To acquire the best diagnostic images possible, the examination is routinely performed Transabdominally, followed by a Transvaginal ultrasound (always with your written consent first). All Women undergoing a DIE ultrasound are submitted to bowel preparation with a mild laxative. Dulcolax fluid solution or tablet is taken orally the night before the examination. On the day of your examination, 1 hour prior perform a simple rectal enema consisting of 133mL of Fleet Enema. This preparation is require to eliminate faecal residues and gases that may be persistent during the examination that limits the Sonographers ability to detect DIE deposits.

An information sheet accompanying the bowel preparation and the laxatives can be collected at our clinic prior to your examination.

It is important to discuss your symptoms with your doctor and, if appropriate, request a referral for a DIE scan.

Ideally, schedule the appointment during the two weeks leading up to your period. During this time, the fluid released due to ovulation can be helpful in outlining the structures in your pelvis. If you are taking 'the pill' and not ovulating, the timing is not critical. Given that many women with endometriosis experience increased pain during menstruation, we advise against scheduling the appointment for a time when you expect to have your period.

The examination usually takes 30-45 minutes. Most women find the Transvaginal examination much more tolerable than having a cervical PAP smear examination. However, the duration may vary depending on the specific reason for the examination and the complexity of the individual case.

Women with severe endometriosis often experience increased discomfort or pain during transvaginal scanning. To help manage any potential discomfort, you may want to consider taking a couple of pain-relief tablets before your appointment. Options include an anti-inflammatory medication such as Nurofen or Naprogesic, or paracetamol (with or without codeine) such as Panadol or Panadeine. You can discuss this further with your referring Doctor.

If possible we recommend wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that provides easy access to the area being imaged. Two-piece clothing, with separate upper and lower garments, is preferable.

Additionally, please ensure that you empty your bladder 1 hour before the procedure and then drink 2 glasses (600ml) of water, holding it without emptying your bladder again. Please note that your appointment might be delayed if your bladder is not adequately full.

Having some urine in your bladder can be beneficial for outlining the cervix and visualizing the relationship of the placenta with the lower uterus during imaging. It also helps to elevate the uterus from the pelvis into the abdomen, facilitating better visualization of the fetus.

You don't need to have a large amount of urine, and simply drinking a glass of water 30-60 minutes before your scheduled appointment is sufficient.

We welcome one adult support person, whether it be your partner or a family member, to accompany you during your Diagnostic scan. However, for specific reasons, we have implemented policies that prohibit children from attending Diagnostic ultrasound appointments. While we understand that this may be disappointing for families, it is essential to maintain a focused environment. Thus allowing the Sonographer to be able to concentrate during the scan whilst taking the necessary images and measurements. Occasionally, our sonographer may need to discuss unfortunate news found during your appointment and so this must be taken into consideration. The presence of children can introduce distractions that may impact the quality of the examination.

Endometriosis is a complex medical condition that necessitates specialized care. It is advisable to discuss treatment plans with the referring doctor, as they may include hormonal suppression and pain management, or the surgical removal of endometriotic deposits.