What is Involved in an Ovarian Cyst Ultrasound?

If a female patient is experiencing pain on the lower left or right hand side of her pelvis, a gynecologist my order an ovarian cyst ultrasound. Some physicians equip their offices with these high-tech machines, but not all of them do. A patient may be referred to a hospital or outpatient diagnostic center to have the test performed. An ovarian cyst ultrasound usually is a painless and quick procedure, though some women may experience mild discomfort.

Ultrasound technology uses sound waves to create images of internal structures. These images are displayed on a monitor, recorded and measured so a radiologist can accurately read the results. An ovarian cyst ultrasound is usually ordered when a doctor suspects that a patient's discomfort is stemming from a cystic ovary or other abnormality, such as a tumor mass. During the test, the technician is able to measure the size of a cyst or tumor as well as the reproductive organs. This information can be helpful to the doctor when making a diagnosis or recommending treatment.

A transvaginal ultrasound is usually the best way for a radiology technician to obtain a clear picture. When this type of ovarian cyst ultrasound is conducted, the patient will be asked to undress from the waist down. She will likely be given a white paper sheet or gown so she can cover herself and feel more comfortable. The patient will then lie down on an exam table. While resting on her back, she may be asked to place her feet in stir-ups.

When the test begins, the doctor or technician lubricates the ultrasonic probe, or wand, and then inserts it into the woman's vagina. If the patient prefers to insert it herself, the medical professional will usually give her the option to do so. The technician then carefully adjusts the position of the probe until she is able to locate the patient's reproductive organs. When she is successful, a black and white image, created by ultrasonic sound waves, appears on the screen so that measurements can be taken and recorded.

During the ovarian cyst ultrasound, the technician may have difficulty obtaining a clear image if the patient has a full bladder. For this reason, it is wise for women to use the restroom prior to testing, and limit fluid intake just before the test. A patient's weight may also affect the quality of the image. A technician may have difficulty reaching the reproductive organs with the probe if a woman is heavyset, for example.

An ovarian cyst ultrasound usually does not take longer than 20 minutes, and many times, it is much quicker. At the conclusion of the test, the probe is removed from the patient's vagina and she is free to get dressed and go about the rest of her day. The technologist sends the diagnostic images to the radiologist who reviews them, notes his findings, and forwards a report to the patient's doctor.