What it is

• ➤ A transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create detailed pictures of a woman’s pelvic organs.
• ✦ A thin ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the vagina to obtain close, high-resolution images of the uterus, endometrium (uterine lining), ovaries, fallopian tubes, and surrounding pelvic structures.
• ➟ Unlike abdominal ultrasound, it provides sharper visualization, especially of small abnormalities.
• Important: TVUS is safe, painless, and radiation-free—it does not involve X-rays.

Why it’s done

• ➤ Primary reasons include:
  • ▪ Investigating abnormal uterine bleeding.
  • ▪ Evaluating pelvic pain or suspected ovarian cysts/fibroids.
  • ▪ Assessing infertility (follicle monitoring, uterine lining evaluation).
  • ▪ Detecting early pregnancy or ruling out ectopic pregnancy.
  • ▪ Following up on known pelvic conditions (endometriosis, tumors).
• ✦ Benefits:
  • ✅ Clearer images of reproductive organs compared to abdominal ultrasound.
  • ✅ Helps avoid unnecessary invasive procedures.
  • ✅ Widely available in Korea’s clinics and hospitals.
• ⟶ Limitations:
  • ▪ Cannot always visualize fallopian tubes unless fluid is present.
  • ▪ May not provide full information in women with severe pelvic pain.
• Bold takeaway: TVUS is often the first-line imaging tool in gynecology because of its clarity and accuracy.

Alternatives

• ➤ Abdominal ultrasound: Less invasive but less detailed.
• ✦ MRI: Provides high-resolution images for complex cases but is more expensive.
• ➟ CT scan: Rarely used for gynecology due to radiation exposure.
• Important: TVUS is usually preferred first, with MRI reserved for unclear or advanced cases.

Preparation

• ➤ Before the test:
  • ▪ Usually no fasting required.
  • ▪ Empty your bladder before the exam (a full bladder is needed for abdominal, but not vaginal ultrasound).
• ✦ Tell your doctor if you:
  • ▪ Are pregnant or might be.
  • ▪ Have vaginal pain or infections.
• ➟ Clothing: Wear comfortable two-piece outfit for convenience.
• Important: No special preparation is needed, but emotional comfort matters—bring a support person if anxious.

How it’s done

• ➤ Step 1 – Positioning: You lie on the exam table with knees bent.
• ✦ Step 2 – Probe preparation: The transducer is covered with a protective sheath (like a condom) and gel for smooth insertion.
• ➟ Step 3 – Probe insertion: The thin probe (about 2–3 cm wide) is gently placed inside the vagina.
• ➤ Step 4 – Imaging: The doctor/technician moves the probe slightly to capture images of the uterus, ovaries, and pelvic structures.
• ✦ Step 5 – Interpretation: Images are displayed on a monitor and later reviewed by a radiologist or gynecologist.
• → Duration: 10–20 minutes.
• What you feel: Mild pressure, but usually no significant pain.

Recovery

• ➤ Immediately after: You can resume normal activities right away.
• ✦ Possible effects:
  • ▪ Very mild spotting (rare).
  • ▪ Temporary discomfort if you have pelvic sensitivity.
• ➟ Results:
  • ▪ Normal → No structural issues detected.
  • ▪ Abnormal → May show fibroids, cysts, polyps, or early pregnancy concerns.
• ⟶ Follow-up depends on results: Sometimes MRI, biopsy, or hysteroscopy may be advised.
• Important: Always schedule a follow-up consultation to discuss the findings in detail.

Treatment option in Korea

• ➤ Where available:
  • ▪ All major hospitals and women’s clinics in Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Daegu, and regional centers.
  • ▪ Specialized fertility and women’s health centers.
• ✦ Why Korea:
  • ▪ Modern high-resolution ultrasound machines.
  • ▪ Experienced specialists in gynecology and reproductive medicine.
  • ▪ Short waiting times and same-day results.
• ➟ For international patients:
  • ▪ Clinics provide multilingual coordinators (English, Chinese, Russian, etc.).
  • ▪ Comprehensive packages often include Pap smear, HPV test, ultrasound, and counseling.
  • ▪ Written reports in English are available for continuity of care.
• ⟶ If abnormalities are found:
  • ▪ Benign findings (cysts, fibroids) → regular monitoring or minor procedures.
  • ▪ Precancerous or malignant suspicion → biopsy or surgery.
  • ▪ Fertility-related findings → advanced treatments such as IVF can be initiated on-site.
• Important: Korea’s integrated women’s health system allows diagnosis and treatment to be completed efficiently, often within a few days.