Gynaecological MRI

Mayo Clinic Healthcare performs private gynaecological MRIs at our Harley Street clinic. These advanced diagnostic techniques create detailed imaging of the uterus, vagina, rectum, ovaries, urethra and other pelvic anatomy, helping your consultant correctly identify the causes of your symptoms.

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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the process of using magnets and radiofrequency waves to produce detailed images of your internal organs. A gynaecological MRI focuses on the pelvic organs, allowing your consultants to diagnose causes of your symptoms or potential problems in future.

Mostly, gynaecological MRIs are used to detect fibroids, tumours, and endometriosis

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that cause heavy periods, pelvic pain, and other symptoms. MRIs determine the size, number, and location of these growths.

Tumours are abnormal lumps of cells formed in the body. They vary in size and severity. An MRI can help assess their nature and location.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissues similar to the lining of the uterus grow outside, causing pain and often impacting fertility.
The MRI will typically be recommended for patients experiencing any of the following problems:

Chronic pelvic pain - aches, cramps, or pressure within the pelvis

Severe menstrual pain - heavy or irregular periods

Painful intercourse - discomfort during or bleeding after sex

Fertility concerns - difficulty conceiving or unexplained infertility

Your consultant will listen to your symptoms and help determine whether an MRI is the best next step.
The procedure provides detailed imaging to detect various conditions in the organs of the pelvic area.

These include:

Uterine conditions - such as uterine cancer or adenomyosis

Ovarian conditions - including cysts and ovarian cancer

Cervical and vaginal conditions - like cervical cancer and pelvic organ prolapse

Pelvic infections & inflammation

Bowel and urinary tract abnormalities - including bowel cancer
To ensure the best results during your MRI scan, please follow these conditions:

Avoid eating in the two to three hours prior to your procedure

Take any medications as normal unless instructed otherwise

You will also need to answer a questionnaire to determine if you can safely receive an MRI scan, as certain types of metal implants and devices can be affected by magnets.
You will need to arrive at the clinic 15 minutes prior to your appointment. A member of staff will review your completed MRI safety questionnaire.

You will be asked to change into a gown or clinical scrubs, as well as remove any jewellery or metal for safety.

Depending on the type of imaging you need, you may need an injection of MRI contrast dye.

You may also need an injection of Buscopan. Because your bowel is constantly moving while it digests your food, this movement can make the MRI images blurry. Buscopan is a medication that can help to relax these digestive muscles and make your images clearer.

Once you are ready, the radiographer will ask you to lay down on the scanner table and a camera will be placed above your pelvic area to capture the images.

The MRI will then create a series of images.
During the procedure, you will lie on a table that slides into the tube Once you are ready, you will be moved into position so that your pelvis is in the middle of the scanner to capture the images. . You may be asked to hold your breath several times. This helps the MRI scanner produce clearer images of your abdominal area.

The MRI machine makes loud noises during imaging. You will have earplugs and headphones to protect your hearing, and a buzzer to squeeze if you need to get the radiographers attention.

If you’d prefer, we’ll provide earplugs and let you select music to help block the noise of the MRI.
Once you are on the scanning table, the procedure takes about 60 minutes.
Once the MRI is completed, you can resume your normal activities immediately.
There are no known risks or side effects to MRIs. Unlike X-Rays or CT Scans, an MRI does not use radiation, making it a safer alternative for many patients.

However, for patients with metal implants such as pacemakers, the MRI may not be suitable.
Your images will be sent to a radiologist for reporting, which should be completed within 48 hours.

The final report will then be sent to your referring consultant, who will then discuss your results with you.

Private health insurance

Mayo Clinic Healthcare works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA, PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay arrangements are also available.

Book your gynaecological MRI in London

Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the next steps of your gynaecological MRI. Request an appointment with us today.