Transvaginal ultrasound scan
A transvaginal ultrasound is a test that uses sound waves inside the vagina to look at nearby areas of the pelvis.
What is a transvaginal ultrasound scan?
An ultrasound scan uses sound waves to make up a picture of inside the womb. It can be used to find out the thickness of the womb lining. It can help diagnose womb, ovarian and fallopian tube cancer.
Having a transvaginal ultrasound scan
Before a transvaginal ultrasound scan, you are usually asked to empty your bladder (pee). Then you will either put on a gown or undress your lower half. Once you are on the couch, you will have a sheet to cover you from the waist down.
The position you are in for a transvaginal ultrasound is similar to an internal examination. You lay on your back, with your legs slightly apart. If this position is difficult for you, you may be asked to lay on your side with your knees drawn up towards your chest.
The person doing the scan will either be a specialist x-ray doctor (radiologist) or someone who specialises in ultrasound scans (sonographer). The person doing the scan will gently place a small probe with a rounded end into the vagina. The probe will have a protective cover and lubrication.
If it is not possible to do the scan through the vagina, it can be done using an ultrasound probe over the tummy (an abdominal ultrasound). Once you are lying comfortably on your back, the person doing the scan spreads gel on the skin, over the area to be scanned. Then they move the probe over the area. You may need a full bladder for an abdominal ultrasound scan to get the best picture.
After a transvaginal ultrasound scan
Both types of ultrasound scan can be slightly uncomfortable, but they should not be painful. They usually take around 15 minutes. After your scan you will be given some tissue paper to wipe away the gel. You can usually go home afterwards.
Waiting for test results
Waiting for test results can be a difficult time. It may take from a few days to a couple of weeks for the results to be ready. You may find it helpful to talk with your partner, your family or a close friend. Your specialist nurse or a support organisation can also provide support. Or you can talk to one of our cancer support specialists on 0808 808 00 00 (7 days a week, 8am to 8pm).
Related pages
Booklets and resources
About our information
This information has been written, revised and edited by Macmillan Cancer Support’s Cancer Information Development team. It has been reviewed by expert medical and health professionals and people living with cancer.
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References
Below is a sample of the sources used in our womb cancer information. If you would like more information about the sources we use, please contact us at informationproductionteam@macmillan.org.uk
Oaknin, A. et al. Endometrial cancer: ESMO Clinical Practice Guideline for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Annals of Oncology, Volume 33, Issue 9, 860 - 877
https://www.esmo.org/guidelines/guidelines-by-topic/esmo-clinical-practice-guidelines-gynaecological-cancers/endometrial-cancer (accessed January 2024).Berek JS, Matias-Guiu X, Creutzberg C, et al. FIGO staging of endometrial cancer: 2023. Int J Gynecol Obstet. 2023; 162: 383-394. doi:10.1002/ijgo.14923 (accessed January 2024).
Suspected cancer: recognition and referral. NICE guideline [NG12] Published: 23 June 2015 Last updated: 02 October 2023 Overview | Suspected cancer: recognition and referral | Guidance | NICE (accessed January 2024).
Miss Eva Myriokefalitaki
Reviewer
Consultant Gynaecological Oncology Surgeon
Date reviewed
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