SAG_GEM Abdominal and Pelvis Sonograms

[Guest guest]

Dear Sag_Gem:

Not to worry! I would think the *most likely* reason your doctor ordered an

abdominal ultrasound, in conjunction with your pelvic ultrasound, was to

determine the status of your kidneys and ureters.

Sometimes, those of us with very large fibroidal uteri have a related

condition called HYDRONEPHROSIS. That is, if the uterus is large enough, the

enlarged fibroidal uterus can compress one (or both) of the ureters (the two

tubes

leading from the bladder to the kidneys). The pressure on the ureters can then

cause a distention in the kidney called " hydronephrosis. "

I had hydronephrosis (in one or both kidneys--on and off) for a number of

years, but was essentially symptom-free. I've had probably a dozen abdominal

ultrasounds, in my day--for a variety of reasons, some related to my previously

21-week-sized uterus.

By the way, an abdominal ultrasound ALSO examines a whole lot more than your

kidneys--it also looks at your pancreas, liver, spleen, gallbladder and

abdominal aorta. It's a noninvasive test that can rule out a whole host of

conditions.

You HAVE A RIGHT TO KNOW WHY YOUR DOCTOR ORDERED A PARTICULAR TEST.

Therefore, instead of speculating and worrying needlessly about the unknown, why

not

just ASK YOUR DOCTOR *why* she wants you to undergo the abdominal

ultrasound--what is she trying to rule out? It's your body; and your time---you

have a

right to know!!!!

Why not call her office today--and ask?

-Roma

In a message dated 4/9/2004 9:12:57 AM Eastern Daylight Time,

sag_gem@... writes:

i went to my dr yesterday and she let me have an abdominal and pelvis sonogram

because i have fibroids...what i am wondering about is why did she let me have a

abdominal and pelvis sonogram