GYNECOLOGICAL ULTRASOUND (U/S)
Gynecological ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging method, painless for the woman. It works by sending sound waves and with the help of a special computer program they are analyzed giving the image through a screen.
It is a safe method for the patient without fear of exposure to radiation.
The gynecological ultrasound can be done either from the abdomen or transvaginally.
If the woman has started having sex or does not have problems with vaginal dryness (at advanced ages), transvaginal ultrasound is preferred due to greater clarity.
Transvaginal ultrasound should be performed with an empty bladder.
It must be done at least once a year as part of the annual gynecological check-up, but in no case can it replace a gynecological examination.
It can be performed on any day of the cycle, even on period days if deemed necessary.
With the gynecological ultrasound, the gynecologist is able to check the size, composition and morphology of the internal genital organs of the woman, i.e. the uterus and the ovaries.
The control of the uterus is very important for the presence of various pathologies such as fibroids and adenomyosis, but also for its anatomy (double, didelphous, cardiac), justifying infertility problems.
In addition, the endometrium can be checked for the presence of polyps, but also for its thickness, which gives the gynecologist useful information about the phase of the cycle as well as its response to possible medication treatments.
The fallopian tubes are visualized only in pathological conditions such as inflammation or the presence of fluid (hydrosalpinx). Very important is the use of ultrasound to check the ovaries.
The gynecologist is able to record their volume and distinguish the presence of cysts, benign or non-benign formations.
In fact, with the help of technology and the DOPPLER, the doctor can study the vasculature of such types of formations, playing an important role in the differential diagnosis.
It can also see the presence and number of follicles after ovarian stimulation (for infertility reasons) or in pathological conditions such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome).
Ultrasound enables the diagnosis of other types of pathological conditions such as pelvic inflammation (with the presence of free fluid collection in the Douglas area) and any ectopic pregnancy.
Ioannis Kalogirou OBG
Athanasios Papanikolaou OBG
