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Women's Health Ultrasound

Endometriosis ScreeningUltrasound Scan in Dublin

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus, known as endometrium, starts to grow outside the uterus. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are vital in managing endometriosis.

Price:€170|Medical Card:€150|Combined Pelvic + Abdominal:€270

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Understanding Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus, known as endometrium, starts to grow outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, and other organs within the pelvis. Endometriosis can cause a range of symptoms, including pelvic pain, severe menstrual cramps, pain during intercourse, and infertility.

Despite being a common condition, there is often a significant diagnostic delay. We do not know who will progress, be stable or regress. We do not know enough about the biology of the disease.

The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) guidelines state that “laparoscopy should no longer be considered the gold standard in diagnosis favouring imaging as the first-line investigation.”

What is an Endometriosis Screening Ultrasound Scan?

An Endometriosis Screening Ultrasound Scan is a valuable tool for the diagnosis and staging of endometriosis. This specialised ultrasound examination is designed to detect and evaluate the extent of endometrial tissue growth outside the uterus, providing crucial information for effective treatment planning.

What we may see on ultrasound when endometriosis is present?

  • Uterosacral ligament nodules
  • Rectosigmoid colon nodules
  • Endometriomas on the ovaries
  • Bladder nodules
  • Vaginal wall nodules (not very common)
  • Pouch of Douglas obliteration
  • Peritoneal surface projections

Diagnosing endometriosis early is crucial for effective management and to improve the quality of life for those affected.

Endometrioma on the ovary

Endometrioma on the ovary

Endometriotic nodule in the pouch of Douglas

Endometriotic nodule in the pouch of Douglas

Rectosigmoid endometriotic nodule

Rectosigmoid endometriotic nodule

Important Clinical Note

Just because your ultrasound is normal does not mean you do not have endometriosis.

Why Choose an Endometriosis Screening Ultrasound Scan?

Early detection and accurate diagnosis are vital in managing endometriosis. The ultrasound scan offers several benefits:

Non-Invasive Procedure

Unlike surgical methods, an ultrasound scan does not require any incisions, making it a safer and more comfortable option.

Detailed Imaging

Advanced ultrasound technology provides high-resolution images, enabling the detection of even small abnormalities.

Quick and Convenient

The scan is usually completed within 30 to 60 minutes, and you can return to your daily activities immediately afterward.

No Radiation

Ultrasound uses sound waves instead of radiation, making it a safe choice for repeated use if necessary.

What to Expect

1

Before Your Scan

Preparation checklist:

  • Hydrate: Drink several glasses of water before the transabdominal ultrasound to ensure your bladder is full, which helps produce clearer images.
  • Schedule Appropriately: Timing your scan within a specific phase of your menstrual cycle may be recommended by your doctor for the most accurate assessment.
  • Follow Instructions: Adhere to any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Bowel prep is generally not needed.

2

During the Scan

Transabdominal: A handheld device called a transducer is moved over the lower abdomen to capture images.

Transvaginal: A specially designed transducer is gently inserted into the vagina for a closer view of the reproductive organs.

Both procedures are usually painless, though some slight discomfort may be experienced during the transvaginal ultrasound when it is necessary to use pressure to see organs clearly and to ensure the pelvis is not obliterated by deep infiltrative endometriosis. Our trained Sonographers and compassionate staff are dedicated to ensuring your comfort throughout the process.

Duration: 30-60 minutes

3

After Your Scan

Once the scan is completed, the images will be reviewed by a Consultant Radiologist. You will typically receive your results within a few days. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you and outline any necessary next steps, whether that involves further testing, treatment options, or a management plan for endometriosis.

Why Choose Ultrasound Ireland

Our Sonographers are specialized in endometriosis ultrasound scanning with our state-of-the-art facilities and patient-centered approach. We ensure you receive the highest standard of care. We understand the challenges of living with endometriosis and are committed to providing the support and expertise you need. At Ultrasound Ireland, we prioritize your health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

An endometriosis screening ultrasound is a specialist pelvic scan designed to look for signs of endometriosis. It combines transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound to assess the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding pelvic structures for endometriomas, deep infiltrating endometriosis nodules, and other markers of the condition.
Ultrasound is very effective at detecting endometriomas (chocolate cysts) and deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) nodules. However, superficial peritoneal endometriosis — small deposits on the surface of the peritoneum — can be difficult to visualise. A normal scan does not rule out endometriosis entirely.
We systematically examine the uterus, both ovaries, the uterosacral ligaments, the rectosigmoid colon, the bladder wall, the vaginal wall, the pouch of Douglas, and the peritoneal surfaces. This thorough approach follows current international guidelines for endometriosis imaging.
For medical scans, a GP referral is recommended as it provides useful clinical context, but please contact us if you don't have one.
Drink several glasses of water before the transabdominal ultrasound to ensure your bladder is full, which helps produce clearer images. Timing your scan within a specific phase of your menstrual cycle may be recommended by your doctor for the most accurate assessment. Adhere to any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Based on a study by Ferrero et al. (2019) on bowel preparation (BP), the study found no significant difference in diagnostic accuracy for detecting or characterising nodules when using bowel prep compared to no preparation.
Both procedures are usually painless, though some slight discomfort may be experienced during the transvaginal ultrasound when it is necessary to use pressure to see organs clearly and to ensure the pelvis is not obliterated by deep infiltrative endometriosis. Our trained Sonographers and compassionate staff are dedicated to ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
The endometriosis screening scan takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. This is longer than a standard pelvic scan because we perform a systematic, detailed assessment of all relevant pelvic structures.
The sonographer will discuss initial findings with you on the day. Your images are then reviewed by a Consultant Radiologist, and a formal report is sent to your GP or referring doctor within 2-3 working days.

Book Your Endometriosis Screening Ultrasound Scan Today

Take control of your health and well-being. If you are experiencing symptoms or have been advised to undergo screening, contact us today to schedule your Endometriosis Screening Ultrasound Scan. Early detection can make a significant difference, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

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