The gynecological ultrasound is an imaging method, non-invasive and quite painless for the examinee. It works by sending sound waves, which are analyzed with the help of a special program on a computer, providing the image through a screen.
It can be performed either transabdominally or transvaginally.
When the woman’s sex life has commenced and there are no problems with vaginal dryness, the transvaginal ultrasound is preferred for greater clarity.
It should be performed annually in the context of a gynecological check-up, but it does not serve as a substitute for gynecological clinical testing under any circumstances. It can be performed throughout the menstrual cycle, even on the days of menstrual flow, if needed.
Through an ultrasound, the gynecologist is able to assess the composition, size and morphology of the woman’s internal reproductive organs, that is, the uterus and ovaries.
The examination of the uterus is of great importance for the diagnosis of various pathologies, for example fibroids, as well as for its anatomy (bicornate, didelphys, heart-shaped) justifying infertility problems.
In addition, the endometrium can be examined for the presence of polyps and for its thickness, which provides the gynecologist with useful information about the phase of the cycle, as well as its responsiveness to possible medications.
The fallopian tubes are only depicted in pathological conditions, such as inflammation or when there is presence of fluid (hydrosalpinx). The use of ultrasound is also very important for the examination of the ovaries.
The gynecologist is able to record their size and distinguish the presence of cysts, benign or not.
Actually, with the help of technology and DOPPLER ultrasound the physician can study the vasculature of such lesions, which has an important role in the differential diagnosis.
The ultrasound may also examine the presence and number of ovarian follicles after ovarian stimulation (for infertility reasons) or in pathological conditions, such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome).
The ultrasound enables the diagnosis of other types of pathological conditions, such as pelvic inflammation (fluid collection in the Douglas space), or even an ectopic pregnancy.
