What is ultrasound used for?

Ultrasound images complement other forms of scans and are widely used for many different parts of the body. They can also be used to study blood flow and to detect any narrowing or blockage of blood vessels, for example, in the neck.

Ultrasound is also used for intimate examinations; for example, of the prostate gland in men or the womb or ovaries in women. For some of these examinations, it may be necessary to place a small ultrasound probe in the vagina or the rectum to look at internal structures. If you are having an intimate examination the radiologist or sonographer will describe the procedure to you before and seek your informed consent.