What can be detected by ultrasound examination of the uterus

Ultrasound examination of the uterus is mainly used to observe the size, shape, position, muscle layer echo, and endometrial condition of the uterus. It can detect uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, abnormal position of intrauterine devices, and some congenital uterine malformations.

1. Uterine fibroids:

Ultrasound can clearly display whether there are well-defined hypoechoic or isoechoic masses in the uterine muscle layer, which is the main basis for diagnosing uterine fibroids. Through ultrasound, doctors can determine the number, size, and location of fibroids, such as those located beneath the serosa, muscle wall, or submucosa. For smaller fibroids, ultrasound can also detect them and help evaluate their impact on the morphology of the uterine cavity. If the fibroid is large, ultrasound can also observe whether there is any degeneration inside, such as cystic changes or calcification, providing reference for whether treatment is needed in the future.

2. Uterine adenomyosis:

When the endometrial glands and stroma invade the uterine muscle layer, ultrasound can show a spherical enlargement of the uterus, uneven echoes in the muscle layer, and sometimes point like or cord like areas without echoes. Patients often experience progressively worsening dysmenorrhea and increased menstrual flow. Ultrasound examination can help distinguish between adenomyosis and uterine fibroids, as their ultrasound features are different. For diffuse adenomyosis, ultrasound shows diffuse small echogenic changes within the muscle layer, while focal adenomyosis may present as ill defined nodules, which can help doctors develop treatment plans.

3. Endometrial polyps:

During ultrasound examination, endometrial polyps usually appear as high echogenicity masses with clear boundaries inside the uterine cavity, often oval or tongue shaped in shape, and sometimes the pedicle can be seen connected to the endometrium. Through ultrasound, the size and location of polyps can be measured to determine whether they affect the shape of the uterine cavity. For women with abnormal symptoms of uterine bleeding, ultrasound is the preferred method for screening endometrial polyps. If the polyp is large or causes symptoms, the ultrasound results can provide positioning basis for subsequent hysteroscopic surgery.

4. Abnormal position of intrauterine device:

Women who have placed intrauterine devices can clearly display whether the position of the device in the uterine cavity is normal through ultrasound. Under normal circumstances, the contraceptive device should be located in the center of the uterine cavity, about 2 centimeters away from the bottom of the uterus. Ultrasound can detect situations where the contraceptive device has moved downwards, been trapped, broken, or ectopic to the uterine muscle layer or even the pelvic cavity. If the position of the contraceptive device is abnormal, it may lead to contraceptive failure or cause symptoms such as abdominal pain and abnormal bleeding. Ultrasound examination can promptly detect the problem and guide the removal or adjustment.

5. Congenital uterine malformation:

B-ultrasound can detect some congenital uterine developmental abnormalities, such as mediastinal uterus, bicornuate uterus, or unicornuate uterus. Under ultrasound, a longitudinal partition can be seen in the uterine cavity of the mediastinal uterus, dividing it into left and right parts; A bicornuate uterus is characterized by a bicornuate protrusion at the bottom of the uterus. These deformities may affect fertility or lead to recurrent miscarriages. B-ultrasound examination can preliminarily evaluate the morphology of the uterus. For complex malformations, further combination with three-dimensional ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging may be necessary to clarify the diagnosis. Before performing a uterine ultrasound examination, it is recommended that women empty their bladder to obtain clearer images. Stay relaxed during the examination and cooperate with the doctor to change positions. If abnormalities are found, do not be overly anxious, and make a comprehensive judgment based on clinical symptoms and other examination results. Daily attention to maintaining a regular schedule, balanced diet, and regular gynecological examinations can help detect and address uterine related health issues early on.