Is a Transvaginal Ultrasound Safe? What Women Need to Know

Medical tests can sometimes be daunting—particularly when they involve intimate parts of the body. For many women, the prospect of having a transvaginal ultrasound raises concerns about safety, comfort, and necessity. The good news is that this kind of scan is widely considered both safe and very effective for the assessment of reproductive health.

If you’ve been told you need one, this is what you need to know to be more comfortable prior to your visit.

Knowing What the Procedure Is

A transvaginal ultrasound utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create images of the internal pelvic organs. As opposed to an abdominal ultrasound, where the probe remains on the surface of the abdomen, this procedure includes a long, thin probe that is inserted into the vaginal canal gently.

This enables the doctor to have a nearer and clearer look at the uterus, ovaries, cervix, and support structures, so it is well-suited for checks in early pregnancy, unexplained pelvic pain, or irregular bleeding.

Is It Safe?

Yes, it is. This is a non-invasive procedure that involves no radiation and is safe even in early pregnancy. The probe releases sound waves that reflect off organs and tissue, forming real-time images on a screen. There is no incision, injection, or exposure to toxic substances.

Most women have this scan repeated multiple times during their childbearing years, either for fertility testing, pregnancy monitoring, or evaluation of gynecological complications. Its safety and accuracy are the two reasons it is a first-line imaging method for OB-GYNs.

For most women, the procedure is not painful, though it can feel a bit uncomfortable or unfamiliar. The probe is typically smaller than a speculum used during a Pap smear, and it is always covered with a protective sheath and lubricated for comfort.

Communication with your doctor or sonologist is key. Letting them know if you’re feeling anxious or uncomfortable helps ensure a smoother, more relaxed experience.

Where to Get One

Several hospitals and diagnostic clinics provide TV ultrasound in the Philippines, and the process is usually fast, taking 15 to 30 minutes. If you’re not sure if you need one or want to know why, you can have a doctor check-in with you online via NowServing PH.

Understanding that a transvaginal ultrasound is safe and very informative can serve to eliminate fear and enable you to proceed with confidence. It’s an invaluable resource for safeguarding your reproductive health and ensuring any issues are handled early on and correctly.