What structures are commonly identified in a pelvic ultrasound?

In a pelvic ultrasound, the primary structures that are typically identified include the uterus and ovaries, along with surrounding anatomical structures such as the bladder and rectum. The uterus appears as a pear-shaped organ, and the ovaries are located on either side of the uterus; both are essential components of the female reproductive system. This imaging modality is crucial for assessing various conditions related to these organs, including cysts, fibroids, and assessing the overall health of the reproductive system.

The other options describe structures that are not located in the pelvis. For instance, the heart and blood vessels are part of the cardiovascular system found in the thoracic cavity, while the liver and gallbladder are located in the upper abdominal region. Similarly, the brain and spinal column are part of the central nervous system and reside within the cranial and spinal cavities, respectively. Thus, the focus of a pelvic ultrasound is specifically on the reproductive organs and associated pelvic structures.