Is fasting required for a transabdominal pelvic ultrasound?

Gynecological B-mode ultrasound (B-ultrasound) is a very common imaging modality used in the diagnosis of gynecological conditions, offering significant diagnostic value for diseases involving the uterus, ovaries, and pelvis.

Is fasting required before a uterine B-ultrasound?

A uterine B-ultrasound—clinically referred to as a gynecological B-ultrasound—does not require fasting, as food intake does not affect the accuracy of the results. However, if an abdominal gynecological color Doppler ultrasound is scheduled, bladder filling (i.e., holding urine) is necessary. In contrast, blood tests, abdominal B-ultrasound, upper abdominal CT, upper abdominal MRI, and gastroscopy all require fasting. For transabdominal gynecological ultrasound, bladder filling is required; however, it is not needed for transvaginal ultrasound.

B-ultrasound can assess uterine size, endometrial thickness and echogenicity, ovarian size, and pelvic anatomy. It helps diagnose various gynecological conditions, including uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, and endometritis. Additionally, B-ultrasound can detect pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), pelvic fluid accumulation, ovarian cysts, and adnexal inflammation. As a routine gynecological examination, B-ultrasound offers high diagnostic accuracy, substantial clinical relevance, and ease of performance. However, for abdominal B-ultrasound, adequate bladder filling is essential to clearly visualize intrauterine structures.

Gynecological ultrasound is a widely used, painless, and noninvasive diagnostic tool capable of identifying common structural gynecological disorders. When clinically indicated, pelvic CT may be employed for comprehensive evaluation. Nevertheless, for suspected ectopic pregnancy, transvaginal ultrasound demonstrates higher diagnostic accuracy. For women presenting with abnormal uterine bleeding, abdominal or transrectal gynecological ultrasound is recommended. We hope this information is helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!