Written by

Tamatha Hazen

October 29, 2025

Edited by

Tara Farmer

Pelvic ultrasound cost

A pelvic ultrasound costs $100 to $600 on average for patients without insurance. A transvaginal ultrasound costs $250 to $600 to evaluate reproductive organs, while a transrectal ultrasounds cost $275 to $600 for prostate evaluation.

With insurance, pelvic ultrasound costs can be as low as $20 to $400, depending on your plan and co-pay amount.

Hospital imaging fees for a pelvic ultrasound can reach $2,000 to $3,200. Outpatient and independent imaging centers usually offer lower prices. Many providers offer discounts, financial assistance, or special self-pay rates for patients without insurance.

Pelvic sonogram cost factors

Many variables affect the final pelvic ultrasound cost:

• Scan complexity: External transducer exams are less expensive than more complex and invasive transvaginal or transrectal exams.

• Type of facility: Hospital outpatient departments tend to have higher prices than standalone imaging centers or independent clinics, even for the same test.

• Location: Ultrasound prices can fluctuate greatly depending on where you live. Larger cities and certain states often have higher rates for imaging services than small towns or rural areas.

• Extra fees and billing: Some providers bundle all costs ("global billing"), while others charge separately for the scan, interpretation, and facility use. Always ask if the quoted price covers everything.

• Insurance coverage: Your health insurance plan directly shapes what you'll owe. Meeting your deductible, having a low co-pay, or using an in-network provider will often lead to a lower out-of-pocket bill.

What is a pelvic ultrasound?

A pelvic ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the organs and tissues within your lower abdomen and pelvis. Doctors commonly use it to assess structures such as the bladder, uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and prostate.

What does a pelvic ultrasound show?

A pelvic ultrasound produces real-time images of pelvic organs and blood flow. In women, it shows the uterus, ovaries, cervix, fallopian tubes, and bladder. In men, it displays the bladder, prostate gland, and surrounding tissues. The test also reveals the size, shape, and positioning of these organs.

Signs of a bad pelvic ultrasound

A pelvic ultrasound can sometimes uncover medical issues that may need further evaluation or treatment, including:

• Abnormal growths

• Thickened endometrial lining

• Fluid in the pelvis

• Enlarged or irregular ovaries

• Unusual masses in the uterus, ovaries, or bladder

• Signs of ectopic pregnancy

• Signs of pelvic inflammatory disease

• Prostate abnormalities in men

• Poor blood flow in pelvic organs or evidence of blockage

If your pelvic ultrasound reveals any of these issues, your provider may recommend more imaging, blood tests, or referrals as next steps.

Pelvic ultrasound procedure

During a pelvic ultrasound, a technician applies a clear gel to your lower abdomen or pelvic area to help sound waves travel efficiently. A handheld device called a transducer is gently moved over your skin, sending and receiving sound waves that are converted into images on a monitor. You'll be awake, relaxed, and comfortable throughout the entire exam.

In certain cases, your medical provider may order an internal ultrasound for a closer look. This includes a transvaginal ultrasound or transrectal ultrasound. For these internal scans, some mild pressure or discomfort may occur while the probe is inserted but pain is uncommon, and the procedure is over quickly.

Pelvic ultrasound vs. transvaginal ultrasound

Pelvic ultrasound is a broad term for scans of the organs within the pelvis using different approaches. The most common method uses a transducer on the outer surface of the abdomen. When more detail is needed, a doctor may order a transvaginal ultrasound with a slim probe placed in the vagina to see the uterus and ovaries more clearly.

A transrectal approach involves a probe gently inserted into the rectum to provide detailed images of the prostate and nearby structures. These specialized techniques are chosen when a standard external scan doesn't provide enough information for your diagnosis.

Pelvic ultrasound FAQs

Does pelvic inflammatory disease show on ultrasound?

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can sometimes be seen on an ultrasound if it causes visible changes, such as swollen fallopian tubes, fluid pockets, or abscesses in the pelvis. However, a normal ultrasound does not rule out PID, since mild cases may not create detectable changes on imaging.

Can a pelvic ultrasound detect cancer?

A pelvic ultrasound can sometimes detect suspicious masses or abnormal growths that may be cancerous, such as tumors in the uterus, ovaries, or prostate. However, it cannot confirm cancer; a biopsy or additional imaging is needed for a definite diagnosis.

How long does a pelvic ultrasound take?

A pelvic ultrasound takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete. The appointment may be slightly longer if additional images or different approaches, like transvaginal or transrectal ultrasound, are needed.

Can you eat before a pelvic ultrasound?

For most pelvic ultrasounds, you can eat and drink normally. Some tests may require you to have a full bladder or follow specific instructions from your provider.

Can you get a pelvic ultrasound on your period?

Yes, you can have a pelvic ultrasound during your period, and menstruation usually does not affect the test or its results. If you are scheduled for a transvaginal ultrasound, it can still be performed while you are on your period, though you may want to let your provider know so they can accommodate your comfort and preferences.

Does a pelvic ultrasound hurt?

A pelvic ultrasound usually does not hurt. You might feel mild pressure on your abdomen or some brief discomfort during an internal transvaginal or transrectal scan. If something feels uncomfortable, tell your provider so they can help you feel at ease.

Questions to ask your healthcare provider

Before your pelvic ultrasound, it's helpful to talk with your healthcare provider so you know what to expect, understand the results, and feel prepared. Consider asking the following questions:

• What is the reason for recommending this pelvic ultrasound?

• Will I need to prepare in any special way, such as fasting or arriving with a full bladder?

• What type of pelvic ultrasound will I have: transabdominal, transvaginal, or transrectal?

• How long will the procedure take, and when will I get the results?

• Are there any risks or potential complications with this test?

• Will the ultrasound detect the specific issue or symptoms I've described?

• Who will interpret the results and explain them to me?

• Will I need any follow-up tests or procedures based on what you find?

• Will this be covered by my insurance, and what are my expected out-of-pocket costs?

• How should I contact your office if I have more questions after the test?