If you are experiencing unusual symptoms with your female parts or pain that you cannot explain, your gynecologist might recommend having an ultrasound completed to look for any potential problems. This is a common type of test used to locate problems with the female organs, and it can be very enlightening. If your gynecologist has recommended doing this, here are several things you should know.
There Are Two Different Types Used for Gynecology Purposes
Ultrasounds are typically completed as outpatient procedures, and you may have to go to a hospital to have this done. You will not need any anesthesia for this procedure, but it may be slightly uncomfortable, and you might need to have two different types of ultrasounds done while you are there.
The first type is similar to the type used during pregnancy. This type is done outside of your body with a probe. The technician will apply lubricant to the probe and will move it over your abdomen and stomach. To have this done, the technician may recommend coming to your appointment with a full bladder. Having a full bladder helps the technician see clearer images of your internal organs. While the procedure itself does not hurt, having to hold your bladder for a very long time can be extremely uncomfortable.
The other type used for gynecological purposes is an internal type of ultrasound. This type involves the technician placing the ultrasound probe inside your vagina. The technician will also use lubricant for this type of ultrasound too, and it may be slightly uncomfortable; however, you will not need a full bladder for this type of ultrasound. The probe used during an internal ultrasound can make out clearer images if the bladder is not full simply because there is more space to work with.
The Things an Ultrasound Can Reveal
The reason gynecologists recommend ultrasounds for female issues is because they can be used to take a very close look at the internal organs in a woman's body. These tests offer clear images of the organs, and they can locate any irregularities or unusual growths.
As the technician completes the procedure, he or she will locate and examine your ovaries, uterus, cervix, and fallopian tubes. As this is done, the technician will measure these organs and look closely at their placement. He or she will also look for things such as fluid that doesn't belong there and unusual growths.
If the technician notices unusual growths or pouches of fluid, he or she might take a biopsy of these areas. A biopsy involves removing a small portion of the tissue in that area, and it is done to test the tissue. Whenever there is suspicious growth or tissue, there is a chance they might be cancerous. By testing the tissue, you will be able to find out if it is cancerous or not.
Other Things That Ultrasounds Can Reveal
If you are experiencing pain in your abdomen, your gynecologist may believe it is related to your female organs, but there is also a chance it could be due to a digestive issue. If this is the case, the technician may also look at other organs in your body, such as your gallbladder. A gallbladder that contains stones may be causing the problems you are experiencing.
In addition, the technician may also examine your spleen, pancreas, and kidneys during your ultrasound. By examining all of these organs, your doctor will have an easier time determining what is causing the symptoms you are having.
Ultrasounds are very routine procedures and are not terribly difficult to go through. They can be very beneficial for locating female and digestive problems. If your gynecologist has recommended getting an ultrasound, you should go through with it. To learn more about this procedure, contact a facility that offers ultrasounds in your area, such as EVDI Medical Imaging.
