Transvaginal Ultrasound

The reasons why hopeful parents come to Tulsa Fertility Center are just as unique as the patients themselves. Each one has a different diagnosis and family-building goals. To create the best treatment plan for each person, Dr. Shauna McKinney performs diagnostic testing. For women, one of these tests is the transvaginal ultrasound, which is a type of pelvic ultrasound.

Why do I need a pelvic ultrasound?

Every test that our Tulsa fertility doctor orders has a purpose. A transvaginal ultrasound provides valuable insight into the female reproductive system. This single test allows Dr. McKinney to view the uterus and ovaries and gain several pieces of information.

She can look for uterine fibroids, uterine polyps and ovarian cysts.
Dr. McKinney can perform an antral follicle count to learn about a patient’s egg supply.

Pelvic ultrasounds also play an important role during fertility treatment. This test can ensure that the uterine lining has the appropriate thickness to support a pregnancy. It can also help Dr. McKinney monitor your ovaries’ response to fertility medications.

What happens during a transvaginal ultrasound?

Many patients have questions about what to expect during this type of ultrasound. Our Tulsa fertility doctor understands that it can be reassuring to know how the process works. As a result, she takes time to explain this fertility exam to each patient.

The patient will undress from the waist down before relaxing on an exam table.
Dr. McKinney or an ultrasound technician will cover the ultrasound probe with a lubricated sheath. They will then slowly place the tip two to three inches into the patient’s vagina.
Using sound waves, the ultrasound probe will transmit images to a screen in the room.
During the exam, Dr. McKinney or the technician will gently move the ultrasound probe to get a better view of certain organs.

The entire process takes just a few minutes, and we will walk you through each step. Our team takes steps to maximize comfort, so most patients don’t experience any discomfort or pain during the ultrasound.

You may notice increased discharge after the transvaginal ultrasound exam, due to the lubrication. For this reason, we often recommend that patients bring a pad to wear afterward. Otherwise, you can resume your day without any restrictions after the exam is over.

What happens after Dr. McKinney reviews my ultrasound results?

After reviewing the results, Dr. McKinney will discuss the findings with the patient. If the transvaginal ultrasound is part of fertility testing, she will review the patient’s other test results to help reach an infertility diagnosis.

With an infertility diagnosis, Dr. McKinney can work with the patient to develop an individualized treatment plan. She will consider everything from a patient’s diagnosis and health to their family-building goals and budget as she makes this plan.

Tulsa Fertility Center offers a wide variety of proven fertility treatment options that can make parenthood possible. Contact us if you would like to learn more about how we can support you on your journey to conceive.