Private PCOS Ultrasound Scan
Specialist Pelvic Ultrasound Scan for Women Concerned About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
At London Private Ultrasound, we offer a dedicated pelvic ultrasound scan for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), designed to accurately assess ovarian appearance and provide crucial support for diagnosing or monitoring this common hormonal condition. Our expert sonographers offer same-day appointments, provide fast results, and ensure a professional approach for women and teenagers (18+) seeking clarity about their reproductive health.
Whether you're experiencing symptoms like irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, or difficulty conceiving – or you’ve been advised to check for PCOS by your GP or specialist – we are here to help you get clear answers and supportive follow-up options.
What’s Included in Private PCOS Ultrasound Scan?
Private PCOS Ultrasound Scan
Same Day Appointments & Results
- Transabdominal (External) Scan: Performed over your lower abdomen for a broad overview of your uterus and ovaries.
- Transvaginal (Internal) Scan: Offered, with your consent and if clinically appropriate, for highly detailed imaging essential for assessing ovarian appearance (follicles) and volume, crucial for PCOS.
- Detailed Expert Assessment
- Same-Day Expert Report: You will receive a detailed written report of all findings, explained clearly, typically within 24 hours
- Guidance on Next Steps: Clear recommendations for follow-up, including potential referrals or further investigations, based on your results.
Book Online using the calendar below
If you are unable to make a payment online, please call our office to book your appointment tel: 020 7101 3377. We’re here to assist you 7 days a week, 9am - 7pm.
*Please select a location + time to proceed with the booking*
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About Private PCOS Ultrasound Scan
Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Pelvic Health
What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common and complex hormonal condition affecting approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age in the UK. It is a leading cause of irregular periods and subfertility, but its impact extends beyond reproductive health, often influencing metabolic well-being.
PCOS is typically characterised by a combination of at least two of the following three criteria (known as the Rotterdam criteria):
- Irregular or Absent Periods (Oligo- or Anovulation): This indicates infrequent or no ovulation.
- Clinical or Biochemical Signs of Hyperandrogenism: Symptoms such as excess facial or body hair (hirsutism), acne, or scalp hair thinning, or elevated levels of male hormones (androgens) in blood tests.
- Polycystic Ovaries on Ultrasound Scan: This refers to the appearance of numerous small follicles (often described as "cysts") around the periphery of the ovaries.
Important Note: You do not need to have visible "cysts" on your ovaries to have PCOS, nor does having polycystic ovaries on a scan automatically mean you have PCOS. Diagnosis requires a holistic assessment of symptoms, hormone levels, and ultrasound findings, often in consultation with a GP or endocrinologist. Many women only discover they have PCOS when trying to conceive or investigating persistent hormonal symptoms.
Symptoms That May Suggest PCOS and Warrant a Scan
If you're experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, a PCOS ultrasound scan can be a vital diagnostic tool to help understand your condition and guide further management:
- Irregular, Infrequent, or Missed Periods: A hallmark symptom, including periods that are heavy, very light, or absent altogether.
- Acne or Oily Skin: Often severe and persistent, particularly on the face, chest, or back.
- Excess Facial or Body Hair (Hirsutism): Unwanted hair growth in patterns typical for men (e.g., upper lip, chin, chest, back).
- Difficulty Getting Pregnant (Subfertility): Due to irregular or absent ovulation.
- Weight Gain or Difficulty Losing Weight: Particularly around the abdomen.
- Scalp Hair Thinning: Male-pattern hair loss.
- Skin Tags: Small growths of skin, often in the armpits or neck.
- Darkening of Skin: Patches of thickened, darkened skin (acanthosis nigricans), particularly in skin folds.
- Mood Changes: Including anxiety and depression.
- Family History of PCOS or Hormonal Issues: A genetic predisposition can increase your risk.
What Does a PCOS Ultrasound Scan Involve?
Our pelvic ultrasound scan for PCOS is specifically designed to provide high-resolution imaging to assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. It is performed by expert sonographers using state-of-the-art equipment.
During the scan, we will meticulously assess:
- Ovarian Volume and Appearance: Measuring the size of your ovaries and checking for the characteristic "polycystic" appearance, which involves an increased number of small follicles (often referred to as cysts) clustered around the periphery.
- Uterus and Endometrial Thickness: Evaluating the size and shape of your uterus, and accurately measuring the thickness of the womb lining (endometrium). This is important as irregular periods can sometimes lead to endometrial thickening.
