Tests and imaging

Women’s health specialists at Ascension Illinois use diagnostic tests and imaging to diagnose, monitor and treat women’s health conditions.

Women’s health tests and imaging close to home

Our OB-GYN team in Chicagoland uses advanced diagnostic tools to understand your symptoms and identify women’s health conditions, helping create a care plan that’s right for you.

A blood test is a lab analysis of things that may be found in your blood. You may have blood tests to keep track of how well you’re managing a condition, such as diabetes or high cholesterol. You may also have bloodwork to evaluate your hormone levels, fertility indicators, thyroid function, anemia or confirm pregnancy.

A cervical biopsy is a procedure to remove tissue from the cervix to test for abnormal or precancerous conditions, or cervical cancer.

During an endometrial biopsy, your healthcare provider removes a small tissue sample from the lining of the uterus (endometrium) for study. The tissue is viewed with a microscope to look for abnormal cells. Your doctor can also check the effects of hormones on the endometrium.

A fetal ultrasound is a test used during pregnancy. It creates an image of your baby in your womb (uterus). These tests are a safe way to check your baby’s health. During a fetal ultrasound, your baby’s heart, head and spine are evaluated, along with other areas. The ultrasound may be performed either on the abdomen (transabdominal) or inside the vagina (transvaginal).

An HPV test is performed using a sample of cells from your cervix. To collect the sample, your doctor will put a speculum into your vagina to reach the cervix. Your doctor will use one or more tools shaped like a spatula, brush or both. These are used to collect samples of cells in the cervix.

A mammogram is an X-ray image of your breast. Mammograms are used to find and diagnose breast disease, like breast cancer. Your healthcare provider may order a mammogram if you have a breast concern, such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge. Your provider may also order a mammogram as a screening test. The test can look for breast cancers, noncancer (benign) tumors and cysts before they can be felt.

Pap smears check the cells from inside your cervix for any changes that could lead to cancer. The cervix is the lower part of your uterus that opens into the vagina.

A pelvic ultrasound is a scan that looks at the organs and structures in your pelvic area. It allows your healthcare provider to look at your uterus, cervix, bladder, fallopian tubes and ovaries. A pelvic ultrasound may be done in two ways:

Transabdominal: A transducer and gel are put on your belly.
Transvaginal: A long, thin transducer is covered with a plastic or latex sheath and gel, then placed inside the vagina.

A technician or a radiologist may perform this procedure. A radiologist is a healthcare provider who specializes in using imaging methods to diagnose and treat diseases. The test usually lasts less than 30 minutes.