. | Internal, done with a vaginal probe. |
| Image Detail | Broad view of the pelvis. | Close-up, detailed view of pelvic organs. |
| Preparation | Requires a full bladder. | No bladder preparation needed. |
| Best For | Large masses, general pregnancy monitoring. | Small abnormalities, early pregnancy checks. |
| Comfort Level | Completely external and non-invasive. | Minimally invasive, with mild discomfort possible. |
When Do Doctors Use Each Type?
Transabdominal Scans
– When a broad overview of the pelvic area is required.
– To study pregnancy, especially in more advanced stages.
– To assess large abnormalities such as fibroids.
Transvaginal Scans
– When detailed imaging of areas is required, such as the detection of cysts or endometriosis.
– To confirm early pregnancy or diagnose conditions such as ectopic pregnancy.
– To conduct fertility assessments or track treatment progress.
Do You Need Both Scans?
Sometimes, both scans may be required. An example would be:
A transabdominal scan can outline a large mass, while the transvaginal scan gives the detail of location and size.
A transabdominal scan provides a general view during early pregnancy, but confirmation of details, such as the gestational sac, is provided through a transvaginal scan.
Doctors use these methods together to make sure nothing is missed and to give a more complete picture of your pelvic health.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are these tests safe?
Indeed, both transabdominal and transvaginal scans are very safe and radiation is not used in either. - Does a transvaginal scan hurt?
Though some patients may experience some pressure during the operation, it is normally not uncomfortable. - Why does a transabdominal scan call for a full bladder?
A full bladder enables the intestines to be lifted off their path, therefore improving the pelvic organ view. - Are pelvic ultrasounds something guys can have?
Men’s bladder, prostate, or other components may indeed be evaluated by transabdominal pelvic imaging. - Each scan takes what length of time?
Usually, both kinds take fifteen to thirty minutes.
Pelvic scanning, both transabdominal and transvaginal, is a useful modality for diagnosing and monitoring various pathologies of the pelvis. While transabdominal scans give an overall wider view, the transvaginal scan is more specific in detail. Your doctor will suggest one or both of the options according to your symptoms and case history.
Knowing what to expect will have the effect of making you even more comfortable and confident when going through the process. For any concerns, discuss them with your healthcare professional since they are there for that purpose.