- Rule Out Other Pelvic Causes: The scan helps to exclude other gynaecological conditions that might present with similar symptoms, such as fibroids, ovarian cysts (not related to PCOS), or other structural abnormalities that could cause irregular bleeding or pain.
- Support for Your Medical Team: The clear imaging provided by our scan is invaluable in supporting your GP, fertility specialist, or endocrinologist with a comprehensive picture for your diagnosis and management plan.
We utilise both transabdominal (over the tummy) and transvaginal (internal) scans for the most accurate and detailed assessment. The transvaginal scan, which provides a closer and clearer view of the ovaries and uterus, is always discussed with you and is completely optional, performed only with your explicit consent.
Do I Need Blood Tests Too for PCOS Diagnosis?
Yes – an ultrasound scan provides crucial anatomical information, but PCOS diagnosis often requires a combination of clinical symptoms, ultrasound findings, and hormone blood tests. If PCOS is suspected, we highly recommend specific hormone blood tests alongside your scan to:
- Measure key hormone levels: Including FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone), LH (Luteinising Hormone), Testosterone, and SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin). These help assess hormonal imbalances typical of PCOS.
- Check other related markers: Such as thyroid function (TSH), prolactin levels (can cause irregular periods), and markers for insulin resistance (e.g., fasting glucose, HbA1c), which is often associated with PCOS.
- Assess ovarian reserve: An AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) test can provide insights into your ovarian reserve, which can be relevant for fertility planning.
- Evaluate general well-being: Other blood markers can offer a broader picture of your health.
At London Private Ultrasound, we offer a comprehensive PCOS blood panel as an optional add-on service. This allows for same-day blood collection following your scan and provides fast results to complement your imaging findings. We can also combine your scan with a GP consultation to discuss your symptoms, blood test results, and plan your next steps with an integrated approach.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your experience at London Private Ultrasound is designed to be as comfortable and reassuring as possible.
- Please attend with a full bladder for the initial transabdominal part of the scan, as this helps to optimise image clarity.
- The ultrasound scan itself is quick and typically takes 15–20 minutes.
- A transvaginal (internal) scan may be offered by the sonographer to improve accuracy and detail, particularly for assessing ovarian appearance. This is entirely optional and will be discussed with you thoroughly beforehand.
- A female sonographer is available upon request, ensuring your comfort and privacy.
- You will receive a detailed written report of your scan findings within 24 hours. Our team will explain the results clearly to you.
- We provide recommendations for next steps, including guidance on follow-up, further investigations, or specialist referrals as needed, ensuring you have a clear path forward.
Follow-Up Options After Your Scan
Receiving a diagnosis or confirmation of PCOS is just the first step. London Private Ultrasound is here to support you in navigating your next steps with clear communication and prompt follow-up as needed. Depending on your scan results and clinical picture, we may recommend:
- GP Consultation for Further Management: Your detailed report can be taken back to your NHS GP for ongoing management, prescription of medication (e.g., for symptom control or managing insulin resistance), or referral within the NHS.
- Referral to a Specialist: We can facilitate private referrals to:
- A Gynaecologist: For further management of gynaecological symptoms or surgical considerations.
- An Endocrinologist: For more specialised management of hormonal imbalances and metabolic aspects of PCOS.
- A Fertility Specialist: If difficulty conceiving is a primary concern, to discuss tailored fertility treatments.
- Lifestyle Advice and Monitoring: Guidance on diet, exercise, and weight management, which are crucial for managing PCOS symptoms and improving long-term health.
- Repeat Scan: A follow-up ultrasound in 6–12 months may be recommended to monitor ovarian changes or assess the effectiveness of any treatments.
Price & Booking Details for Your PCOS Scan
We believe in transparent pricing and efficient service for your peace of mind.
PCOS Ultrasound Scan (Pelvic)
- Duration: 15–20 minutes
- Report: Ready within 24 hours
- Fee: £197
Additional Services Available (Optional Add-ons):
- Comprehensive PCOS Blood Panel: Starting from £150 (same-day collection, fast results).
- GP Consultation: £100 (for discussion of symptoms, results, and next steps).
- Specialist Referral: Prices vary depending on specialist, but we can facilitate this.
Your Convenience Matters:
- Same-day or next-day appointments available: For quick access to diagnostics.
