London Gynaecology Ultrasound Centre.

Gynaecology ultrasounds are recommended for various reasons, including investigating pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, or suspected fibroids. They're crucial for diagnosing ovarian cysts, monitoring follicle development in fertility treatments, and assessing early pregnancies. Your GP might suggest an ultrasound if you're experiencing unexplained gynaecological symptoms. They're also used to guide certain procedures, like egg retrieval in IVF. Remember, ultrasounds provide valuable information but may need to be combined with other tests for a complete diagnosis. Your GP can explain why an ultrasound is necessary in your specific situation.

A typical gynaecology ultrasound takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the examination. Transabdominal scans might be quicker, while transvaginal scans often provide more detailed images and may take longer. The sonographer needs time to capture images from different angles and take measurements. Your GP can give you an estimate of the expected duration for your specific scan. They might recommend allowing extra time for preparation and post-scan discussion. Remember, it's important not to rush the procedure to ensure accurate and comprehensive imaging.

Gynaecology ultrasounds are generally very safe with no known risks or side effects. They don't use radiation, making them suitable for repeated use and safe during pregnancy. Transvaginal ultrasounds might cause mild discomfort but shouldn't be painful. In extremely rare cases, internal ultrasounds could potentially spread existing pelvic infections. We your Spitalfields GP can address any specific concerns you might have about the procedure. They'll ensure the benefits of the ultrasound outweigh any potential risks. Remember to inform the sonographer of any pain or discomfort during the scan.

Yes, a gynaecological ultrasound can play a crucial role in detecting signs of gynaecological cancers, such as ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancer. The ultrasound can identify abnormal growths, masses, or changes in the reproductive organs that may indicate the presence of cancer. For example, ovarian cancer might present as a complex cyst with irregularities, while endometrial cancer could be suggested by thickening of the uterine lining.

However, while an ultrasound can suggest the presence of cancer, it cannot definitively diagnose it. If abnormalities are detected, further testing, such as a biopsy or advanced imaging, is typically required for a definitive diagnosis. At Spital Clinic, we ensure a comprehensive evaluation to support early detection and effective treatment planning for gynaecological cancers.

Immediate results from gynaecology ultrasounds are not always possible. The sonographer can often provide some immediate feedback. However, a gynaecologist/radiologist typically reviews the images in detail before issuing a full report. Your GP will receive this report and discuss the findings with you. They might arrange a follow-up appointment to explain the results and any next steps. Remember, it's important not to worry if you don't get immediate results. Your GP will contact you promptly if there are any urgent findings.

‍Vascular Ultrasound Scans: Aimed at creating images of blood vessels in the body, this scan assesses blood flow, detects blockages or clots, and evaluates the overall health of arteries and veins.

MSK Ultrasound Scans: A non-invasive imaging technique to visualise muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. This scan helps diagnose and assess conditions like sprains, strains, tears, and inflammation in the musculoskeletal system.

‍General Ultrasound Scans: A versatile live screening technique that can be used to screen nearly every area and organ in the human body. Using various probes, we can penetrate different surfaces to provide insights into what is happening inside your body.

Our expertise in these ultrasound types ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning for our patients.

The frequency of gynaecology ultrasounds depends on individual circumstances. There's no standard recommendation for routine ultrasounds in asymptomatic women. Your GP might suggest regular ultrasounds if you have specific gynaecological conditions or risk factors. For example, women with a history of ovarian cysts might need more frequent scans. During fertility treatments or early pregnancy, ultrasounds may be performed more often. Your GP can advise on the appropriate frequency based on your personal health history. Remember, ultrasounds are typically performed in response to symptoms or as part of specific treatments.

Yes, you can typically have a gynaecology ultrasound during your period. Menstruation doesn't significantly affect most ultrasound examinations. However, heavy bleeding might interfere with image quality in some cases. Your GP or the ultrasound department can advise if it's better to reschedule. For certain conditions, like assessing the uterine lining, scans are often scheduled for specific days of your cycle. Remember to inform the sonographer if you're menstruating, as they might need to adjust their technique.

There are several types of ultrasound scans, each designed for specific purposes:

Abdominal ultrasound: Used to examine organs in the abdomen, such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and kidneys.
Pelvic ultrasound: Used to assess the uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic structures in women, or the prostate gland in men.
Pregnancy ultrasound: Used to monitor fetal development, confirm the due date, and detect potential complications.
Breast ultrasound: Used to evaluate breast lumps or abnormalities detected during a mammogram or physical exam.
Vascular ultrasound: Used to assess blood flow in arteries and veins and detect blockages or clots.

Yes, gynaecology ultrasounds play a crucial role in diagnosing ectopic pregnancies. They can often identify the location of a pregnancy, whether in the uterus or elsewhere. Transvaginal ultrasounds are particularly effective for detecting early ectopic pregnancies. Your GP might recommend an urgent ultrasound if you have symptoms suggesting an ectopic pregnancy. They'll combine ultrasound findings with blood tests for the most accurate diagnosis. Remember, early detection of ectopic pregnancies is crucial, so report any concerning symptoms to your GP promptly.

2D ultrasounds provide flat, black-and-white images of your reproductive organs. They're the standard for most gynaecological examinations. 3D ultrasounds create a three-dimensional image, offering a more detailed view of structures. 3D scans can be particularly useful for examining uterine abnormalities or assessing the uterine cavity. Your GP might recommend a 3D ultrasound for specific conditions or if 2D images are inconclusive. They can explain the benefits and limitations of each type. Remember, 2D ultrasounds are sufficient for most gynaecological assessments.