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Pelvic MRI
pelvic MRI · MRI of the uterus and ovaries · MRI of the pelvis
Images of your pelvic organs in a magnetic field, with no radiation. They show the uterus, ovaries, bladder, rectum, and lymph nodes.
For pain low in the belly, fibroids and cysts, to clarify ultrasound findings, before surgery, and for follow-up.
⏱ Duration: usually 30 to 45 minutes, longer with contrast; the report in 1 to 3 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Usually no food for 3 to 4 hours, so the bowel moves less. Check with the clinic.
- Bladder. You are often asked to have a moderately full bladder: do not pee for an hour before. Check with the clinic.
- Cycle. For women, certain cycle days are sometimes better. Ask the doctor who referred you.
- Metal. Take off everything metal: jewelry, watches, hair clips, piercings. Leave your phone and cards in the locker.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Past pelvic ultrasounds and MRIs
- A creatinine test, if contrast will be used
How it goes
- You change and leave everything metal in the locker
- You lie on the table, and a soft coil pad is placed over the area
- Sometimes a medicine is given so the bowel moves less
- The machine knocks loudly. You get headphones or earplugs
- Lie still. Staff talk to you over an intercom
- You hold a call button and can call staff at any time
- If contrast is used, it goes into a vein at the end
What you'll feel
- It does not hurt, but it is loud and tight
- Sometimes the area feels warm. That is normal
- With contrast: a cool feeling in the vein
Afterwards
- You can go back to your day right away
- After contrast, drink more water, unless your doctor said otherwise
- Take the report to your gynecologist, urologist, or colorectal specialist
Contact a doctor straight away if
- After contrast: itching, a rash, a swollen face, or trouble breathing. Tell the staff right away or call emergency services
Common questions
Can I have a pelvic MRI during my period?
Usually yes, but for some purposes other days are better. Ask your doctor.
Do I need to remove my IUD?
Usually not. Tell staff about it in advance.
Can I have an MRI with fillings and crowns?
Yes. Fillings and regular crowns are no problem. Tell staff about implants and prostheses in advance, and they will check.