Pelvic MRI
Pelvic MRI
Key points
- A pelvic MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of pelvic organs and surrounding tissues.
- It is often performed when more detailed imaging is required following ultrasound or other initial investigations.
- Pelvic MRI can help assess complex conditions such as tumours, endometriosis, congenital abnormalities or pelvic pain.
- The scan provides high-resolution cross-sectional images that support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Pelvic MRI does not use ionising radiation and is considered a safe imaging technique for most patients.
Pelvic MRI is used to create images of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, bladder and surrounding tissues. MRI provides very high-resolution images and is often used when more detailed information is needed than ultrasound alone can provide.
Why might my doctor refer me for a pelvic MRI? keyboard_arrow_down
A pelvic MRI may be recommended to investigate symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, suspected endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts or pelvic masses. It is often used when ultrasound findings need further evaluation.
What happens during the scan? keyboard_arrow_down
You will lie on a scanning table while a special device called a coil is placed over the pelvic area. The table moves into the MRI scanner while images are taken. The scanner makes loud noises during the examination, but you will be given earplugs or headphones.
Do I need to prepare for a pelvic MRI? keyboard_arrow_down
Safety in the MRI scanner is vital. The strong magnetic fields can attract and interfere with metal objects that you might have in or on you (including electronic and magnetic devices). Some of these interactions could potentially cause harm or even death.
You may be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before your scan and to remove any metal objects such as jewellery. You will also complete a safety questionnaire to check for any implanted devices or metal in your body. If you have a pacemaker or other implants, it is important to tell the radiology practice before having the scan.
Objects in your body that can cause particular harm or be damaged include: pacemakers, aneurysm clips, heart valve replacements, neurostimulators, cochlear implants, metal fragments in the eye, metal foreign bodies, magnetic dental implants and drug infusion pumps. Some of these implants, particularly more recent devices, might be safe to go into the MRI scanner, but have to be accurately identified for the scan to proceed.
You should take any documents about your implants to the appointment. These can help to correctly identify the type of implant to assess if it is safe for you to have the MRI scan.
If you are pregnant, please discuss this with your doctor and tell the radiology practice before having the scan.
How long does the scan take? keyboard_arrow_down
A pelvic MRI typically takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on the type of imaging required.
Related procedures
This information has been reviewed by I-MED Radiologist Dr Bridget Sutton, MBBS, FRANZCR, Diploma Fetal Medicine