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Ovarian Artery Systolic and Diastolic Blood Flow — Doppler Ultrasound

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A Doppler ultrasound that measures blood-flow speed and direction in the ovarian arteries to help evaluate ovarian blood flow.

Quick summary

["This ultrasound assesses blood flow in the ovarian arteries and is interpreted together with the ovaries’ appearance and your symptoms."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12137-6
Short code
Ovarian a-L Sys flow/Dias DOP
Synonyms
Ovarian a-L Sys flow/Dias DOP
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-doppler
CPT
86038
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This is a Doppler ultrasound examination of the arteries supplying the ovaries. It measures systolic and diastolic blood-flow velocity, which reflects how blood is moving through the ovarian circulation.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to evaluate ovarian blood flow during fertility assessments or when there are symptoms or findings involving the ovaries, such as pain, irregular periods, or polycystic ovaries. It is often performed as part of a pelvic ultrasound.

How is the test performed?

A clinician applies an ultrasound probe to the lower abdomen or uses a transvaginal probe, depending on the examination. The probe uses sound waves to image the ovaries and measure blood flow in their arteries.

How do I prepare for the test?

For a transvaginal ultrasound, you may be asked to empty your bladder. If the test is part of a fertility evaluation, ask whether you need to follow a specific cycle timing or other preparation instructions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal blood-flow measurements may reflect changes associated with ovarian function, polycystic ovarian syndrome, benign ovarian conditions, or fertility concerns. Results must be interpreted with the ultrasound images, menstrual and clinical history, and other findings. Doppler results alone do not establish a diagnosis.

Short name

Ovarian artery Doppler

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose ovarian torsion?
No. Doppler findings may support or reduce suspicion for torsion, but ovarian appearance, symptoms, and sometimes additional imaging are needed to make that diagnosis.
Is an ovarian artery Doppler test the same as a routine pelvic ultrasound?
It is a specialized part of an ultrasound examination. Routine imaging shows the ovaries and nearby structures, while Doppler measures the speed and direction of blood flow.
Is the test painful?
A transabdominal ultrasound is generally painless, although pressure from the probe may be uncomfortable. A transvaginal ultrasound may feel uncomfortable but is usually brief and generally well tolerated.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy