10 Signs of a Bad Pelvic Ultrasound
The signs of a bad pelvic ultrasound shows poor quality images or incomplete assessment. It can lead to missed findings, unclear reporting and delayed diagnosis. Knowing the signs helps women understand whether their pelvic ultrasound scan was performed properly.
A pelvic ultrasound scan is an essential imaging test used to examine the uterus, ovaries and surrounding pelvic structures. When performed correctly, it provides clear views and accurate measurements that guide diagnosis and treatment. However, some scans may be incomplete or technically poor, especially if the preparation, image acquisition or reporting is not carried out to a high standard. Recognising the signs of a bad pelvic ultrasound helps women understand when a repeat scan or second opinion may be appropriate. This applies to both a transabdominal ultrasound for pelvic concerns and a transvaginal pelvic scan.
10 key signs of a Bad Pelvic Ultrasound Every Woman Should Know
Blurry or unclear images where organs cannot be identified properly
Pelvic ultrasound images should be sharp enough to identify the uterus, ovaries, endometrium and adnexa. Blurry or unfocused images reduce diagnostic accuracy and make it difficult to confirm whether the organs appear normal. Poor resolution can occur due to incorrect settings, inadequate probe pressure or lack of patient preparation.
Missing views of key structures such as the uterus, ovaries, endometrium or adnexa
A complete pelvic ultrasound must show all major structures the uterus, ovaries, endometrial lining and adnexa. When these views are missing, the scan becomes incomplete. This is one of the clearest signs of a bad pelvic ultrasound because missing structures can hide cysts, fibroids or other abnormalities that should have been detected.
Incorrect or incomplete measurements of the uterus, ovaries or endometrial lining
Accurate measurement of the uterus, ovarian size and endometrial thickness is essential. Incomplete or incorrect measurements reduce the value of the scan and affect clinical decision making. Good ultrasound reporting should include all key measurements in a consistent format.
No Doppler assessment when blood flow evaluation is clinically required
Some symptoms require assessment of blood flow, especially when ruling out ovarian torsion, assessing ovarian cysts or understanding vascular changes. If Doppler imaging is not performed when indicated, the scan may fail to provide essential diagnostic information.
Poorly filled bladder during a transabdominal scan, leading to distorted views
A full bladder is crucial during a transabdominal ultrasound for pelvic assessment because it pushes the bowel out of the way and creates an acoustic window. If the bladder is not filled adequately, the views become distorted, leading to unclear images and missed findings.
Failure to perform a transvaginal scan when clinically indicated
A transvaginal pelvic ultrasound scan provides detailed views that cannot be obtained through the abdomen. When a transvaginal scan is clinically indicated but not performed, essential details may be missed. This limits the reliability of the scan and can delay diagnosis.
Not documenting both ovaries clearly or reporting one ovary as “not seen” without explanation
Both ovaries should be clearly imaged and documented. Reporting an ovary as “not seen” without explanation is a sign of a poor-quality scan. Good practice involves adjusting technique or changing approach until the ovaries are visualised or a clear reason is provided.
No images captured at all for certain key findings mentioned in the written report
If a written ultrasound report mentions cysts, fibroids, free fluid or any abnormality, corresponding images must be included. When the report contains findings but the images do not support them, the scan lacks transparency and reliability.
Lack of correlation between symptoms and findings because the scan was rushed or superficial
A high-quality pelvic scan connects the woman’s symptoms with the ultrasound findings. When the scan appears rushed or superficial, symptoms may not be addressed properly. This results in vague impressions rather than clear clinical answers.
The report is vague, incomplete or uses unclear phrases such as “likely normal” without proper justification
A pelvic ultrasound report must be clear, structured and specific. Phrases like “likely normal” or “probably fine” without explanation are warning signs. A vague report often reflects a poor scan or incomplete review of the images.
What This Means for You
A reliable ultrasound for pelvic health should offer clear images, logical reporting and a full assessment of all key pelvic structures. When any of the issues above appear in your pelvic ultrasound scan, it may indicate that the study was not performed to the standard required for accurate diagnosis.
When You Should Consider a Repeat Scan
A repeat pelvic ultrasound may be needed when:
- The images are unclear or incomplete
- Important structures were not visualised
- The findings do not match your symptoms
- The report lacks detail or measurements
- You are unsure whether the scan was performed correctly
A second opinion from an experienced ultrasound specialist can help ensure that no important abnormality is missed.
How These Issues Can Be Resolved
Most problems with a bad pelvic ultrasound can be corrected by:
- Repeating the scan with proper bladder preparation
- Using a transvaginal pelvic ultrasound scan for better detail
- Ensuring Doppler assessment is included when clinically required
- Scan at Ovara Health with advanced equipment and experienced sonographers
A correctly performed pelvic ultrasound provides the clarity needed to guide treatment safely and confidently.
Support at Ovara Health
If you are concerned that your pelvic ultrasound scan was unclear or incomplete, Ovara Health can provide a repeat pelvic ultrasound scan with high-resolution imaging and specialist assessment. To arrange a consultation, book an appointment and get expert pelvic care.