Culdocentesis
Culdocentesis is a procedure that checks for abnormal fluid in the space just behind the vagina. This area is called the cul-de-sac.
Vagina
The vagina is the female body part that connects the womb (uterus) and cervix to the outside of the body.
Read Article Now Book Mark ArticleHow the Test is Performed
First, you will have a pelvic exam. Then, the health care provider will hold the cervix with an instrument and lift it slightly.
Cervix
The cervix is the lower end of the womb (uterus). It is at the top of the vagina. It is about 2. 5 to 3. 5 centimeters (1 to 1. 3 inches) long. Th...
Read Article Now Book Mark ArticleA long, thin needle is inserted through the wall of the vagina (just below the uterus). A sample is taken of any fluid found in the space. The needle is pulled out.
How to Prepare for the Test
You may be asked to walk or sit for a short time before the test is done.
How the Test will Feel
You may have an uncomfortable, cramping feeling. You will feel a brief, sharp pain as the needle is inserted.
Why the Test is Performed
This procedure is rarely done today because a transvaginal ultrasound can show fluid behind the uterus.
It may be done when:
- You have pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis, and other tests suggest there is fluid in the area.
- You may have a ruptured ectopic pregnancy or ovarian cyst.
Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside the womb (uterus).
Read Article Now Book Mark ArticleOvarian cyst
An ovarian cyst is a sac filled with fluid that forms on or inside an ovary. This article is about cysts that form during your monthly menstrual cycl...
Read Article Now Book Mark Article - Blunt abdominal trauma.
Normal Results
No fluid in the cul-de-sac, or a very small amount of clear fluid, is normal.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Fluid may still be present, even if not seen with this test. You may need other tests.
A sample of fluid may be taken and tested for infection.
If blood is found in the fluid sample, you may need emergency surgery.
Risks
Risks include puncturing the uterine or bowel wall.
Considerations
You may need someone to take you home if you were given medicines to relax.
Reviewed By
John D. Jacobson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
Braen GR, Kiel J. Gynecologic procedures. In: Roberts JR, Custalow CB, Thomsen TW, eds. Roberts and Hedges' Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine and Acute Care. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 57.
Eisinger SH. Culdocentesis. In: Fowler GC, ed. Pfenninger and Fowler's Procedures for Primary Care. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 161.
Hur HC, Lobo RA. Ectopic pregnancy: etiology, pathology, diagnosis, management, fertility prognosis. In: Gershenson DM, Lentz GM, Valea FA, Lobo RA, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 17.