What does a full bladder help visualize during ultrasound?

A full bladder acts as an acoustic window during an ultrasound exam, enhancing the visualization of the cervix. When the bladder is distended, it moves the pelvic structures slightly and provides a clearer view of the cervix by displacing surrounding organs and tissues. This can be particularly important in obstetric evaluations to assess the cervix, especially in the context of preterm labor or cervical incompetence.

In addition, a full bladder can help in the evaluation of other pelvic organs, but its primary benefit for cervical visualization is to ensure that the anatomical structures are more easily distinguishable from each other. This is crucial for accurate measurements and assessments.