Gynaecological scans are among the most common diagnostic tests done on women. The more accurate the imaging, the better the diagnostic discrimination. This led to the development of internal scans, referred to as trans-vaginal scans, or TVS. This is the preferred mode of pelvic imaging and is applicable at any point when some pelvic disease appears. It is invaluable in diagnosing early pregnancy conditions, and in monitoring patients undergoing fertility treatments.
More flexible
Women, however, find TVS intrusive and somewhat uncomfortable. The good news is that you can now do it yourself at the comfort of your own surroundings. Either your home or office will do. Self-scanning has been introduced elsewhere, aptly known as Self-Operated Endovaginal Telemetry (SOET). The aim is to provide you with an option that may be more flexible and acceptable, whilst accepting the limitations that may be inherent in such approaches.
You will need a supply of gadgets to enable self-scanning. The key equipment includes an easily portable ultrasound machine, and related software. You will then need a reliable high-speed internet connection to transmit the ultrasound images to your gynaecologist’s office in real-time, for interpretation and action. You will of course require some basic orientation in using the ultrasound machine, and how to manipulate the TVS device inside your body. If you can’t bring yourself to insert the device, you can always enlist the help of your partner.
It may all sound creepy to some, but others may see obvious advantages. The nervousness that accompanies a TVS whilst being done by a stranger, in a healthcare environment, is immediately negated. You can do it at an appropriate time, taking all precautions to limit discomfort. But there are disadvantages too.
A learning curve is required to optimise acquisition of the right images. Your gynaecologist can only rely on what you send them. Something serious may be missed, even though the supplied software helps out to some extent. You may be required to have a formal rescan done at the end of the day.
The immediate application of self-scans is for mundane stuff. You want an experienced gynaecologist to perform any scans that may lead to critical decision-making. And you can’t really perform your own scans for life-threatening conditions. For those with disabilities affecting hand-eye coordination, a self-scan would be an uphill task. Your partner may not be too willing either to help with insertion of strange devices into you. So don’t hold your breath as yet, but be ready to embrace new frontiers in your gynaecological care.
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