The cost of a private pelvic ultrasound in London varies depending on the clinic and the requirements of the scan, but the cost is between £120 – £300.

There is no specific preparation required for a transvaginal scan. However, we advise you to wear loose-fitting clothing and empty your bladder prior to the appointment. This allows the womb to fall into a better position for the vaginal scan.

Children are not allowed in the scan room. If a child needs to come to your ultrasound scan with you, please organise for a responsible adult to supervise them in the waiting area.

A full bladder is however required if you are having an over-the-tummy (transabdominal scan) or if the transvaginal scan is not appropriate, i.e. if you are not sexually active. You can drink around 0.5 litres of fluid 30 minutes before your appointment and not empty your bladder.

Transvaginal scans can be carried out at any stage of your menstrual cycle, including during your period. If you are wearing a tampon or menstrual cup, you will need to remove it at this stage.

When you return to the scan room, you will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie on the examination couch. You will be given a paper sheet or gown to cover yourself with.

The scan is performed using a long and narrow transducer or vaginal probe. The probe is cleaned before use and covered with a protective sheath. It is lubricated with a water-based gel to make its insertion into the vagina more comfortable. It is usually a painless procedure and will feel very similar to having an internal examination. The vaginal ultrasound typically takes between 10 – 20 minutes.

You should be able to continue your normal daily routine following your vaginal ultrasound. It’s common to have mild discomfort from the probe’s pressure on your belly or near the probe’s insertion. The discomfort will disappear after a few hours. Some women may also also experience slight vaginal discharge after the procedure which should also disappear after 24 hours.

Ultrasound scans excel in detecting unusual growths however are incapable of diagnosing cancer on their own without additional testing.

Ultrasound is an invaluable diagnostic tool and plays a crucial role in a comprehensive diagnostic approach, especially in cases of cancers such as ovarian cancer. Ultrasound scans are also sometimes used to assist in guiding procedures like biopsies to pinpoint the precise nature of the tumour.

Vaginal ultrasounds are safe but a very small minority of people experience mild pain or cramping, spotting and watery discharge in the hours following scan. 

A pelvic scan can be internal or external, depending on the order of the scan from your clinician and what is being investigated. Internal scans often produce better images because they are closer to the reproductive organs, however, in some instances, an external scan is clearer.

NHS facilities will provide results for the scan in 1 week or so following your appointment.

Most private scan clinics will have the results ready within one or two business days after completing the scan.

It’s not necessary to shave for a pelvic ultrasound. In most cases, it is done vaginally, which doesn’t necessitate shaving.

You will be asked to remove some of your clothing for the scan so it’s best to wear something comfortable and loose-fitting that won’t take a lot of effort to remove and wear back. You should also avoid wearing jewellery around the area that will be examined.