Pelvic and abdominal ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of organs and soft tissues. Because ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation, it is a safe and non-invasive imaging option for many medical concerns. Depending on your symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend one or both of these studies.
A pelvic ultrasound evaluates structures in the lower abdomen, including the bladder and, in women, the uterus and ovaries. It may also be used to assess reproductive health or investigate pelvic symptoms.
An abdominal ultrasound examines organs such as the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen, helping healthcare providers evaluate a variety of abdominal conditions.
Your healthcare provider may recommend one of these studies to evaluate symptoms or conditions such as:
The type of ultrasound performed depends on your symptoms, medical history, and the area that requires evaluation.
Preparation varies depending on the type of ultrasound being performed.
For a pelvic ultrasound, you may be asked to arrive with a full bladder, as this helps improve image quality.
For an abdominal ultrasound, fasting for several hours before the exam may be recommended so the organs can be seen more clearly.
When your appointment is scheduled, our team will provide instructions specific to your examination and answer any questions about preparing for your visit.
Pelvic and abdominal ultrasounds help healthcare providers evaluate the structure and condition of many internal organs.
Depending on the reason for your exam, these studies may help identify:
The results are reviewed alongside your symptoms and medical history to help determine the most appropriate next steps in your care.
An abdominal ultrasound can also be used to evaluate the abdominal aorta for enlargement, known as an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Screening may be recommended for certain adults based on age, smoking history, and other risk factors.
Whether you're experiencing new symptoms or your healthcare provider has recommended diagnostic imaging, First Medical Center offers convenient access to pelvic and abdominal ultrasound services in Cerritos.
Our team is here to answer your questions, explain any preparation requirements, and help you schedule your appointment with confidence.
Many pelvic ultrasounds performed over the abdomen require a full bladder to improve image quality. Our team will let you know if this applies to your exam when your appointment is scheduled.
Yes, some abdominal ultrasounds require fasting for several hours before the exam. You'll receive specific preparation instructions based on the type of ultrasound you're having.
Yes. If your healthcare provider orders both studies, they can often be completed during the same visit, depending on your imaging needs.
After your ultrasound is completed, the images are interpreted by an experienced teleradiology group. A detailed report is then sent to your referring healthcare provider, who will discuss the results and any recommended next steps with you.