What’s the difference between a pelvic and abdominal ultrasound? Pelvic vs Abdominal Ultrasounds: When and Why They’re Used

Ultrasound scans are safe, painless tools that help doctors see inside your body. But not all ultrasounds are the same. Two common types are pelvic ultrasounds and abdominal ultrasounds. They sound similar, but they serve different purposes. If you’ve been told you need one, you might wonder which one is right for your symptoms. Here's how to tell the difference and when each is used.

Pelvic vs Abdominal Ultrasound | Key Differences & When Each Is Used

A pelvic scan focuses on the lower part of the belly. It looks at organs like the uterus, ovaries, bladder, or prostate. It’s often used for female health checks or to investigate pelvic pain.

An abdominal ultrasound is used for abdominal imaging. It checks organs like the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, and stomach. It’s helpful when you have upper belly pain, nausea, or other digestive problems.

Pelvic vs Abdominal Scans | Understanding Ultrasound Types Explained

Here’s what each ultrasound helps your doctor see:

Pelvic Ultrasound

• Uterus and ovaries (for women)
• Prostate (for men)
• Bladder
• Fallopian tubes
• Pelvic masses or cysts
• Causes of irregular periods or pelvic pain

Abdominal Ultrasound

• Liver and gallbladder
• Kidneys
• Pancreas
• Spleen
• Aorta
• Signs of infection, blockages, or organ damage

Ultrasound Comparison: Pelvic vs Abdominal Imaging

Key differences between pelvic and abdominal ultrasounds:

• Area scanned: Pelvic focuses lower; abdominal scans higher.
• Prep needed: Pelvic scans often require a full bladder; abdominal imaging may require fasting.
• Purpose: Pelvic ultrasounds are used for reproductive health; abdominal ultrasounds are for digestive and urinary system checks.
• Approach: A pelvic scan may be done externally or with a vaginal probe; abdominal scans are external only.

Pelvic or Abdominal Ultrasound? | Know Which Scan You Need

It depends on your symptoms. Here are examples to help you understand:

• If you have lower belly pain, abnormal periods, or are pregnant, a pelvic scan is likely.
• If you have upper belly pain, liver issues, or kidney problems, an abdominal ultrasound is more suitable.

Ultrasound Differences Explained | Pelvic vs Abdominal Imaging Uses

Doctors may also use both scans together if they suspect issues in more than one area. That’s common when pain or symptoms don’t clearly point to a single cause. Combining scans helps give a full picture of what’s happening inside the body.

Choosing Between Pelvic and Abdominal Ultrasounds | What to Know

Not sure what to expect? Here’s how to prepare:

• For a pelvic ultrasound, drink water ahead of time and don’t empty your bladder. This helps show clearer images.
• For an abdominal scan, you may need to avoid eating for several hours. A full stomach can block the view of some organs.

Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions before your scan.

Abdominal Imaging vs Pelvic Scans | A Complete Ultrasound Guide

You don’t need to feel nervous. Both types of scans are:

• Non-invasive
• Radiation-free
• Done in under 30 minutes
• Performed by trained ultrasound technicians

You’ll lie down, and a small amount of gel is used to help the device glide and get a clear image.

What Each Ultrasound Shows | Pelvic vs Abdominal Scan Results

Your doctor will review the images and explain what was found. Sometimes, results are ready the same day. In other cases, they may take a day or two, especially if a specialist reviews them.

Pelvic vs Abdominal Ultrasounds | What Patients Should Understand

Here’s a quick way to compare the two:

Need to book an ultrasound?

If you’re experiencing pain or symptoms and need imaging, here are some ways to take action:

• Book ultrasound appointment near me
• Visit a pelvic ultrasound test clinic
• Contact an abdominal imaging center nearby
• Compare pelvic and abdominal ultrasound services
• Look for diagnostic ultrasound providers
• Ask about ultrasound screening for pelvic pain
• Schedule abdominal ultrasound today
• Book a pelvic scan for female health check
• Get an abdominal scan for pain diagnosis
• Find ultrasound clinic near me

While Canadian Diagnostic Network provides specialized care, many reputable clinics offer similar treatments. Always seek multiple opinions before deciding on treatment.

Additional information: