What a Pelvic Ultrasound Reveals About Your Health

When something feels off in your body, it's natural to want answers. If you're experiencing pelvic pain, irregular periods, or trouble getting pregnant, Dr. Patterson may recommend a pelvic ultrasound. This test is simple, noninvasive, and surprisingly informative.

Dr. Patterson’s office specializes in doing gynecology and early OB ultrasounds and also the NT scan which is a special scan that rules out spinal problems in your baby done at 12-14 weeks. Dr. Patterson feels that GYN and OB ultrasounds done at his office are better quality than outside ultrasound facilities, and you will know your results right away.

At his office in Coral Springs, Florida, board-certified OB/GYN Alan B. Patterson, MD, provides personalized care and will ensure you have the information you need.

How a pelvic ultrasound works

A pelvic ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the organs in your lower abdomen. It's a safe procedure and doesn't involve radiation. There are two main types: abdominal and transvaginal.

In an abdominal ultrasound, the technician applies gel to your lower belly and moves a small device called a transducer across your skin. This captures images of your uterus, ovaries, bladder, and surrounding structures. 

A transvaginal ultrasound, on the other hand, uses a slim, wand-like probe inserted gently into the vagina. This method provides in some instances a more precise and detailed view of the reproductive organs.

It is best to do both the transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound at the same visit, as doing both gives the best view of everything. The scan itself typically takes less than 30 minutes, and you can resume your day immediately afterward. If someone has never had intercourse, then only a transabdominal ultrasound is done.

What we may look for

Pelvic ultrasounds can reveal a wide range of conditions, especially when symptoms alone don’t offer enough information. If you’ve been dealing with pelvic pain, heavy periods, unexplained bleeding, or fertility concerns, this scan gives Dr. Patterson a clearer look at potential causes.

The ultrasound can identify uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths in the uterus. It can also reveal ovarian cysts, which often develop during the menstrual cycle. In some cases, the scan shows polycystic ovaries, a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Also the scan can reveal polyps inside the uterus.

Dr. Patterson may also examine the thickness of the uterine lining or check for fluid in the pelvis. If you’re early in a pregnancy, the scan can confirm that everything is developing as expected.

In addition to diagnosing new concerns, Dr. Patterson may use the ultrasound to monitor known conditions or confirm the placement of an intrauterine device (IUD).

What the results can tell you

Once the scan is complete, Dr. Patterson will review the images and explain the findings. In many cases, the results offer peace of mind. You might find out that a small cyst is harmless and doesn't require treatment. Other times, the ultrasound can help confirm a diagnosis, such as fibroids that may be causing heavy bleeding or discomfort.

In some cases, the scan helps rule out serious conditions. That can be just as important. Knowing what isn’t causing your symptoms helps narrow the possibilities and shape the next steps in your care plan.

If anything unusual appears in the results, Dr. Patterson may recommend further testing or refer you to another specialist for additional evaluation. The goal is always to gain the most precise understanding of your health, so you can make informed decisions moving forward.

You deserve answers

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your body isn’t behaving the way it usually does. A pelvic ultrasound provides a closer look and helps Dr. Patterson determine what’s really happening. It turns uncertainty into clarity and supports a personalized care plan tailored to your needs.

If Dr. Patterson suggests a pelvic ultrasound, see it as a helpful step toward getting answers, understanding your body, and taking control of your health. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today if you have any questions.