Can ultrasound examination be done during menstruation

During menstruation, B-ultrasound examination can generally be performed, but the specific feasibility and accuracy of the examination results depend mainly on the purpose of the examination and the type of B-ultrasound. Usually, abdominal ultrasound examination is not affected during menstruation, while vaginal ultrasound examination needs to be judged based on specific circumstances. For most cases, if only routine transabdominal ultrasound examination is performed, such as examining abdominal organs such as liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, or examining the urinary system, the menstrual period will not cause significant interference with the examination results and can be performed normally. You only need to prepare for holding urine and other procedures as required by the doctor before the examination. For situations that require assessment of ovarian basal status, monitoring of follicle count, or diagnosis of certain endometrial lesions, doctors may specifically schedule transvaginal ultrasound examinations on the 2nd to 5th day of the menstrual period. This is because at this time, the endometrium has just shed and there is no interference from dominant follicles, which allows for a clearer observation of the ovarian reserve function, namely the antral follicle count, and a more accurate judgment of the thickness and morphology of the endometrium. It has special value for diagnosing diseases such as endometrial polyps and submucosal fibroids. In this case, as long as the perineum is cleaned properly, transvaginal ultrasound can also be safely performed. The examination probe is strictly disinfected and will not increase the risk of infection. For rare cases, if the menstrual flow is very large or accompanied by severe abdominal pain, fever, and other discomfort symptoms, performing transvaginal ultrasound may increase discomfort or affect the examination field. Doctors may recommend that you first undergo transabdominal ultrasound or wait until the menstrual flow decreases before proceeding with the examination. If it is due to abnormal uterine bleeding, suspected intrauterine residue, or the need to determine the location of pregnancy (such as excluding ectopic pregnancy), even if the menstrual flow is large, doctors may perform transvaginal ultrasound examination based on the urgency of the condition, with sufficient disinfection and communication, to quickly confirm the diagnosis.

Before undergoing an ultrasound examination, it is recommended that you inform the doctor in advance that you are in your menstrual period, and explain the specific amount of menstruation and whether you have any discomfort such as abdominal pain. The doctor will select the most suitable type and timing of ultrasound examination for you based on your specific examination purpose. After the examination, pay attention to keeping the perineum clean, change sanitary pads frequently, avoid sexual activity and baths to prevent infection. If there is worsening abdominal pain, fever, or significant increase in vaginal bleeding after examination, medical attention should be sought promptly.