# How Often Should I Do a Pelvic Ultrasound?

A pelvic ultrasound may be used to diagnose and treat many female conditions, including endometriosis, cervical cancer, and infertility.

Your gynecologist may recommend you take this imaging test if you are having symptoms that are affecting your female organs.

Let’s have a closer look at what is [pelvic ultrasound](https://brooklyngynplace.com/pelvic-sonogram-obgyn-physicians-downtown-brooklyn-nyc/), why it is performed, and how often you need to take this test.

**What is a female pelvic ultrasound?**
A female pelvic ultrasound is a gynecological scan used to check the uterus, cervix, endometrium, ovaries, and adnexa. If a patient reports experiencing pain in the right iliac fossa, the appendix will be examined. In some circumstances, a big tumor or fibroid can compress the ureter and induce hydronephrosis, so the kidneys must also be evaluated.

**What is the optimal time to perform a female pelvic ultrasound?**
The best time to perform a gynecological ultrasound is in the early phases of the cycle, between days 5 and 7, because this timeframe produces more accurate results in viewing the endometrium and probable [ovarian cysts](https://www.healthline.com/health/ovarian-cysts). If a patient complains of acute pain or has considerable abdominal swelling, an ultrasound should be performed right away.

**Transabdominal vs transvaginal female pelvic ultrasound?**
Many pelvic ultrasounds are done using a combination of transabdominal and transvaginal modalities. To assess the adnexa, the patient is first examined transabdominal while having a full bladder. This method provides a physical review of the patient's reproductive organs and is usually sufficient when there is no disease. However, some internal organs may be difficult to check thoroughly using transabdominal procedures, in which case a transvaginal approach can be employed. Most importantly, combining both methods may reduce the likelihood of missing an adnexal mass or cyst placed high inside the pelvis, which would otherwise go undetected if only a transvaginal was performed.

**Why is a pelvic ultrasound performed?**
At your gynecological check-up, your [gynecologist](https://www.thewomenschoice.com/brooklyn-gynecologists/) may perform a pelvic ultrasound to:
- Conduct a biopsy
- Detect or insert an IUD
- Conduct and monitor fertility treatments
- Evaluate an [endometrial condition](https://www.verywellfamily.com/understanding-the-endometrium-1960066)
- Evaluate growths inside the pelvis
- Diagnose an ectopic pregnancy
- Monitor and treat pelvic inflammatory disease
- Find the cause of bleeding after menopause

**Why is the pelvic ultrasound performed during pregnancy?**
A pelvic ultrasound during pregnancy may be used to:
- Examine blood flow
- Measure the length of the cervix
- Look for signs of fetal problems
- Confirm the location of the placenta
- Verify the number of babies
- Observe the baby’s activity levels
- Check the amount of amniotic fluid
- Examine the anatomy of the pelvis
- Diagnose an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage
- Determine the position of the fetus
- Perform certain prenatal tests

Ultrasound is also popular among parents who want to find out their baby's gender before birth. Your doctor can inform you how frequently you will require a pelvic ultrasound while pregnant.

**Who is a candidate for the pelvic ultrasound?**
A pelvic ultrasound can be performed on any female. However, doctors do not normally recommend it for people who have significant obesity, intestinal gas, or an empty bladder. Your doctor may advise you to consume roughly 24 ounces of water an hour before the test. This allows your doctor to observe your pelvic organs and tissues more clearly.

**What is the optimal time to perform a female pelvic ultrasound?**
The best time to perform a gynecological ultrasound is in the early phases of the cycle, between days 5 and 7, because this timeframe produces more accurate results in viewing the endometrium and probable ovarian cysts. If a patient complains of acute pain or has considerable abdominal swelling, an ultrasound should be performed right away.

**How often should a pelvic ultrasound be done?**
Regular checks can help you avoid potential problems and detect the disease early. Gynecologists recommend a routine pelvic ultrasound checkup at least every year.