To reduce health risks, it is important to make sure that you undergo checkups and procedures. If you are starting to notice certain and symptoms, you will be required to have procedures. One of which is the transvaginal ultrasound. This ultrasound test makes use of high-frequency waves that will then create images of what’s found inside. It provides the images of the internal organs. So, how much does transvaginal cost? The average transvaginal ultrasound price varies depending on a wide range of factors.
When Is the Transvaginal Ultrasound Performed?
There are different reasons as to why your doctor may have to recommend for you to undergo such procedure. For instance, if you are experiencing vaginal bleeding and it is unexplained, the only way to find out the cause of the problem is to undergo the ultrasound test. If you are experiencing pelvic pain, this is also the procedure used. Even women who are suffering ectopic pregnancy may have to take ultrasound. To check for cysts, transvaginal ultrasound test might be recommended.
There are also cases where you will have to take this procedure. For instance, this is a known way to monitor the fetus’ heartbeat, examine the cervix, the placenta and to known the reason behind abnormal bleeding.
Average Transvaginal Ultrasound Price
In undergoing this procedure, you have to factor in the cost. How much does transvaginal ultrasound cost? The average transvaginal ultrasound price varies depending as to whether you have a health insurance and it covers this procedure. If your health insurance covers this procedure, you do not have to pay for the most expensive cost. At the least, you will have to shoulder the cost of copay ranging from $10 to $50. But if you do not have any health insurance, you can expect a much higher transvaginal ultrasound price. The cost ranges from $250 to $1,100.
In undergoing this procedure, apart from the transvaginal ultrasound price you also have to factor in the additional costs that you will incur. You may have to undergo a biopsy which can add thousands of dollars into the current cost. Biopsy is recommended if the doctor needs to take a sample tissue. But on a positive note, the average transvaginal ultrasound price can be further reduced since there are discounts available. You can access the information provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services and search for clinics that offer discounts. There are also some hospitals and centers that provide discount up to 30% for cash-paying patients.
Looking for Transvaginal Ultrasound
Since this is a sensitive procedure, you have to find a reliable doctor where you can undergo this procedure. You can ask your family doctor for a referral. You can either go to an imaging center or hospital. The American College of Radiology provides a locator where you can search using zip codes. This makes it easier for you to search for centers or facilities that are ACR accredited in conducting such procedure. Make sure that the radiologist is certified by the American Board of Radiology.
Preparing for the Procedure
Before you subject yourself to the procedure, you have to prepare. It does not require that much preparation. When you have finally arrived at the hospital or center, you just have to remove your clothes and wear the gown. You have to listen on what the doctor instructs you to do. There are cases where the doctor might instruct you to drink 32 ounces of water 30 mins to 1 hour before the ultrasound test is conducted. If you are on your period, you have to remove the tampon.
What happens during the procedure? You can just lie down and put your feet in the stirrups. The ultrasound wand is then covered using a condom and a lubricating gel. This is then inserted into your vagina. As it is inserted, you will feel some pressure, but do not worry. It is the same with pap smear. When the wand is already inside, it will start transmitting photos and the doctor can see them through a monitor.
Through this procedure, your doctor can see the images and these are then analyzed by radiologists. The results will then be sent to the doctor. Transvaginal ultrasound can be used to diagnose different conditions including cancer, cysts, fibroids, pelvic infection, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, fetal birth defects.
In taking this procedure, there are no risks associated. Of course, it is natural for you to experience some discomfort especially since something will be inserted inside and the test wil
l take about 30 to 1 hour. But by undergoing this procedure, your doctor can properly diagnose the problem. In just 24 hours, the results are ready. If ever the results aren’t clear, you may have to repeat the test again.
There are instances where patients might experience severe discomfort. If that is the case and you really cannot tolerate the discomfort, the doctor may have a transabdominal ultrasound. Your doctor will apply get on your stomach. Using a device, it can start seeing the pelvic organs. But over-all, this is a safe and risk-free procedure, patients who went with this procedure did not experience any major problem except for minor discomfort. Once the results are out, you can now discuss with your doctor about his evaluations and diagnosis. If there are problems or abnormalities, it is much easier to provide cure and treatment.
Abnormalities in the Result
If there is any abnormal result, it can be attributed to different conditions. For instance, some if it can be attributed to cancers of the uterus, vagina and ovaries, birth defects, infections, twisting of ovaries, etc. The results may vary from one person to another. But if your doctor discovers something abnormal, you should not panic. Discuss the problem with the problem and allow your doctor to explain the results to you.