Overview
Culdocentesis is a procedure which checks for abnormal fluid in the space that is just behind the vagina, the posterior cul-de-sac. This procedure is done when pain occurs in the lower abdomen and pelvic regions, and other tests suggest that fluid may be present in the cul-de-sac. The test may also be done when a ruptured ectopic pregnancy or ovarian cyst is suspected.
Review Date 1/10/2022
Updated 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.