Transvaginal Ultrasound: Current Practices and Barriers in Pakistani Sonographers: Transvaginal Ultrasound Practices in Pakistan

Syed Amir Gilani; Syed Muhammad Yousaf Farooq; Muhammad Uzair; Zainab Haider; Salsabeel Khan; Saima Arshad; Muhammad Irshad Ul Haq

doi:10.54393/pbmj.v8i11.1304

Authors

Syed Amir Gilani Department of Medical Diagnostic Imaging, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Syed Muhammad Yousaf Farooq Department of Radiology and Imaging Technology, Green International University, Lahore, Pakistan
Muhammad Uzair Department of Radiology and Imaging Technology, Green International University, Lahore, Pakistan
Zainab Haider Department of Radiology and Imaging Technology, Green International University, Lahore, Pakistan
Salsabeel Khan Department of Public Health, Green International University, Lahore, Pakistan
Saima Arshad Department of Radiology and Imaging Technology, Green International University, Lahore, Pakistan
Muhammad Irshad Ul Haq Department of Radiology and Imaging Technology, Green International University, Lahore, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54393/pbmj.v8i11.1304

Keywords:

Transvaginal Ultrasound, Sonography, Women’s Health, Health Service Accessibility

Abstract

Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) is an important diagnostic medium in the evaluation of female pelvic pathology because it can be performed without invasiveness, is real-time, and has diagnostic accuracy. Its use in low and middle-income countries, particularly in gynecological practice, has significant difficulties regardless of the international suggestions to use it regularly. Objective: To explore the current practices, perceived barriers, and influential factors associated with the routine implementation of TVUS among Pakistani sonographers. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 162 accredited sonographers across Pakistan using a 35-item structured questionnaire. Data on demographic characteristics, clinical experience, confidence levels, protocol adherence, and perceived barriers were collected. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: The findings revealed strong patient preference for female sonographers across all regions, with statistically significant differences based on practice location (p<0.001). Adherence to standardized TVUS protocols was highest in public hospitals and among practitioners with over 15 years of experience (p<0.001). Key barriers included cultural taboos, inadequate training, limited institutional support, and legal/ethical concerns, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Practitioners' confidence was positively associated with years of experience. Conclusions: The study highlights critical gaps in training, infrastructure, and cultural acceptability that hinder effective TVUS utilization in Pakistan. Targeted interventions such as gender-sensitive training, protocol standardization, and policy-level reforms are essential to bridge these gaps and enhance the delivery of equitable, high-quality gynecological care.

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