Gynecological and obstetric ultrasound

Gynecological and obstetric ultrasound is a diagnostic test used in the field of Gynecology that consists of the visualization of female reproductive system (uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries) using an ultrasound machine.

• We talk about gynecological ultrasound when ultrasound is performed for the study of female reproductive organs.
• We talk about obstetric ultrasound when ultrasound is performed to monitor pregnancy.

It can be done in two ways:

• When the ultrasound is performed by moving the ultrasound machine along the abdominal wall, we speak of gynecological or obstetric ultrasound. abdominal route
• When the ultrasound is performed by introducing the ultrasound machine through the vagina, we speak of gynecological or obstetric ultrasound. transvaginal approach

What is the study done for?

The ultrasound study is a simple and safe test, widely known and used in the field of Gynecology since it provides very valuable information for the doctor on the state of the female reproductive organs. It allows the diagnosis and monitoring of both physiological processes such as; as pathological as the presence of infections, cysts, tumors, etc. located in the female reproductive organs. It is used in the taking of biopsies or the practice of since it allows to visualize the exact area on which these techniques should be performed.

How is gynecological and obstetric ultrasound performed?

The ultrasound study is performed in the ultrasound room or in the gynecologist's office at the medical center or hospital. The patient should strip the anatomical area under study; in some cases you will be provided with a gown to cover yourself. It is not necessary to remove jewelry or metal objects as they do not interfere with ultrasound waves.

On abdominal ultrasound the patient will remain lying down on a stretcher during the study. The doctor will apply a conductive gel on the area to be studied and the ultrasound machine will move over it, indicating to the patient at all times the position to adopt during the study. Once finished, the studied area will be cleaned with a disposable wipe. In transvaginal ultrasound, the ultrasound covered with a latex insulation it is inserted through the vagina into the uterus.

The duration of the examination will depend on the findings found during it, and may vary from 15 to 20 minutes.

What does it feel like to study for you?

• Ultrasound is painless for the patient.
• You may feel local cold when applying the conductive gel.
• In the transvaginal ultrasound, the patient may feel minor discomfort due to the slight pressure exerted by the ultrasound scanner during its placement.

Preparation for the study.

The ultrasound study no preparation required prior to the patient except for fluid intake until the bladder is filled with urine for a better visualization in the abdominal ultrasound. Also, ultrasound no risks because it uses ultrasound waves that are harmless to the patient (and the fetus) and has no contraindications. On the other hand, transvaginal ultrasound can be perform perfectly even with the rule.

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Dra. Cristina Muñoz Gil Family and Community Medicine Specialist