Gynae Ultrasound Scan

Before your scan, your consultant gynaecologist will explain what will happen and answer any questions you may have. The procedure varies depending on whether you need a transabdominal or transvaginal scan. 

Transabdominal ultrasound

You’ll be asked to arrive with a full bladder for your scan. When you’re ready, you’ll be shown to one of our comfortable ultrasound suites, where you’ll be asked to lower your clothing to uncover your tummy and lie back on the bed.

Your consultant will apply a layer of clear, cool gel to your lower abdomen and gently move a small ultrasound probe across your skin. As the probe glides over your tummy, real-time images of your pelvic organs will appear on the screen. Your consultant may explain what they see as they go.

You’ll be lying on your back for most of the scan, though you might be asked to change position slightly or take a few deep breaths to help capture clearer images. The procedure is completely pain-free, although you may feel a little pressure on your full bladder. The scan usually takes just a few minutes to complete.

Transvaginal ultrasound scan

For a transvaginal ultrasound, you’ll be asked to empty your bladder before being shown to the scanning room. During the scan, you’ll lie on your back with your knees bent and legs gently apart (similar to the position used for a smear test). If this position feels uncomfortable, you can lie on your side with your knees drawn up towards your chest.

Your consultant will place a clean, protective cover on a thin ultrasound probe and apply a small amount of lubricating gel before gently inserting it into your vagina. The probe allows detailed images of your pelvic organs to appear on a nearby screen, where your consultant can assess and record them.

The scan may feel a little unusual or cause mild pressure, but it shouldn’t be painful. The procedure only takes a few minutes, and your consultant will explain what they’re doing throughout. If you experience any discomfort at any point, let your consultant know, as adjustments can easily be made to help you feel more comfortable.

Gynaecological ultrasounds are considered extremely safe. They use sound waves rather than radiation, making them suitable for all women, including those who are pregnant.

Side effects and complications are very rare. However, after a transvaginal scan, you may experience:

• mild discomfort

• a small amount of vaginal discharge

If you’re having a transabdominal ultrasound, you need to have a full bladder, so make sure you drink plenty of water in the hour leading up to your appointment. If you’re having a transvaginal ultrasound, your bladder will need to be emptied just before the scan. 

If you’re unsure which type of scan you’re having or would like, then please come with a full bladder, and the decision can be made at the time of your scan.

If there’s any additional information you need to prepare for your scan, your consultant will let you know before your appointment.

Gynaecological ultrasound scans are performed at our outpatient clinic, and you’ll be able to continue your normal activities immediately after your scan. 

You’ll receive your results at a follow-up appointment with your consultant on the same day or within a few days, where you can discuss the findings of the scan and any treatment you may need.

When you book a gynae ultrasound with us, you’ll receive a personalised service tailored to your individual needs. Your consultant will discuss which type of scan is most appropriate for you — either a transabdominal or transvaginal.

A single ultrasound costs £315, and if both scans are recommended, the combined cost is £420.

Please note that this fee covers the ultrasound itself and not the follow-up consultation. We aim to offer follow-up appointments on the same day or within a few days, so you won’t have to wait long for answers or next steps.

At Welbeck, our gynecologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book a gynae ultrasound scan you must be referred by either your GP or a gynecologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a gynecologist please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.