Preparing for your Ultrasound Appointment

Ultrasound Preparation

Ultrasound is a non-invasive and safe imaging technique commonly used to visualize internal organs and structures. The preparation process may vary depending on the specific type of ultrasound you’re having.

Here are some general guidelines:

1. Follow Instructions: We will provide you with specific instructions for your ultrasound. It’s important to follow these instructions closely to ensure accurate results. Some ultrasound/ imaging studies require different requests for the day of your appointment.
2. Wear Appropriate Clothing Depending on the area of the body being examined, you might need to wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing. In some cases, you might be asked to change into a gown.
3. Stay Hydrated (For Certain Ultrasounds): For abdominal and pelvic ultrasounds, you may be asked to drink a certain amount of water before the exam. A full bladder can help improve the visibility of certain structures. Your healthcare provider will provide you with specific instructions on how much water to drink and when to do so.
4. Fasting (For Certain Ultrasounds): If you’re having an ultrasound of the abdomen or pelvis, you may need to fast for a certain period of time before the exam. Fasting helps improve the clarity of the images by reducing gas and intestinal activity. Our office will provide you with instructions if your study requires fasting.
5. Remove Jewelry and Metal Objects: Metal objects, such as jewelry, watches, and body piercings, can interfere with the ultrasound imaging. It’s a good idea to remove these items before the procedure.
6. Notify the Technologist: Inform the ultrasound technologist if you have any allergies, especially to ultrasound gel or latex. Additionally, if you have any medical conditions or are pregnant, it’s important to let them know.
7. Relax and Breathe Normally: During the ultrasound, you’ll be asked to lie on an examination table. The technologist will apply a gel to your skin and use a handheld device called a transducer to capture images. Relax and breathe normally during the procedure.
8. Duration and Discomfort: Most ultrasounds are painless and relatively quick, typically taking around 15-45 minutes. You might feel some mild discomfort if the transducer is pressed firmly against your skin, especially if you have a full bladder.
9. Post-Exam: Once the ultrasound is complete, you can usually resume your normal activities immediately. The images will be reviewed by a radiologist, and your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during a follow-up appointment.