Private Pelvic Ultrasound Scan

What is a pelvic ultrasound?

Pelvic ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create live pictures of the pelvic organs. For women and people assigned female at birth, this typically includes the uterus (womb), endometrium (lining), ovaries, fallopian tube region (adnexa), cervix, and the surrounding spaces. The bladder is also often assessed because it sits directly in front of the uterus and helps provide an acoustic window for imaging.

There are two main approaches:

• Transabdominal pelvic ultrasound (TA): the probe moves on the outside of the lower abdomen. A comfortably full bladder helps lift the bowel and improves visibility.
• Transvaginal ultrasound (TV or TVS): a slim, sterile probe is placed just inside the vagina to obtain high-resolution images of the uterus and ovaries. A full bladder is not required for TVS.

Both methods are widely used; your sonographer may perform one or both during the same appointment for the most complete assessment.

Transabdominal vs transvaginal: which do I need?

Is transvaginal ultrasound safe? Yes. TVS uses the same sound-wave technology as abdominal scans—no radiation—and is considered safe, including in early pregnancy. You remain in control at all times and can stop the scan whenever you wish.

What can a pelvic ultrasound show?

• Uterus & cervix: size, shape, position (anteverted/retroverted), and the presence of fibroids (location such as intramural, submucosal, subserosal).
• Endometrium (lining): thickness, uniformity, polyps, fluid. Thickness varies with the menstrual cycle; interpretation is made in context (premenopause vs postmenopause, HRT use, cycle timing).
• Ovaries: size/volume, follicle count, simple or complex ovarian cysts, suspected endometriomas, signs suggestive (but not diagnostic) of PCOS.
• Adnexa: masses near the tubes/ovaries, tubo-ovarian complex, appearances that might suggest inflammation.
• Pelvic free fluid: small amounts can be normal around ovulation; larger volumes may need correlation.
• Bladder: wall appearance, residual urine if assessed.

In pregnancy, ultrasound can identify intrauterine pregnancy structures (gestational sac, yolk sac, embryo, heartbeat) and can help assess for ectopic pregnancy in the appropriate clinical context. Dedicated obstetric protocols are used for pregnancy scans.

Who should consider a private pelvic ultrasound?

• Pelvic pain, cramping, or painful periods (dysmenorrhoea).
• Irregular, heavy, or post-menopausal bleeding.
• Bloating, pelvic pressure, fullness, or urinary frequency.
• Known/suspected fibroids, cysts, or uterine polyps.
• Fertility assessment, cycle mapping, follicle tracking.
• PCOS suspicion (acne, cycle irregularity, hirsutism, metabolic features).
• IUD/device check (position verification).
• Early pregnancy concerns (pain/bleeding); please alert us when booking so we use the right protocol.
• Post-menopause screening or evaluation of symptoms while on or off HRT.

If you’re unsure which approach is best, we’ll advise whether transabdominal, transvaginal, or a combined scan will answer your clinical question most effectively.

Fertility, PCOS & follicle tracking

Pelvic ultrasound is central to fertility work-ups. A baseline fertility scan typically evaluates uterine anatomy, measures endometrial thickness, and assesses each ovary’s antral follicle count (AFC). Follicle tracking follows the growth of the dominant follicle towards ovulation and can be scheduled around the expected mid-cycle window (often cycle days 10–14 for 28-day cycles; we can tailor timing for longer/shorter cycles).

For PCOS, ultrasound may show increased ovarian volume and a higher count of small follicles. However, PCOS is a clinical diagnosis using recognised criteria (symptoms, hormones, and ultrasound). A “polycystic” appearance alone is not enough—our reports clearly explain when features are suggestive and when further tests are indicated.

Endometriosis & fibroids

Fibroids are common, benign muscular growths in the uterus. Ultrasound can map their size, number, and location, which helps explain symptoms (heavy periods, pressure) and informs treatment options. For endometriosis, ultrasound can detect ovarian endometriomas and, with specialist techniques, may identify some deep infiltrating disease; however, small peritoneal deposits may not be visible. If your symptoms strongly suggest endometriosis, we may recommend correlation with gynaecological assessment and, sometimes, MRI.

How to prepare & what to expect

1. Booking: choose your location and time online. You don’t need a GP referral to book privately.
2. Bladder prep: for transabdominal scans, arrive with a comfortably full bladder (e.g., drink 2–3 glasses of water about 45–60 minutes before). For transvaginal scans, please empty your bladder on arrival.
3. Consent & chaperone: your sonographer explains the process. A chaperone is available on request. You are in control and can pause/stop at any time.
4. Scanning: gel on the lower abdomen for transabdominal views; a small covered transducer, with lubricant, for transvaginal views. The internal portion usually lasts only a few minutes.
5. Comfort: you shouldn’t feel pain. You may feel mild pressure. Tell us immediately if anything is uncomfortable.
6. Privacy: you’ll undress from the waist down for TVS; we provide gowns and drapes to maintain your dignity.

Medication & eating: keep taking regular medicines unless your clinician has advised otherwise. You can eat normally unless we’ve given you specific instructions.

Can I have a pelvic ultrasound on my period?

Yes. Bleeding does not prevent scanning. Many fertility and PCOS assessments are deliberately scheduled in the early follicular phase (cycle days 2–5). If you prefer to avoid an internal scan during a heavy flow, we can perform transabdominal only or rebook when you’re more comfortable.

Understanding your results

You will receive a structured report that typically includes:

• Uterus: dimensions, orientation, myometrium appearance, fibroid map if present.
• Endometrium: thickness and pattern, with comments tailored to premenopausal vs postmenopausal status and cycle timing.
• Ovaries: size/volume, AFC, cysts (simple/complex), endometrioma features if suspected.
• Adnexa & pelvis: free fluid, masses, or other notable findings.
• Impression & recommendations: plain-English summary with next-step options (e.g., gynaecology review, follow-up scan, blood tests).

Note: Ultrasound is excellent for many gynaecological conditions but is not a universal test. Some pathologies require correlation with bloods, MRI, hysteroscopy, or specialist review.

“Signs of a bad pelvic ultrasound” (or when images are limited)

We prefer the term “sub-optimal” rather than “bad”. Reasons a scan may be limited include:

• Bladder not full for transabdominal imaging.
• Bowel gas obscuring the view.
• Deeply positioned ovaries behind bowel or high in the pelvis.
• Body habitus or scarring, which can attenuate the sound beam.
• Movement or discomfort limiting probe positioning.

We’ll explain any limitation and offer practical solutions (e.g., bladder refilling, adding a transvaginal view, or arranging a targeted follow-up). If ultrasound cannot fully answer the clinical question, we’ll advise alternatives such as MRI or gynaecology review.

Private pelvic ultrasound cost in London & the UK

Prices vary by location and whether your scan includes transvaginal imaging, Doppler, follicle tracking, or a longer consultation. As a guide, a private pelvic ultrasound in London commonly ranges from £120–£250. Combined fertility packages or advanced endometriosis assessments may cost more. We publish clear, fixed fees with no hidden charges—see prices or contact us for an exact quote.

Popular women’s scan packages

NHS vs private: what’s the difference?

• Speed: private clinics offer same-day/next-day imaging with on-the-spot reporting.
• Access: you can self-refer for a pelvic ultrasound without waiting for a GP referral.
• Flexibility: choose female sonographers, evening/weekend appointments, and combined packages.
• Continuity: we provide a shareable report for your GP, NHS clinic, or private consultant.

Pelvic ultrasound – frequently asked questions

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