By Kam Chhabra, MRT(N), CCPA — Physician Relations Manager, Vitacorp
A pelvic ultrasound can feel like an intimate and slightly nerve-wracking exam. For many women, the combination of uncertainty about what the technologist will find, some discomfort about the procedure itself, and the clinical environment can make it feel like a lot. I want to be straightforward about what’s involved — and explain why we take the patient experience here seriously.
The reality is that when you’re in the right hands, a pelvic ultrasound is a manageable, quick, and often reassuring exam. Let me walk you through it.
This post is for you. Here’s exactly how the process works, what to bring, and what to expect — so you can get it done quickly and without the usual confusion.
What Is a Pelvic Ultrasound?
A pelvic ultrasound is an imaging exam that uses sound waves — not radiation — to create images of the organs in your lower abdomen. For women, this typically includes the uterus, ovaries, cervix, and bladder.
Your doctor might order a pelvic ultrasound to investigate:
- Pelvic pain or cramping that doesn’t have a clear cause
- Irregular, heavy, or missed periods
- Suspected fibroids (benign uterine growths) or cysts
- Fertility concerns or IVF monitoring
- Abnormal bleeding after menopause
- Follow-up after a previously identified finding
It’s one of the most commonly ordered imaging exams for women’s health, and for good reason — it gives your doctor a lot of useful information without any radiation exposure.
Transabdominal vs. Transvaginal — What's the Difference?
There are two approaches to pelvic ultrasound, and your doctor’s requisition will specify which is needed — or both may be ordered together.
Transabdominal ultrasound involves the technologist moving a probe over the lower portion of your abdomen, similar to how you’d imagine a pregnancy scan. The probe doesn’t enter the body. This requires a full bladder (more on that below), which helps push the uterus into a better viewing position and acts as a window for the sound waves.
Transvaginal ultrasound uses a smaller probe inserted internally for a closer look at the uterus and ovaries. This provides clearer images of structures near the cervix and is often used when more detail is needed. It doesn’t require a full bladder. There may be mild pressure, but it should not be painful. If you experience significant discomfort, tell your technologist immediately — they will stop.
How to Prepare
If your exam includes a transabdominal scan, preparation is important:
- Drink approximately 4–5 glasses (about one litre) of water or clear fluid one hour before your appointment time
- Do not empty your bladder until after the scan — a full bladder is essential for the transabdominal images
- Eat normally — there’s no fasting required for a pelvic ultrasound
- Wear comfortable, two-piece clothing — you’ll only need to lower the waistband of your clothing for the abdominal portion
Your doctor’s requisition should outline the preparation required. If it’s unclear, call us at (416) 762-3818 before your visit and we’ll confirm exactly what you need to do. Coming in unprepared (with an empty bladder when you need a full one) means we may not be able to complete the exam — so this step really does matter.
What Happens During the Scan
When you arrive, our front desk team will check you in, confirm your exam type, and let you know when to go in. The imaging room is private and clinical — clean, quiet, and professional.
Your technologist will ask you to lie on the exam table. For the transabdominal portion, they apply a warm gel to your lower abdomen and move the probe slowly across the surface. You’ll feel gentle pressure from the probe. The gel might feel slightly cool at first but warms up immediately. You may be asked to breathe in or hold your breath for a second during certain images.
The technologist takes still images and measurements at various points. They’re looking at the size, shape, and position of your uterus and ovaries, as well as checking for any visible cysts, fibroids, or fluid. They don’t typically discuss findings with you during the scan — that’s because the images are sent to a radiologist, who is the physician who interprets them and writes the official report.
If a transvaginal portion is ordered, the technologist will let you know. They’ll explain the probe, the process, and ensure you’re comfortable at every step. You can ask questions at any point, and you can also stop the exam if you need to.
Total scan time is usually 20 to 40 minutes depending on what’s being assessed.
The Staff at Vitacorp — Why It Matters for This Exam
A pelvic ultrasound requires trust. You’re lying down, the exam involves your reproductive organs, and you’re often in the room wondering what the images might show. The technologist’s manner in that room makes a significant difference in how the experience feels.
At Vitacorp, our sonographers are experienced and our patients consistently note the same things in their reviews: the staff are kind, calm, communicative, and respectful. They don’t rush through the exam. They explain what they’re doing. They notice when a patient seems anxious and take a moment to acknowledge it.
Our facility is clean and well-maintained — another thing that matters when you’re in an exam room in a vulnerable position. We take that seriously.
Our team is also multilingual, which matters for many of the women in our Etobicoke and west Toronto patient population. If English isn’t the language you’re most comfortable in, ask at the front desk — there’s a good chance someone on our team speaks yours.
Same-Day Appointments Available
We offer same-day ultrasound when capacity allows. Many patients are surprised by how quickly they can get in. Call us at (416) 762-3818 in the morning and we’ll let you know what’s available that day.
We’re at Suite 603, 1243 Islington Ave, Etobicoke — directly connected to Islington TTC Station via covered walkway. Open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. Bring your health card and doctor’s requisition.
— Kam, Vitacorp Islington Station
What Patients Are Saying
4.4 stars — 198 Google reviews
“Fantastic team of professionals! Clean facility! Best place for X-ray and ultrasound in Etobicoke.” — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Local Guide (141 reviews)
“I came in for an X-ray the other day and was taken right in. This is the fastest and most efficient walk-in X-ray clinic in Etobicoke I have been to. The staff is very professional.” — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cove Mechanical
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pelvic ultrasound used for in women?
To examine the uterus, ovaries, and bladder. Ordered for pelvic pain, irregular periods, fibroids, ovarian cysts, fertility concerns, and post-menopausal bleeding, among other reasons.
How do I prepare for a pelvic ultrasound?
For a transabdominal scan: drink 4–5 glasses of water 1 hour before and don’t empty your bladder. For transvaginal only: no full bladder needed. Confirm with your doctor or call (416) 762-3818.
Does it hurt?
The transabdominal portion is painless. A transvaginal scan may involve mild pressure but should not be painful. Tell your technologist immediately if you experience discomfort.
Is pelvic ultrasound covered by OHIP?
Yes, when ordered by a physician. Bring your valid Ontario health card and signed requisition.
Can I get a same-day pelvic ultrasound in Etobicoke?
Often yes — call (416) 762-3818 to check same-day availability at Vitacorp Islington. We do our best to accommodate quickly.
When will I get my results?
Your radiologist’s report is sent to your referring doctor the same day. Your doctor will follow up with you to discuss the findings.
