Private Pelvic Ultrasound Scan for Ovarian Screening

Ovarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer among women in the UK and it mainly affects women over the age of 50. Signs are not easy to spot, so if you are concerned about irregular symptoms, or have a family history of cancer, it may be a good idea to have a regular pelvic ultrasound scan to screen for ovarian cancer. 

What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Early symptoms can include the following: 

• Feeling bloated or a swollen abdomen
• Pain or tenderness in your abdomen or pelvic area 
• No appetite or feeling full quickly after eating
• Abnormal bleeding
• Back pain
• Passing urine more often or feeling an urgent need to pee 
• Feeling tired all the time 
• Constipation or diarrhoea 
• Losing weight without trying 
• Pain during sex

It’s important to know that these symptoms are not necessarily a sign that you have ovarian cancer. They can frequently be associated with other conditions, such as endometriosis, fibroids or ovarian cysts. However, if you have been experiencing any of these symptoms for a while, it’s always a good idea to get them checked out by your doctor or specialist, or to make an appointment to have an ultrasound scan. 

What is the role of an ultrasound scan in ovarian screening?  

We are leading experts in women’s health and can check for any abnormalities in your ovaries, as part of a comprehensive pelvic scan, which also includes an examination of your womb, fallopian tubes and the surrounding structures. 

A detailed ultrasound scan can detect if there are any changes in your ovaries, including the presence of cysts. Early detection is important as it can help prevent anything out of the ordinary from becoming more serious. 

What other tests are used in ovarian screening?

We usually recommend a blood test in conjunction with the ultrasound scan. This will check for the presence of a protein called CA125, which is made by some ovarian cancers. However, the protein is often found in other conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids, so it’s not recommended as a stand-alone test. 

If we find any abnormalities our team of experts can guide you towards further tests - such as a CT scan or an MRI - and help you plan the next stages of your treatment. 

We always recommend regular screening, particularly if you are in a high risk category, as early detection and diagnosis is often key to successful cancer treatment. 

What happens during a pelvic ultrasound scan?

We will talk through the procedure with you at the start of your appointment, and go through your medical and family history. Our appointments are around 30 minutes, so you don’t feel rushed and are able to relax. 

During the ultrasound, you’ll be asked to lie back in the examination chair and a gel covered probe will be gently inserted into your vagina. You should feel no pain, just minor movements of the probe as we carefully examine your pelvic organs, capturing detailed images in 3D and 4D. 

We will talk you through what we see on the screen and also leave plenty of time for discussion and questions afterwards. It’s very rare, but if any complications are detected, we will be able to advise on any necessary tests or further investigations. 

Make an appointment for a private pelvic ultrasound scan for ovarian screening

No referral is needed for a pelvic ultrasound scan for ovarian screening at our London clinic. If you would like to make an appointment please call 020 7244 4200 or make an appointment online.