what is a pelvic ultrasound

A pelvic ultrasound is a medical imaging exam that uses sound waves to create pictures of the organs inside the pelvis, which is the area between the belly and legs. The test can help diagnose problems like pain, bleeding, tumors, or cysts. There are different types of pelvic ultrasounds, including abdominal, vaginal (for women), and rectal (for men), and each looks at different organs or serves a particular purpose. The ultrasound is performed by a healthcare provider who specializes in ultrasounds, also known as a sonographer. During the exam, a device called a transducer is used to transmit sound waves that bounce off the organs and tissues in the pelvis, creating images that appear on a video screen. The procedure is safe, noninvasive, and does not use ionizing radiation. The approach used for the ultrasound depends on the reason for the test and whether the patient is a man or a woman. A pelvic ultrasound can help diagnose a range of conditions, including pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, other menstrual problems, infertility, and the positioning of an intrauterine device (IUD) .