How Does a Transvaginal Ultrasound Work and Why Would I Need One?

Ultrasound technology provides rapid, pain-free imaging of the inside of your body, and is an essential tool for obstetricians and gynecologists. Experienced OB/GYN Dr. Leonardo Longoria at Longoria OBGYN in El Paso, Texas, provides traditional ultrasounds and transvaginal ultrasounds for a variety of treatment needs.

If you need a transvaginal ultrasound, you may have questions about this procedure. Dr. Longoria can provide answers!

When you need an ultrasound

Ultrasounds are used to painlessly and non-surgically view your internal organs. This technology relies on a transducer for sound-based imaging. Your ultrasound exam involves projecting a sonogram on a screen for easy viewing by your OB/GYN provider. The test returns real-time imaging.

Dr. Longoria performs your ultrasound in a private room, while you recline comfortably on an examination table. He uses ultrasounds for multiple purposes in his practice. These include:

• Checking internal symptoms in your abdomen, such as internal bleeding or pelvic pain
• Checking on fetal development during pregnancy

Dr. Longoria may recommend an ultrasound for you if he needs to find out more about troubling symptoms, diagnose a condition, or confirm or monitor your progressing pregnancy.

Transvaginal ultrasound vs. traditional abdominal ultrasound

In some cases, instead of using an external transducer for a traditional abdominal ultrasound, Dr. Longoria may suggest a transvaginal ultrasound as part of your care. With a transvaginal ultrasound, Dr. Longoria inserts a transducer wand into your vaginal canal to get a clearer view of your internal abdomen.

Sometimes, Dr. Longoria may inject your uterus with a saline solution for a clearer image, a variant of the transvaginal ultrasound called a sonohysterogram.

Transvaginal ultrasounds can produce more detailed imaging of your pelvic organs and pelvic cavity soft tissues than a traditional abdominal ultrasound. This type of diagnostic imaging procedure works well for issues related to your uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and cervix, as well as detecting abnormal growths in your pelvic area.

With a transvaginal ultrasound exam, Dr. Longoria can detect cysts, tumors, polyps, fibroids, signs of cancer, infection, or pregnancy complications. 

Transvaginal ultrasounds also work well to learn more about potential fertility issues and to check on the correct placement of contraceptive intrauterine devices (IUDs). And, if you need surgery, transvaginal ultrasounds may be part of planning your treatment.

Comprehensive, compassionate OB/GYN care

Dr. Longoria uses the best technology and tools available to comprehensively cover your obstetrical and gynecological care needs. Transvaginal ultrasounds may be the best tool for him to use in your care.

Or, you might not be a candidate for a transvaginal ultrasound due to concerns like placental placement during pregnancy. In these types of circumstances, Dr. Longoria uses a traditional abdominal ultrasound, moving a transducer across the outside of your belly.

It’s typically not a problem to receive a transvaginal ultrasound if you’re menstruating or pregnant. The procedure only takes about half an hour and doesn’t need preparation or post-exam downtime. And, the internal transducer is designed for your comfort. Dr. Longoria provides lubricating gel to minimize discomfort during your exam.

To learn more about transvaginal ultrasounds and for comprehensive, compassionate OB/GYN care you can trust, contact Dr. Longoria today. Schedule an appointment by calling our office or request a visit online anytime.