ULTRASOUND PERINEUM, in Visit Clinic

Yes. Transperineal (translabial) ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive bedside technique to image the pelvic floor, urethra, sphincters, perineal tears, fistulae and postpartum obstetric injuries. A high-frequency linear or curved probe provides good superficial detail and complements transvaginal or transrectal scans. It’s operator-dependent and limited by depth, body habitus, and overlying air or bone; specialist interpretation is recommended.

The perineum is the region between the genitals and anus containing skin, muscles, nerves and blood vessels. It supports the pelvic floor, helps maintain bladder and bowel continence, stabilizes pelvic organs, and contributes to sexual sensation. During childbirth it stretches to allow the baby’s passage and may be protected or repaired if injured.

Perianal ultrasound is done with the patient lying on their side or in lithotomy. A high‑frequency probe is covered and lubricated, then placed against the perineum or gently inserted into the anal canal. Real‑time (often 3D) images map sphincters, abscesses, or fistula tracts. The exam takes about 10–20 minutes, is minimally invasive, and may cause only mild discomfort; local anaesthetic or an enema may be used.

Perineum problems can cause localized pain or tenderness, swelling, redness, bruising or lumps. You may notice bleeding, discharge, itching, burning on urination, numbness or altered sensation, and difficulty sitting or walking. Pain during sex, persistent discomfort after childbirth or trauma, and signs of infection such as fever or foul-smelling discharge also occur. Seek medical evaluation for worsening or persistent symptoms.

The perineum can cause sensations from mild soreness to severe, sharp, burning or throbbing pain depending on cause (childbirth tears, episiotomy, infection, nerve entrapment, prostatitis, abscess). Pain often worsens with sitting, walking, bowel movements or sex and may limit daily activities. Treatment ranges from rest, ice/sitz baths, analgesics and pelvic‑floor physiotherapy to medical or surgical interventions if persistent.

Transperineal ultrasound is usually not painful. A small external probe is placed against the perineum, causing pressure or mild discomfort rather than sharp pain. It’s non‑invasive and brief; people with pelvic tenderness, recent surgery, or high anxiety may feel more discomfort. Tell the operator if you experience pain — they can adjust probe pressure, positioning, or stop the exam.