Pelvic ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to form pictures of your organs. It can help assess pain or other symptoms within your pelvis (area between your hip bones). And in pregnant women, it is used to check the health of the fetus (unborn baby).

Before Your Test

• Drink 32 ounces of water or other clear fluid starting 1 hour before your test. Make sure your bladder is full for the test. Do not empty your bladder until the sonographer tells you to.

• The test may take 30–45 minutes.

• Arrive 15 minutes before the exam.

During Your Test

• You will lie on your back with your abdomen exposed.

• A nongreasy gel will be applied to the skin.

• The sonographer will move a hand-held transducer (probe) across your pelvis.

The test may include a second part. You can empty your bladder before this part of the test.

• You will lie on your back with your knees raised.

• A probe covered with nongreasy gel is placed inside your vagina. Or, you may be asked to insert the probe yourself as you would a tampon. The probe should not be painful.

After Your Exam

• Your doctor will discuss the test results with you during a follow-up visit or over the phone.

• Your next appointment is: ____________________