Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, radiation-free imaging exam that provides clear images of the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, ovaries, prostate, and adjacent vascular and lymphatic structures. It is useful in the diagnosis of gynaecological, urological and oncological diseases.
What is a Pelvic MRI?
Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to generate detailed images of the pelvic cavity. It allows precise differentiation of soft tissues, assessment of masses and characterization of lesions that are not evident on pelvic ultrasound or pelvic CT scan.
What is the price of a Pelvic MRI?
The price of a pelvic MRI is 275€, when performed on a private basis. However, it can also be performed through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: If the pelvic MRI is performed under ADSE, the patient only pays a fee of 30€;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers.
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For a pelvic MRI, the price through protocol is 220€.
The price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance you wish to use.
Find out more about the price of MRI exams.
How is it performed?
In a pelvic MRI, the patient lies on their back in a coil specifically designed for the pelvic region. Sequences are acquired in different planes to obtain thin, detailed slices.
The MRI scanner is open at both ends.
In some cases, intravenous contrast may be administered to assess tumours, inflammatory lesions or vascular disease.
During the exam, earplugs are provided to reduce the perception of scanner noise.
The duration varies according to the protocol, usually between 30 and 50 minutes, and may be longer if contrast is used.
What does it detect?
Pelvic MRI allows the detection, for example, of:
- Uterine lesions such as fibroids, adenomyosis and endometrial changes;
- Ovarian and adnexal lesions;
- Changes in the prostate and peri-prostatic structures;
- Diseases of the bladder and lower urinary tract;
- Pelvic inflammatory disease and gynaecological complications;
- Pelvic lymph nodes and metastatic changes;
- Vascular changes, such as thrombosis or pelvic varices;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Pelvic MRI may be requested in situations such as:
- Assessment of uterine or ovarian masses that are not clearly defined on ultrasound;
- Staging of gynaecological or urological tumours;
- Investigation of pelvic pain or bleeding;
- Surgical planning (e.g. myomectomy, prostatectomy);
- Assessment of endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for a Pelvic MRI
Before undergoing an MRI at NRD, please consider the following:
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You must bring the exam prescription in paper form. |
| Fasting | Most MRI exams do not require fasting. In cases with contrast, fasting for 3 hours is usually necessary (confirmed when booking). |
| Early arrival | Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take essential and unavoidable medication with a minimum amount of water. |
| Metal objects | Remove all metal objects (e.g. earrings, bracelets, necklaces, piercings, hairpins, removable prostheses, etc.). |
| Pregnancy | Inform the NRD healthcare professional if you are pregnant. |
| Exams / Tests / Info | Bring previous imaging exams, relevant clinical information and recent laboratory tests. |
| Glucose monitoring implant | Do not place the implant, as it will have to be removed before the exam. |
| Make-up | Do not wear make-up, as some products may affect the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses, bring proof describing and specifying the material composition. |
| Hearing aids | Inform us if you use a hearing aid, as it must be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform us if you use a dental prosthesis, as it must be removed before the exam. Also inform us if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform us if you wear orthodontic appliances. A test may be necessary to assess compatibility with MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI exams on people with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g. cochlear implant), and it is recommended that the exam be carried out in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technologist responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be at your disposal, which you can activate if needed.
You should remain still during the exam to ensure high-quality images.
The entire NRD team will be at your disposal to answer any questions that may arise.
After the exam, you can return to your usual daily activities.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the MRI results within 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper form at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take a CD with the images with you.
Where can you have a Pelvic MRI?
A pelvic MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, r/c, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (near Praça de Espanha)