• Assessment of the uterus (womb) – size, shape, position and muscle pattern.
• Measurement and assessment of the endometrium (lining of the womb).
• Detailed review of both ovaries – follicles, cysts, solid areas and blood flow where appropriate.
• Review of the adnexa, fallopian tube region and Pouch of Douglas for fluid or masses.
• Transabdominal scan through the tummy wall, plus an optional transvaginal scan for extra detail where clinically indicated and where you consent.
• Same-day explanation of the key findings and a structured written report.

• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain.
• Heavy, painful or irregular periods.
• Bleeding between periods or after sex.
• Postmenopausal bleeding.
• Bloating, pelvic pressure or a feeling of “fullness”.
• Known fibroids or ovarian cysts – baseline or follow-up imaging.
• Suspected PCOS or hormonal imbalance.
• Baseline assessment before fertility treatment or IVF.

• Please arrive 10 minutes early to complete a short safety questionnaire.
• For the transabdominal part of the scan, you may be asked to have a comfortably full bladder. Your appointment confirmation will explain if this is needed.
• You can eat and drink as normal unless we specifically advise otherwise.
• Wear a two-piece outfit if possible – it makes access to the lower abdomen easier.
• Bring a list of your current medications and any previous imaging reports if you have them.

• Your sonographer will review your symptoms, medical history and any referral letter.
• A warm gel is applied on the lower abdomen and the ultrasound probe is moved over the skin.
• If an internal scan is appropriate and you consent, a covered, lubricated probe is gently introduced into the vagina to obtain high-detail views.
• You can stop the scan at any time if you feel uncomfortable.
• The full appointment usually takes around 20–30 minutes.

No. A transvaginal ultrasound is optional. It is often recommended because it gives much clearer detail of the womb lining and ovaries, especially if you are overweight, have bowel gas or a tilted uterus. You will:

• Receive written information and have the opportunity to ask questions.
• Give or decline consent via our secure online consent form.
• Be able to change your mind on the day – your choice is respected at all times.

Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation. It is considered very safe and is routinely used in pregnancy and gynaecology. At UKSONO we follow strict safety guidelines from professional bodies including HCPC, SoR and BMUS, and we only scan for as long as is needed to obtain diagnostic images.

• Your sonographer will normally explain the main findings before you leave, in plain language.
• A detailed written report is prepared after the scan and securely sent to you (and your GP or consultant if requested).
• If we see something that needs urgent attention, we will explain this clearly and advise on the best next steps.

Ultrasound is an excellent first-line test but no scan can see everything. Sometimes the view is limited by body habitus, bowel gas or previous surgery. In some situations your GP or specialist may still recommend additional tests such as MRI, CT or hysteroscopy. We will always highlight this in the report where relevant.

An abdominal ultrasound focuses on organs such as the liver, gallbladder, kidneys and pancreas. A pelvic ultrasound is targeted at the reproductive organs – uterus, endometrium, ovaries and adnexa – and is the correct scan for most period, fertility and postmenopausal symptoms.

Yes. Pelvic ultrasound is the main imaging test used to assess fibroids, ovarian cysts and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We measure lesion size, number and location and describe features that help your clinician decide on the right management or follow-up.

Ultrasound can detect endometriosis-related cysts (endometriomas) and some secondary signs such as ovarian tethering and deep nodules. However, small or superficial endometriosis can be difficult to see and further tests or laparoscopy may still be required. Your report will explain what the scan can and cannot confirm.

Ultrasound is very helpful for assessing the appearance of the ovaries and identifying cysts or masses that may need further assessment. Many cysts are benign and can be safely monitored. If we see features that could be suspicious, we will clearly flag this and advise urgent review by your GP or gynaecologist for blood tests and/or further imaging.

Yes, you can be scanned during your period, and sometimes it is clinically useful. However, if your main concern is heavy or irregular bleeding we may suggest a time in your cycle when the endometrium is easier to interpret. If you are very uncomfortable, you may prefer to rebook – contact us and we will help you choose the best timing.

Most women describe transvaginal scanning as uncomfortable rather than painful. The probe is narrow, covered and well lubricated. Your dignity and privacy are protected at all times, with a chaperone available. You stay in control of the examination and can ask us to stop immediately if you feel any pain or wish to end the scan.

All scans are performed by HCPC-registered sonographers with extensive NHS gynaecology and fertility experience. Our team regularly scans for fibroids, cysts, fertility work-ups and postmenopausal symptoms and follows nationally recognised guidelines for safe ultrasound practice.

No – self-referral is welcome. Many patients come directly to us to avoid long waits. If you already have a GP, gynaecology or fertility consultant involved in your care, you can upload their details during booking so we can copy the report to them.

Yes. A pelvic ultrasound is commonly used as a baseline fertility scan. Please tell us in advance if you are under a fertility clinic so we can tailor the report with the information they usually require, such as antral follicle counts and endometrial thickness.

Most appointments last around 20–30 minutes. This includes time to take a history, perform the scan (abdominal and, if appropriate, transvaginal) and discuss the main findings with you afterwards.

Prices start from £185. The exact fee depends on the clinic location and any additional options selected in the booking system. The price you see in the online booking calendar is the amount you pay – there are no hidden reporting or admin fees.

Yes, you are welcome to bring a support person. For infection control and privacy we normally allow one adult chaperone in the room. Young children may find the environment difficult; if possible, arrange childcare so you can focus on your scan.

If you think you might be pregnant, please tell us when booking. In early pregnancy a dedicated pregnancy ultrasound is more appropriate than a pelvic scan and can be booked separately through our pregnancy ultrasound service. We will guide you to the most suitable appointment type.

A normal pelvic ultrasound is still useful information. It can rule out many structural causes such as fibroids, large cysts or thickened endometrium. If the scan is normal, we will advise you to share the report with your GP so they can consider other causes (for example hormonal, bowel or bladder issues) and arrange further tests if needed.

Yes, with your permission we can send the report directly to your GP or specialist. You will also receive a copy for your own records. This helps ensure continuity of care and avoids duplication of tests.

We can scan older teenagers where clinically appropriate, usually using a transabdominal approach. For patients under 18 we request that a parent or legal guardian attends and that the referral is discussed in advance to ensure the scan type is suitable and safe.

Yes. A transvaginal scan may not be suitable, for example, immediately after certain gynaecological procedures, in some infections or if you have never been sexually active and would prefer not to proceed. Your sonographer will assess this with you and offer a transabdominal-only scan where appropriate.

If we identify findings that could require urgent medical review – for example a significantly thickened endometrium in a postmenopausal woman or a suspicious ovarian mass – we will:

• Explain this clearly to you in person.
• Provide a written report highlighting the urgency.
• Advise you to contact your GP, NHS 111 or local emergency department depending on the situation.

We are primarily a self-pay service. Some patients are able to reclaim all or part of the fee from their insurer. If you plan to do this, please check with your insurance provider in advance and let us know what documentation they require.

UKSONO Healthcare currently provides pelvic ultrasound from clinics in Tunbridge Wells and Orpington, serving Kent, South-East London and surrounding areas. Full address and travel information are included in your booking confirmation email.