VAGINAL ULTRASOUND
An ultrasound involves sending
sound waves to specific sites. These sound waves
are reflected off and analyzed to create a picture
that can be observed on a screen so that different
organs such as the uterus and the ovary can be imaged
and evaluated. With trans vaginal ultrasound, the
ultrasound transducer is inserted directly into the
vagina. This ultrasound allows us to examine the
uterus and ovary and identify ovarian cysts as well
as fibroids. The ultrasound is useful in patients
undergoing IVF to monitor the size and number of
developing follicles.
The ultrasound transducer is gently
introduced into the vagina.
The tip of the transducer is covered
with a protective cover that had been lubricated
with gel and then 3 or 4 inches of the transducer
end is inserted into the vagina. The image allows
us to have an excellent view of the uterus and the
ovaries.
Sonohysterogram
The sonohysterogram is an evaluation of the inner
surface of the uterus. A saline solution is injected
into the uterus through a thin catheter and an ultrasound
is done using a vaginal probe. We can identify fibroids
and polyps. A polyp is a small growth or fold on
the inner lining of the uterus. A fibroid or myoma
is a benign tumor that is found in the wall of the
uterus or sometimes on the inner cavity. The sonohysterogram
allows us to distinguish whether a fibroid is actually
in the cavity of the uterus which is a problem for
fertility or is rather in the wall of the uterus
or the outer surface which are often less problematic.
The sonohysterogram is particularly useful in patients
with heavy menstrual bleeding or patients with repeated
miscarriage.
The sonohysterogram is usually done in the week
after your period has ended because it is easier
then to study the cavity of the uterus.
See Also: Hormonal
Evaluation and Semen Analysis Testing
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