Pelvic ultrasound scan:

This exam uses sound waves that are not caught by the human ear. These are the ultra-sounds. They do not produce radiation, therefore they do not present any health hazard. They are used to observe the internal organs of the pelvis (uterus, ovaries and tubes, as well as the arteries and veins in this region) and also to follow the development of any pregnancy.
The exams are performed by a doctor specialized in the interpretation of the images.
There are two techniques for observing the organs of the pelvis: the suprapubic technique ( where the transductor is placed over the skin of the lower abdomen) and the transvaginal or endovaginal (where the transductor is placed inside the vagina).

Preparation of the patient

For the suprapubic technique, you should drink around 4 to 6 glasses of water 1 hour before the exam, because the full bladder dislocates the intestines, easing the viewing of this area by the ultrasound waves, and so rendering a good exam. For the transvaginal technique, depending on the patient´s history, the doctor may or not reccomend any preparation. This technique cannot be used in virgin patients (who have not had any sexual relations yet).

How is the procedure?

For the transvaginal exam, you lie on a special stretcher and bend your knees for the doctor to introduce the transductor in your vagina.
For the suprapubic exam, the doctor places a gel on your abdomen to aid the sliding of the transductor. During the exam, you may feel a certain discomfort due to the full bladder, which is natural to obtain good images.
When you finish the exam, you will be able to urinate..
The exam takes in between 20 minutes and 1 hour and there is no pain..

Ultrasound scan of the abdomen:

This exam uses the ultrasound scan to obtain images of the abdomen, such as the liver, gall bladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen and all the other organs which are inside the abdomen.

Preparation of the patient:

The preparation may start on the evening before the exam and needs a special diet. A laxative or another medicament to help to clean the intestines and reduce the gases may be recommended.
You must fast until the exam has been made.
Arrive at the place of the exam 1/2 hour before.
The doctor may also make other requests related to your case in particular.

What is the procedure?

You will lie on a special stretcher.
The doctor will place a gel on your abdomen in order to make the transductor slide better on your skin.
When the images are being captured, the doctor will ask you to remain immobile and hold your breath.
Follow the instructions and keep calm. In that way you contribute for the exam to be a success.
The exam lasts for 1 hour at the most.