What is ovarian screening?
Ovarian screening is a detailed ultrasound of your ovaries, performed transvaginally as standard, that checks their size and appearance and looks closely at any cysts. It is often combined with a CA125 blood test, particularly for women with symptoms or a family history.
Why might I need an ovarian ultrasound?
For persistent bloating, pelvic or lower tummy pain, feeling full quickly, a change in bowel or bladder habit, a cyst found on another scan, a family history of ovarian cancer or a BRCA gene change, or simply for peace of mind.
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer symptoms are often vague. See your GP if you have any of these most days for three weeks or more:
- Persistent bloating or a swollen tummy
- Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite
- Pelvic or tummy pain
- Needing to wee more often
Most of the time these have a benign cause, but they should be checked.
Can an ultrasound detect ovarian cancer?
Ultrasound is the main test for looking at the ovaries and can show cysts or masses with features that need further investigation. It cannot rule out every early cancer, and there is no proven screening programme for women at average risk, so symptoms and family history guide how often you should be checked.
Are ovarian cysts dangerous?
Most are not. Simple, fluid-filled cysts are very common, often form as part of the menstrual cycle and usually disappear on their own. Cysts with solid areas, thick walls or blood flow are assessed more carefully, and some need a repeat scan, blood tests or a gynaecology opinion.
What is a CA125 test?
CA125 is a blood test that can be raised in ovarian cancer, but also in benign conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids and periods. It is used alongside ultrasound, particularly in women with symptoms, rather than on its own.
I have a family history or a BRCA gene. What should I do?
Women with a strong family history or a BRCA gene change should be under a specialist genetics or gynaecology team, who will discuss risk-reducing options. Ultrasound and CA125 can be part of monitoring, but are not as reliable as risk-reducing surgery; your specialist will explain.
Can a smear test detect ovarian cancer?
No. Cervical screening (a smear test) checks the cervix for HPV and cell changes; it does not detect ovarian cancer. Persistent symptoms such as bloating or pelvic pain should be checked with an ultrasound and a CA125 blood test.
Can ovarian cysts cause weight gain, bloating or back pain?
Larger cysts can cause bloating, a feeling of fullness, pelvic or lower back pain, and pressure on the bladder or bowel. Significant weight gain is rarely due to a cyst alone. A scan shows whether a cyst is large enough to explain your symptoms.
When is ovarian pain an emergency?
Go to A&E if you have sudden, severe pain low in the tummy, especially on one side with vomiting or fainting. This can be ovarian torsion or a ruptured cyst, which need urgent treatment.
Will I need an internal scan?
Yes, as standard. The scan is performed transvaginally because it shows the ovaries in far more detail than a tummy scan. It is gentle, a chaperone is always offered, and you can decline or stop at any time. If you would prefer it done through the tummy, tell us when you book and arrive with a full bladder.
Can I have an ovarian scan after the menopause?
Yes. After the menopause the ovaries become small and quiet, so any cyst or enlargement is assessed carefully. Postmenopausal women with symptoms such as bloating should always be checked.
How long does an ovarian screening scan take?
Around twenty to thirty minutes, including a short conversation, the scan and time to explain the findings.
How much does ovarian screening cost?
At Harley Street Ultrasound a private ovarian screening scan costs £260, all fees inclusive: the scan, the specialist’s time, your written report and images. A CA125 blood test can be added.
What if you find something?
Your specialist tells you in the room, in plain English, and explains exactly what it means. You will never be sent home to wait for a letter. Most findings are benign and need nothing more than a sensible review date.
Anything that does need attention gets a clear, objective recommendation in your report: monitor, test further, or refer. Follow-up tests can usually be arranged at 99 Harley Street, often the same week, and those results are also explained to you personally.
Do I need a referral?
No. Harley Street Ultrasound is a private clinic, so you can book an ovarian screening scan in London directly online or by phone. No GP letter, no waiting list, and same-day or next-day appointments are usually available. If you are searching for an ovarian screening scan near me from anywhere in central London, we are at 99 Harley Street, a short walk from Regent’s Park and Oxford Circus stations.
If you are wondering how much a private ovarian screening scan costs, the answer is published before you book: £260, all fees inclusive: the examination, the specialist’s time, your written report and your images. Insured patients should bring a referral or authorisation number if their policy requires one.
How soon will I have the written report?
Usually the same day: a Harley Street ovarian screening scan comes with same-day results as standard, and you will already know the findings, because they are explained to you on screen during the appointment.
The written report is prepared by the specialist team and published to your secure patient portal together with your images, with measurements and a clear recommendation, ready to share with your GP or specialist.
What happens after the scan?
Nothing special: there is no aftercare needed. You can eat, drive and go back to work straight away. Diagnostic ultrasound at these intensities has no confirmed adverse effects, which is why it can be repeated safely for monitoring. If your results suggest a next step, your specialist explains it before you leave.
Can I still use the NHS afterwards?
Yes: completely. Coming to us privately never affects your NHS care. Our job is to get you answers quickly; if anything needs urgent attention, your specialist writes to your NHS GP recommending an urgent appointment, so you re-enter the NHS pathway with a diagnosis already in hand rather than joining the queue from the start.
