Do I need a full bladder for a pelvic scan?

Yes. A full bladder is essential for the transabdominal pelvic scan as it acts as an acoustic window, pushing the bowel out of the way and allowing clear visualisation of the uterus and ovaries. Please drink 1 litre of water one hour before your appointment and do not empty your bladder.

What is the difference between a pelvic scan and a transvaginal scan?

A pelvic scan is performed externally over the abdomen. A transvaginal scan uses a small probe placed internally to provide closer, more detailed views of the uterus and ovaries. The transvaginal approach is often recommended as a follow-up to provide additional detail, particularly for assessing the endometrium or small ovarian cysts.

Is a pelvic scan painful?

A transabdominal pelvic scan is entirely painless. The only sensation is the cool gel on your abdomen and the gentle pressure of the transducer. A full bladder can feel slightly uncomfortable but this is temporary.

Can a pelvic scan detect endometriosis?

Ultrasound can detect some features of endometriosis, such as endometriomas (ovarian cysts containing old blood), but it cannot reliably detect superficial peritoneal endometriosis. If endometriosis is suspected, a specialist gynaecology referral and possibly laparoscopy may be required for definitive diagnosis.

Will I receive a report on the day?

Yes. A written report with measurements and images is provided before you leave the clinic. The report includes all findings and recommended next steps, which you can share with your GP or gynaecologist.

Do I need a GP referral?

No referral is required. You can book directly online or by telephone. However, we recommend sharing your report with your GP so that any findings can be followed up appropriately within the NHS.

HCPC Registered— All sonographers

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Same-Day Available— Mon – Sat

Written Report— Within 24 hours

HCPC Registered

CQC Compliant

Same-Day Available

Written Report

Women's Health

Pelvic Ultrasound Scan

A detailed assessment of the uterus, ovaries, and bladder using high-resolution ultrasound, providing clear answers about pelvic pain, irregular bleeding, and reproductive health.

20-30 minutes

Same-day appointments

Marylebone, London W1

HCPC RegisteredCQC CompliantSame-Day AvailableWritten Report IncludedWomen's Health Expert

£235

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4.9/5 from 600+ patients

HCPC-registered sonographers

Written report within 24 hours

Same-day appointments available

CQC-compliant clinic

Understanding Your Situation

When Pelvic Pain or Irregular Bleeding Needs Answers

Pelvic pain, irregular periods, or unexplained bleeding can leave you feeling anxious and uncertain. These symptoms are common -- affecting millions of women in the UK -- but they deserve proper investigation rather than being dismissed. A pelvic ultrasound scan provides a clear, non-invasive view of your uterus, ovaries, and bladder, helping to identify the cause of your symptoms so you can move forward with the right treatment. Our specialist sonographers at 29 Weymouth Street take the time to explain every finding and answer all your questions.

Clinical Overview

What is a Pelvic Ultrasound Scan?

A pelvic ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the organs within your pelvis -- primarily the uterus, ovaries, and bladder. It is the first-line investigation recommended by NICE for pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, and suspected gynaecological conditions. The scan is performed transabdominally (over the abdomen) and may be supplemented by a transvaginal scan for enhanced detail. Uterine fibroids affect up to 70% of women by age 50, and ovarian cysts affect 1 in 10 women at some point in their lives -- making pelvic ultrasound one of the most commonly requested investigations in women's health.

Is This Scan Right for You?

Who Should Book This Scan?

Women with persistent or cyclical pelvic pain

Those experiencing heavy, irregular, or prolonged menstrual bleeding

Women with suspected fibroids, polyps, or ovarian cysts

Patients with unexplained bloating or a feeling of pelvic pressure

Women experiencing pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)

Those with urinary symptoms such as frequency, urgency, or incomplete emptying

Diagnostic Scope

What This Scan Can Detect

Uterine Fibroids

Benign muscular growths within or on the uterus, affecting up to 70% of women by age 50. Can cause heavy periods and pelvic pressure.

Endometrial Polyps

Benign growths of the uterine lining that can cause irregular bleeding and are detectable by ultrasound.

Ovarian Cysts

Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries, ranging from simple functional cysts to complex lesions requiring monitoring or treatment.

Polycystic Ovaries

Multiple small follicles on the ovaries associated with PCOS, which affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age.

Endometrial Thickening

Abnormal thickening of the uterine lining, which may require further investigation particularly in postmenopausal women.

Bladder Abnormalities

Wall thickening, polyps, and post-void residual volume to assess bladder function.

Free Fluid

Abnormal fluid in the pelvis that may indicate a ruptured cyst, ectopic pregnancy, or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Your Appointment

What Happens During Your Scan

Arrival with full bladder

Please arrive with a comfortably full bladder. This is essential for the transabdominal component of the scan.

Transabdominal scan

Warm gel is applied to your lower abdomen and the sonographer uses a transducer to assess the uterus, ovaries, and bladder through the abdominal wall.

Bladder emptying if needed

You may be asked to empty your bladder partway through for a post-void residual assessment or to improve views of certain structures.

Discussion of findings

Your sonographer explains key findings in plain language during the scan and answers your questions.

Written report

A detailed written report with measurements and images is provided before you leave the clinic.

Before Your Appointment

How to Prepare for Your Scan

1
Drink 1 litre of water one hour before your appointment and do not empty your bladder -- a full bladder is essential
2
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your lower abdomen
3
There is no need to fast before a pelvic scan
4
Continue any prescribed medications as normal
5
Bring any previous scan reports or gynaecology letters for reference

After Your Scan

Understanding Your Pelvic Scan Results

Your sonographer will discuss the key findings with you immediately after the scan. A written report with measurements and images is provided before you leave. Normal results provide valuable reassurance. Where abnormalities are identified -- such as fibroids, cysts, or endometrial changes -- the report will include detailed measurements, characteristics, and recommended next steps that you can share with your GP or gynaecologist. If a transvaginal scan would provide additional diagnostic information, this will be discussed with you.

Why Private?