Pelvic ultrasound, transabdominal (suprapubic) and transvaginal, with Doppler
Pelvic ultrasound in Casablanca
A pelvic ultrasound uses ultrasound, without X-rays, to examine the organs of the lower pelvis: in women, the uterus, the ovaries and the bladder. It is most often done in two stages: first through the abdomen, with a full bladder, then transvaginally with a thin probe, which gives more precise images. Doppler, added if needed, studies blood flow in the organs. It is often the first exam requested by the gynecologist.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
A pelvic ultrasound usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, including both the abdominal and transvaginal approaches.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
GE & Hitachi
Contact the center
This exam is booked by phone or WhatsApp.
When is this exam needed?
- Lower abdominal pain, sudden or recurrent.
- Heavy, irregular or painful periods, bleeding between periods or after menopause.
- Looking for or monitoring a uterine fibroid, an ovarian cyst or a polyp.
- Infertility workup and ovulation monitoring, on specific days of the cycle.
- Checking the position of an IUD (intrauterine device).
- Suspected endometriosis, before an MRI if needed.
How the exam is done
For the abdominal approach, you lie on your back with your lower abdomen uncovered. The doctor applies a cold gel and moves the probe above the pubic bone: the full bladder pushes the bowel aside and acts as a window to see the uterus and ovaries.
You then go and empty your bladder. The transvaginal approach is done only with your consent: you lie down with your legs bent, and a thin probe, covered with a single-use protective cover and gel, is gently inserted into the vagina. It may be a little uncomfortable but is usually not painful. For a young woman who is a virgin, only the abdominal approach is used. You get dressed and resume your activities right afterwards.
Preparation
- Depending on the instructions given when you book, drink about 500 ml of water in the hour before the exam and do not empty your bladder beforehand.
- Note the date of the first day of your last period: some indications are scheduled at a specific time in the cycle.
- If your period starts on the scheduled day, let us know: depending on the indication, the exam is kept or rescheduled.
- Wear clothing that is easy to remove from the waist down.
Fasting
No fasting: only a full bladder matters for the first part of the exam. If a gallbladder ultrasound is planned on the same day, come after fasting for 4 hours.
Contrast injection
No contrast agent is injected. Doppler, which studies blood flow, is done with the same probe, with no needle.
Contraindications and precautions
- No contraindication related to ultrasound: the exam can be repeated without risk.
- Transvaginal approach: only with your consent, and never for a young woman who is a virgin; the abdominal approach is then used.
- Latex allergy: tell us; a suitable probe cover is used.
Documents to bring
- Prescription from the gynecologist or doctor
- Previous ultrasounds, MRIs or hormone tests
- Date of your last period, and your follow-up booklet if you have one
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need a full bladder?
Through the abdomen, ultrasound waves pass poorly through the bowel, which is filled with air. A full bladder pushes it aside and lets the ultrasound reach the uterus and ovaries. If the transvaginal approach is done next, you empty your bladder just before.
Is the transvaginal approach mandatory?
No. It gives more precise images of the uterus and ovaries, which is why the doctor often offers it. It is done only with your consent. If you decline, or for a young woman who is a virgin, the exam is done through the abdomen, which is enough in many situations.
When in my cycle should I have the exam?
For most indications, the exam can be done at any time. Some questions, such as looking for a polyp or monitoring ovulation, require a specific day of the cycle, set by your doctor. Mention it when you book.
Can an ultrasound show endometriosis?
It can show ovarian cysts related to endometriosis and some deep lesions, depending on where they are. A normal ultrasound does not rule out the disease: the gynecologist may then request a pelvic MRI to complete the assessment.