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Pregnancy

Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

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Original poster

transvaginal scan - do they clean the probe?

20 replies

worried46 · 30/10/2009 11:35

Yesterday I went for my dating scan (13 weeks) and the sonographer insisted on doing an internal scan as well. I have been worried ever since as she did not put a condom or anything on the probe - just some ultrasound gel, so I thought that they must clean it after each patient, but then at the end, she just wiped it with some more gel and put it back in its holder. Is this normal procedure?

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Pinkjenny · 30/10/2009 11:36

Nice. They've always put a condom on ime.

DuelingFanjo · 30/10/2009 11:38

they have always put a condom on when I have had a scan, I would have thought it was accepted procedure and if I were you I would complain.

Northernlurker · 30/10/2009 11:39

That sounds a bit odd - I wouls have expected them to cover it or use some sort of diposable probe. There's no use sitting worrying about this - ring the clinic now, ask to speak to a midwife and ask her to reassure you on what is their normal practice. Then if you're not happy with that response contact PALS at your local hospital and ask them to help you resolve this.

iateallthecreameggsyummy · 30/10/2009 12:21

gosh at my hospital they always used a condom. You need to find out for your own peace of mind

good luck

Milliemuffin · 31/10/2009 15:38

I've just been told by my DP that they did put a condom on when I had mine but I could have sworn they didnt so maybe you just missed it? I certainly did.

susiey · 31/10/2009 15:41

they put a condom on mine and they cleaned it before that

foxinsocks · 31/10/2009 15:46

they put one on mine too and they did it so bloody quickly, I missed it and only noticed when they took it out (was impressed the nurse was so nimble with putting the condom on - can't say I have ever managed to do that without a lot more fuss )

ImSoNotTelling · 31/10/2009 15:59

Condom here too. Call them and check.

seeker · 31/10/2009 16:06

Why did they use a transvaginal scan at a dating scan? I know it's too late now, but another time, find out why they are using it and only agree if there's a really good reason.

treedeLivingDeadery · 31/10/2009 16:15

transvaginal not that uncommon at 10 weeks, especially if the uterus was tilted slightly, not entirely clear of the pelvis [maybe bladder didn't push up enough] or the sonographer couldn't date due to views. Or get a good view of something like an ovary.

They absolutely would always put a sheath on, it may have been done out of view. Some women do say they find the sight intimidating. You should ask to put your mind at ease.

Congratulations!

ilovesprouts · 31/10/2009 16:25

they have should put a condom/cover on it

ilovesprouts · 31/10/2009 16:31

also my pal had one of them and she said complain if no cover/condom on it as you dont know who had it before you yuk !!

victoriascrumptious · 01/11/2009 19:45

They use the probe thing if your fat too. (They put a condom on mine)

ClaireDeLoon · 01/11/2009 19:58

They should definitely put a condom on it in fact they have always checked with me if I have a latex allergy.

Comma2 · 01/11/2009 20:00

They are so quick you probably just missed it. And she prob also pulled it off when you thought she was jsut wiping it.

fledtoscotland · 03/11/2009 00:12

They have always put a condom on when I have had them too. Its always such a faff as I have a latex allergy so everyone always forgets and run round daft looking for a latex free condom - not in great supply in a maternity unit.

PootleTheFlump · 03/11/2009 09:51

Have always had a condom on with mine, but she could have had it on already? Hope so...

BlueCollie · 03/11/2009 12:14

I'm a nurse and they definately should have put a special condom on it. I would contact hospital and state what happened. I'm sure you will be fine but I would also let your midwife know what happened and if it was me I would have some swabs taken for peace of mind. You can insist on these by the way. I am rather shocked by that to be honest.

sh77 · 03/11/2009 17:24

I had one of these last week and thought the exact same thing. I am sure there was no sheath on it. I was too much in a state about having a MC to ask but I have to back next week and so will enquire. Good thread.

onadietcokebreak · 03/11/2009 17:25

Always used a condom with mine. Suggest you do as Bluecollie advises.

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