General Ultrasound
Transvaginal Ultrasound
An internal scan giving a much clearer view of the uterus, ovaries and womb lining than is possible through the abdominal wall. Performed only with your consent, with a chaperone available, and you may stop at any point.
- Duration
- 20–30 minutes
- Price
- €160, report included
About this scan
What this scan involves
A transvaginal scan places a slim probe just inside the vagina, so it sits close to the organs being examined. Because the sound waves do not have to travel through the abdominal wall and bowel, the picture is far more detailed than an abdominal pelvic scan can give.
Your consent, and your control
This examination is performed only if you agree to it, after it has been explained to you. You can ask questions first, ask for a chaperone, ask the sonographer to stop at any moment, or decline entirely and have an abdominal scan instead. Declining does not affect your care, and the report will simply note what could and could not be assessed.
What it shows that an abdominal scan cannot
The thickness and texture of the endometrium, small fibroids and polyps, the detail of the ovaries including follicle counts, and early pregnancy before about seven weeks. For these questions an abdominal scan often cannot give a definite answer, and a normal-looking abdominal scan can miss something a transvaginal scan shows clearly.
What it involves practically
The probe is slimmer than a speculum and is covered with a fresh single-use sheath and lubricating gel for every patient. It is inserted a short distance only. Most people find it uncomfortable rather than painful, and it takes a few minutes.
What we check
Looked at during the scan
- The uterus: size, shape and orientation
- The endometrium: thickness and appearance
- Fibroids and polyps, including small ones
- Both ovaries, in detail, including cysts and follicles
- The pouch of Douglas, for free fluid
- Early pregnancy, where relevant
What's included
€160, nothing added at reception
- The examination, performed by an accredited sonographer or consultant
- A chaperone, on request, arranged when you book or asked for on the day
- A written report by a consultant radiologist
- The report to your GP within three working days, with your consent
The price you are quoted is the price you pay. No separate reporting fee, no consultation surcharge.
Why people book it
You might choose this scan if
- Pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding
- Suspected fibroids, polyps or ovarian cysts
- Fertility investigation
- Early pregnancy assessment
What to expect
Before, during and after
Before your scan
Attend with an empty bladder, the opposite of an abdominal pelvic scan. Wear something you can undress from the waist down easily; a skirt or dress is often easiest. Tell us when you book if you would like a chaperone, so one is arranged rather than found at the last minute.
During the scan
You undress from the waist down in private and lie on the couch with a sheet over you. The sonographer explains the examination, checks you agree, and only then begins. The probe is covered with a fresh sheath and gel and inserted a short distance. You may be asked to let your knees fall apart, and gentle pressure on your lower abdomen sometimes helps bring the ovaries into view. It takes a few minutes. Say so at any point if you want to pause or stop.
After your scan
You dress in private. There are no after-effects and you can go straight back to your day; very light spotting afterwards is occasionally seen and settles quickly. The written consultant report follows, typically within three working days, and goes to your GP with your consent.
How to prepare
Attend with an empty bladder. The scan is performed only with your consent, you may decline or stop at any point, and a chaperone is available on request. Please tell us when you book if you would like one arranged.
Book your Transvaginal Ultrasound
€160 including the consultant report, 20–30 minutes. Choose a time online, or send an enquiry and we will call you back, usually within one working day. If you need to reschedule, please let us know as early as you can.
Questions
Frequently asked
Can I say no?
Yes, at any point, including after it has started. You can have an abdominal scan instead, and the report will note what could and could not be assessed. Nobody will pressure you.
Can I have a chaperone?
Yes, always, and at no charge. Tell us when you book so one is arranged, or ask on the day. You are also welcome to bring somebody with you.
Does it hurt?
Most people describe it as uncomfortable rather than painful, similar to a smear test. Tell the sonographer if you are finding it painful and they will stop.
Can I have it during my period?
It can be done, and sometimes the timing in your cycle matters for the question being asked. Mention it when you book and we will advise whether to come now or at a particular point in your cycle.
Is it safe in early pregnancy?
Yes. It is the standard way to assess an early pregnancy and does not increase the risk of miscarriage.
What if I have never had penetrative sex, or have vaginismus?
Tell us when you book. We will not proceed with an internal scan in that situation unless you want to, and we will plan an abdominal scan instead, or discuss alternatives with you.
Also consider
Other general ultrasound scans
20–30 minutes
Pelvic Ultrasound
Assesses the uterus, ovaries and bladder, or the prostate and bladder, depending on your anatomy.
€150 · 20–30 minutes
40 minutes
Abdomen & Pelvis Ultrasound
Both examinations in a single appointment, covering the upper abdominal organs and the pelvic organs together.
€210 · 40 minutes
15 minutes
Soft Tissue Ultrasound (Lump & Bump)
Characterises lumps and swellings anywhere in the superficial soft tissues.
€145 · 15 minutes