- Female-led clinic experience: Ensuring a comfortable and understanding environment.
- No GP referral required: Self-refer directly for ease of booking.
Visit Us in Central London
London Private Ultrasound is conveniently located to serve clients across London and beyond.
London Private Ultrasound 27 Welbeck Street, Welbeck Hospital, London, W1G 8EN Just off Harley Street, our clinic is easily accessible by public transport and offers a discreet, professional environment.
London Private Ultrasound - St Albans 54-56 Victoria St, St Albans, AL1 3HZ Providing services to St Albans and the surrounding Hertfordshire area.
Book Your Appointment Today
Taking control of your reproductive and overall health starts with a clear diagnosis. A private PCOS ultrasound scan can provide the answers and guidance you need.
To schedule your appointment:
- Call us on 020 7101 3377
- Email us: [email protected]
- Or use our user-friendly online booking form to select your preferred time and date at your leisure.
Pelvic Health Insights
Understanding Common Conditions
A pelvic ultrasound is instrumental in assessing various common gynaecological conditions. While our scans provide detailed imaging, here's a brief overview of some conditions where ultrasound plays a key diagnostic role:
- Uterine Fibroids: These are very common non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. Ultrasound can detect their presence, size, and location, helping to determine if they might be contributing to symptoms like heavy bleeding or pelvic pressure.
- Ovarian Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can form on or in the ovaries. Most are harmless functional cysts that resolve on their own, but ultrasound helps to characterise them (simple vs. complex) and identify any that require monitoring or further investigation.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Ultrasound can reveal characteristic features like multiple small follicles on the ovaries, contributing to the diagnosis alongside clinical symptoms and blood tests.
- Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb starts to grow in other places, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. While severe endometriosis or endometriotic cysts (endometriomas) can be seen on ultrasound, a definitive diagnosis often requires laparoscopy. Ultrasound is crucial for detecting endometriomas ("chocolate cysts").
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the female upper genital tract, including the womb, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Ultrasound may show signs like thickened, fluid-filled fallopian tubes, but the diagnosis is often clinical.
- Endometrial Issues: Ultrasound assesses the thickness and appearance of the uterine lining (endometrium), helping to identify issues like endometrial hyperplasia (thickening), polyps, or signs that might warrant investigation, especially in cases of abnormal bleeding.
Understanding these conditions and the role of ultrasound can empower you in discussions with your healthcare provider. Our team at London Private Ultrasound is always available to explain your specific findings clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To ensure you feel completely prepared and informed, we've gathered answers to the questions our clients ask most often about private PCOS ultrasound scans.
Q1: What is a Private PCOS Ultrasound Scan?
A: A Private PCOS Ultrasound Scan is a dedicated pelvic ultrasound designed to assess ovarian appearance (for "polycystic" features) and evaluate the uterus, helping to diagnose or monitor Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). It's a key diagnostic tool for women experiencing symptoms like irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, or difficulty conceiving.
Q2: Why is a PCOS Ultrasound important for diagnosis?
A: While PCOS diagnosis involves a combination of clinical symptoms and hormone blood tests, the ultrasound is crucial for confirming the "polycystic" appearance of the ovaries – one of the three main diagnostic criteria. It also plays a vital role in ruling out other gynaecological conditions that might present with similar symptoms, providing a comprehensive view of your pelvic health.
Q3: Do I need blood tests in addition to the ultrasound for PCOS diagnosis?
A: Yes, an ultrasound primarily provides anatomical information, but a comprehensive PCOS diagnosis usually requires specific hormone blood tests (e.g., FSH, LH, Testosterone, SHBG) to assess hormonal imbalances. Many clinics, including London Private Ultrasound, offer an optional comprehensive PCOS blood panel for convenience, allowing for a complete diagnostic picture to guide your management.
Q4: How quickly will I get my results from the scan?
A: At London Private Ultrasound, you will receive a detailed written report of your PCOS ultrasound scan findings typically within 24 hours of your appointment. Generally, private clinics aim for very fast turnaround times, often providing results on the same day or within a few days, which is significantly quicker than standard NHS pathways.
Q5: Is a GP referral necessary for a private PCOS scan in London?
A: For private clinics like London Private Ultrasound, a GP referral is generally not required for a PCOS Ultrasound Scan. You can typically self-refer and book directly, offering quicker and more convenient access to diagnostic services without waiting for an NHS GP appointment and referral.
