Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Perform a transvaginal ultrasound scan in cases of suspected miscarriage when a woman presents with bleeding or other symptoms and signs of early pregnancy complications and has:
- pain,
- a pregnancy of 6 weeks' gestation or more,
- or a pregnancy of uncertain gestation.
This scan is offered to identify the location of the pregnancy and to determine whether there is a fetal pole and heartbeat, which are critical for diagnosing viability or miscarriage.
If a transvaginal ultrasound scan is unacceptable to the woman, a transabdominal ultrasound scan may be considered, although it has limitations.
Additionally, transvaginal ultrasound is used to measure crown–rump length or mean gestational sac diameter to aid diagnosis, with follow-up scans recommended if initial findings are inconclusive.