Learn more about your upcoming exam
Your provider may recommend a diagnostic imaging exam to help better understand your symptoms or monitor your health. The information below explains what happens during specific tests, how to prepare, and what you can expect on the day of your appointment.
If you have questions before your visit, please reach out to your ordering provider.
Transvaginal ultrasound
A transvaginal ultrasound provides detailed images of the uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic organs to help evaluate a variety of women’s health concerns.
A transvaginal ultrasound is an internal ultrasound exam where a small ultrasound probe (transducer) is gently placed into the vagina to take images of the pelvic organs.
Because the probe is closer to the uterus and ovaries, it can produce higher-resolution and more detailed images than an abdominal ultrasound.
A pelvic ultrasound is used to look at the uterus and ovaries and may help your provider evaluate symptoms or monitor known conditions. It can give more detailed information than an external ultrasound alone.
For this exam:
- You will be asked to empty your bladder before the procedure
- You will change as needed and remove underwear for the exam
- You will be covered to maintain privacy and dignity
- A slim ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the vagina
The probe is:
- Cleaned and disinfected before use
- Covered with a protective sheath
- Lubricated to make insertion more comfortable
The procedure is usually brief and typically causes only mild discomfort, similar to a routine internal pelvic exam. No speculum is used.
Most patients describe the exam as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. You may feel pressure during the exam, but it is generally well tolerated and completed quickly.
If you experience discomfort at any point, you can ask the provider to pause or stop the exam.
Yes. A medical chaperone is offered and may be present during the exam if you choose.
Yes. Before the exam begins, you will be asked to sign an education notification form confirming that you:
- Understand the nature of the procedure
- Received information about why the scan is being performed
- Had the opportunity to ask questions
- Understand you can change your mind at any time
- Were offered a medical chaperone
- Understand you can stop the exam at any time
Yes. You have the right to stop the exam at any time. If you feel uncomfortable, you can speak up and the sonographer or provider will stop the procedure.
If you have questions before your scheduled ultrasound, you should contact your ordering (referring) provider.
Testicular ultrasound
A testicular ultrasound provides detailed images of the testicles and surrounding tissues to help evaluate a variety of conditions affecting the scrotum and reproductive system.
A testicular ultrasound, also called a scrotal ultrasound, uses sound waves to create images of the testicles and surrounding tissues. It is the primary imaging test used to evaluate the testicles, epididymis (the tubes that collect and store sperm), and scrotum.
Your provider may order a testicular ultrasound to help evaluate symptoms such as:
- Testicular or scrotal pain
- Swelling or lumps
- Injury or trauma
- Changes in the size or appearance of the testicles
- Other conditions affecting the testicles or surrounding tissues
The exam helps your provider better understand the cause of your symptoms and determine appropriate treatment or follow-up care.
During the exam:
- You will be asked to remove your pants and underwear
- You will be covered to maintain privacy and dignity
- You will lie on your back on an examination table
- Your scrotum will be exposed for the ultrasound
A technologist or sonographer will apply a clear gel to the skin and move a small handheld device called a transducer over the scrotum to capture images.
A testicular ultrasound is generally painless. You may feel mild pressure from the transducer as it moves over the area.
If your scrotum or testicles are already sensitive because of an injury or medical condition, you may experience some discomfort during the exam.
The length of the exam can vary, but most testicular ultrasounds are completed within a short period of time. Your technologist can provide more specific timing when you arrive for your appointment.
Yes. A medical chaperone is offered and may be present during the exam if you choose.
Yes. Before the exam begins, you will be asked to sign an education notification form confirming that you:
- Understand the nature of the procedure
- Received information about the exam and why it is being performed
- Had the opportunity to ask questions
- Understand you can change your mind at any time
- Were offered a medical chaperone
- Understand you can stop the exam at any time
Yes. You have the right to stop the exam at any time. If you feel uncomfortable or wish to end the procedure, simply tell the technologist or provider.
If you have questions before your scheduled ultrasound, please contact your ordering (referring) provider. They can help explain the purpose of the exam and address any concerns you may have.
Echocardiogram
You have been referred for an Echocardiogram, an ultrasound of your heart. Ultrasound imaging of the heart uses sounds waves to produce pictures of the function and structure of the heart. It is the primary method used to help evaluate disorders of the heart and its valves.
For an echocardiogram, you will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up and wear a gown for the exam. The room will be darkened, as the ultrasound images are in black and white and require low to no lights for the sonographer to be able to see clearly. During the exam, you will lie on an examination table, covered with your gown and towel, while a technologist applies a clear gel to your chest. The gel allows for a small handheld device, called a transducer, over the chest wall. You may feel some pressure, especially over the area of the ribs. Images are taken on front of the left chest, under the left breast, and under the sternum area.
There are many different types of echocardiograms. Your provider will order the most appropriate type based on your condition.
This is the most common type of study. It also includes special sound waves that emit different pitches, called Doppler waveforms. These waveforms can give us more information about how blood flows through the heart.
A combination of the echocardiogram with a stress test. There is an echocardiogram before and after you walk on a treadmill. This checks your coronary arteries and your heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently. This also better evaluates heart valve disease.
The sonographer will inject a contrast dye into your blood vessels. This contrast dye shows up brightly on the ultrasound to allow better views of your heart’s structure.
The sonographer will inject a saline solution into your blood vessels. This saline solution shows up on the ultrasound to asses the septum between each side of the heart to make sure blood is moving in the correct direction.
A Cardiologist performs this procedure. You are given a throat numbing medication and sedating medications to remain calm and comfortable during the test. The provider guides a flexible tube with a transducer down your throat to take an ultrasound of your heart from inside of your body.
Yes. A medical chaperone is offered and may be present during the exam if you choose.
Yes. You may request a male or female technologist to have preform your scan.
Yes. You have the right to stop the exam at any time. If you feel uncomfortable, you can speak up and the tech or provider will stop the procedure.
If you have questions before your scheduled echocardiogram, you should contact your ordering (referring) provider.