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What Does a Transvaginal Ultrasound Show?

A transvaginal ultrasound is done as part of a pelvic ultrasound examination. A special camera, called a transducer, is inserted into the vaginal canal to obtain images of the female pelvic organs. Transvaginal ultrasounds produce different images from abdominal ultrasounds.

  1. Detailed Images

    • A transvaginal ultrasound uses higher frequency ultrasound waves than an abdominal ultrasound. This produces more detailed images.

    Clearer Images

    • Bowel gas and fat contribute to grainy images with an abdominal ultrasound. These are much less of an issue with a transvaginal ultrasound, and images are less likely to be grainy.

    Endometrium

    • The endometrium is the inner of the lining uterus, which cannot be seen well using an abdominal ultrasound. A transvaginal ultrasound provides a detailed view of the endometrium and any contents that may be present.

    Uterus

    • While the uterus can be seen with an abdominal ultrasound, it is seen with much greater detail using a transvaginal ultrasound. Clearly delineated tumors and other structures may be more clearly seen using a transvaginal ultrasound.

    Ovarian Follicles

    • The ovaries are much less likely to be seen with an abdominal ultrasound. A transvaginal ultrasound shows the ovaries more often, and the ovarian follicles can be seen and examined as well.

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