Pelvic ultrasound
Quick answer: A pelvic ultrasound, done over the lower belly, shows the bladder and the uterus and ovaries in women or the prostate in men. Doctors order it for pelvic pain, irregular or heavy periods, fibroids, ovarian cysts or bladder problems.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 15 to 30 minutes
- Before the testCome with a comfortably full bladder; you may be asked to drink water an hour before.
- In fertility careIt can show fibroids, cysts and the shape of the uterus, which can matter when trying to conceive.
How the test is done
- 1Drink water about an hour before so you arrive with a full bladder
- 2You lie on your back with your lower belly uncovered
- 3Gel is spread on the lower belly and the probe is pressed and moved over it
- 4An internal scan may be suggested afterwards for a closer view
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A sonologist or radiologist reports on the scan, and your doctor will explain what the findings mean for you.
If the result is outside the usual range
A pelvic ultrasound can show fibroids, ovarian cysts, a thickened lining, an unusual shape of the uterus, signs of polycystic ovaries, an enlarged prostate in men, or bladder problems. Some small findings show better on a transvaginal scan.
Who usually has this test
Women with pelvic pain, heavy or irregular periods or suspected fibroids or cysts, girls and women who prefer not to have an internal scan, and men with bladder or prostate symptoms.
Risks and aftercare
No radiation is used; the pressure on a full bladder can be uncomfortable, and you can empty it as soon as the scan is done.
Names and options
Also called: pelvic scan, USG pelvis, transabdominal pelvic scan
Listed by the hospital as
- PELVIC SCAN
Questions about this test
What is the difference between a pelvic and a transvaginal scan?
A pelvic scan is done over the lower belly with a full bladder, while a transvaginal scan uses a thin probe inside the vagina with an empty bladder. The internal scan gives a closer, clearer view of the uterus and ovaries.
Can a pelvic ultrasound show PCOS?
It can show many small follicles or larger ovaries, which is one of the features of PCOS. PCOS is diagnosed with symptoms and blood tests as well, not the scan alone.
How full should my bladder be?
Comfortably full, so you feel the need to pass urine but are not in pain. If it is too full, staff may let you empty a little.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.