Q6: What does the scan assess?
A: The scan thoroughly assesses ovarian volume and appearance (looking for increased follicles), evaluates the uterus and endometrial thickness, and helps rule out other pelvic causes for symptoms like irregular periods or pain. Both transabdominal (over the tummy) and optional transvaginal (internal) scanning are utilised for maximum accuracy, ensuring a comprehensive examination of your gynaecological organs.
Q7: What symptoms might suggest I need a PCOS ultrasound?
A: Symptoms that might suggest a need for a PCOS ultrasound include: irregular, infrequent, or missed periods; persistent acne or oily skin; excess facial or body hair (hirsutism); difficulty getting pregnant; unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight; and scalp hair thinning. These symptoms collectively indicate a hormonal imbalance that warrants investigation.
Q8: What are the follow-up options after the scan?
A: Depending on the ultrasound results and any accompanying blood tests, follow-up options typically include: discussing findings with your GP for ongoing management, or a referral to a gynaecologist, endocrinologist, or fertility specialist for more targeted care. Lifestyle advice and repeat scans for monitoring may also be recommended to track your progress.
Q9: What is the typical cost of a private PCOS Ultrasound Scan in London?
A: The cost for a private PCOS Ultrasound Scan in London generally ranges from £150 to £300. This can vary depending on the clinic, its location (e.g., in a prime area like Harley Street), the sonographer's level of expertise, and what's included in the package (e.g., immediate report, specialist consultation). At London Private Ultrasound, our fee for a comprehensive PCOS Pelvic Ultrasound is £197.
Q10: What is the difference between a private and NHS ultrasound for PCOS?
A: The primary differences between private and NHS ultrasound scans for PCOS often lie in wait times and referral requirements. Private clinics typically offer much faster appointments, often available same-day or next-day, and usually allow self-referral. NHS scans, while free at the point of use, usually require a GP referral and may involve longer waiting lists. The diagnostic quality of the scan itself should be high in both settings, as they are performed by qualified sonographers.
Q11: Are there any risks associated with a pelvic ultrasound for PCOS?
A: Pelvic ultrasounds, whether transabdominal or transvaginal, are considered very safe diagnostic procedures. They are non-invasive, painless, and do not use ionising radiation, making them suitable even for pregnant women. There are no known associated risks with the sound waves used during the scan.
Q12: How should I prepare for a PCOS pelvic ultrasound?
A: For a transabdominal pelvic ultrasound, you will usually be asked to attend with a full bladder, as this helps to push the bowel out of the way and provides a clearer view of the pelvic organs. For a transvaginal scan, a full bladder is not required, and may even be emptied beforehand for comfort. Specific preparation instructions will always be provided upon booking your appointment to ensure optimal scan quality.
Ready to book or have more questions?
Easy Ways to Book:
- Online: Book using our booking calendar
- Phone: Call our friendly team 24/7 on 020 7101 3377 - we're open 7 days a week, 9 am - 7 pm.
- Email: Send your enquiry to [email protected].
Visit Us: London Private Ultrasound 27 Welbeck Street London, W1G 8ENWe
We look forward to welcoming you.
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Got Your Scan Report. What's Next?
Get expert advice on your scan report for the health areas that matter most to you. Schedule an appointment with your NHS GP, our Private GP or specialist to discover the next steps.
Why Choose Pelvic Ultrasound Scan at London Private Ultrasound?
Excellence in Ultrasound Care
Discover our Full Range of Pelvic Ultrasound Scans
Excellence in Ultrasound Care
Pelvic Ultrasound Scan
A full ultrasound of the uterus, ovaries, endometrium, and bladder.
Endometrial Lining Ultrasound Scan
Focuses on the uterine lining for cycle monitoring or abnormal bleeding.
3D Pelvic Ultrasound
High-definition 3D imaging of the womb, ovaries, and tubes for enhanced diagnosis.
Fertility Ultrasound Scan
Comprehensive scan of reproductive organs and endometrial lining to support conception.
Follicular Tracking Ultrasound
Monitors follicle growth and ovulation timing during fertility cycles.
PCOS Ultrasound Scan
Specialist Pelvic Ultrasound Scan for Women Concerned About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS Health Check
Specialist Pelvic Ultrasound Scan for Women Concerned About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Female’s Pelvic Health Package
Advanced 3D pelvic scan + consultation + targeted blood tests.