Our services
Deep Endometriosis Ultrasound
At our Women’s Imaging Centre, we’re now accepting referrals for Deep Endometriosis Ultrasound, a specialised scan that provides comprehensive assessment for women experiencing symptoms of endometriosis.
Ultrasound is recommended as the first-line imaging modality for detecting endometriosis. Our dedicated deep endometriosis service is performed by sonographers with advanced skills in identifying and mapping the disease, helping reduce diagnostic delays and supporting your doctor’s decisions around further management and surgical planning.
What is a Deep Endometriosis Ultrasound?
A deep endometriosis ultrasound is a specialised scan performed by a sonographer with advanced training in detecting endometriosis on ultrasound.
The scan involves a detailed transvaginal ultrasound assessment of the pelvic anatomy, used for disease mapping and to estimate the extent of disease. Unlike a standard pelvic ultrasound, a deep endometriosis scan is a more thorough, targeted examination specifically designed to identify the subtle signs of endometriosis, including deep infiltrating disease that can be missed on routine imaging.
Benefits of a dedicated deep endometriosis scan:
- Reduced diagnostic delays
- Fewer repeated transvaginal ultrasounds
- Detailed disease mapping to support clinical decision-making
- Better-informed surgical planning where required
Who might need a Deep Endometriosis Ultrasound?
Your doctor may refer you for a deep endometriosis ultrasound if you have:
- Any clinical suspicion of endometriosis
- A previous diagnosis of endometriosis with worsening symptoms, or a need for updated disease mapping
- Symptoms that may be associated with endometriosis, including but not limited to:
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Dysmenorrhoea (painful periods)
- Ovulation pain
- Dysuria and/or dyschezia (pain with urination or bowel motions)
- Bloating or abdominal distension
- Chronic fatigue
- Infertility
- Any cyclical pain or other associated symptom
Please note: referrals must specifically request a deep endometriosis ultrasound.
About Your Test
Before your appointment
Our friendly staff will guide you through every step and ensure you know what to expect before your scan.
- Where possible, your scan may be timed according to your menstrual cycle, our booking team can advise you on this.
- A full or empty bladder may be requested depending on the type of scan; our team will confirm this when you book.
- Bring any previous pelvic imaging or relevant reports for comparison, if available.
- Let our team know if you have any concerns about a transvaginal examination, and we can discuss alternative options with you.
On the day
- The scan involves a detailed transvaginal ultrasound examination performed by a sonographer with specialised training in endometriosis imaging.
- Your sonographer will systematically assess your pelvic anatomy, including the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures, to look for signs of endometriosis and assess how much of the pelvis is affected.
- The scan may take longer than a standard pelvic ultrasound, given the detailed mapping involved.
- We understand this can be a sensitive examination, and our team is committed to ensuring you feel comfortable, respected, and informed throughout.
After your appointment
- You can return to normal activities immediately.
- Your images will be reviewed by our specialist radiologists, and a detailed report will be sent directly to your referring doctor.
- Results are usually available to your referring doctor within a short timeframe, please discuss your results with your doctor, who is best placed to guide next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. A referral from your GP or specialist is required, and it must specifically request a ‘deep endometriosis ultrasound’.
No. A deep endometriosis ultrasound is a more detailed, targeted assessment performed by sonographers with advanced training, specifically designed to detect and map endometriosis, including deep infiltrating disease that may not be visible on a standard scan.
Yes, a transvaginal ultrasound is required for a comprehensive assessment. Our team understands this can feel confronting for some patients and is happy to discuss what to expect beforehand.
Yes. This scan is suitable for patients with a known diagnosis who have worsening symptoms or who require updated disease mapping, as well as those with a new clinical suspicion of endometriosis.
A deep endometriosis ultrasound typically takes longer than a standard pelvic ultrasound, given the detailed assessment involved. Your booking team can give you a more precise estimate.
Your comfort and care
We understand Endometriosis can be a difficult and often prolonged journey, and we understand how important timely, accurate imaging is to your diagnosis and management.
Our sonographers are experienced in performing deep endometriosis ultrasound with care, discretion, and respect for what can be a sensitive examination.
Our team will take the time to position you carefully and support you throughout the process to make it as comfortable as possible.
The scan itself is quick, and most patients are able to return to their normal activities straight after their appointment.
At South Coast Radiology, we focus on creating a calm and supportive environment where you feel informed, reassured, and well cared for every step of the way.