Getting ready for your scan
A little preparation can make your ultrasound smoother, quicker and more accurate. The exact steps depend on which part of the body is being scanned, so the most important rule is to follow the specific instructions given by your clinic. This guide explains the most common requests and why they matter, so you can arrive feeling calm and ready.
Do you need to fast
For some scans you will be asked not to eat for a number of hours beforehand. This is most common for scans of the abdomen, especially the gallbladder, the liver and the pancreas.
Why fasting helps
When you eat, the gallbladder squeezes and releases bile, which changes its shape and makes it harder to see clearly. Food and drink can also create gas in the stomach and bowel, and gas blocks sound waves. By fasting, usually for six to eight hours, your organs stay still and clearly visible. You can normally take your regular medicines with a small sip of water unless told otherwise. If you have diabetes or another condition that makes fasting difficult, let the clinic know in advance so they can advise you.
Do you need a full bladder
For scans of the pelvis, the lower abdomen and during early pregnancy, you may be asked to drink water and arrive with a full bladder.
Why a full bladder helps
A full bladder acts like a window. The fluid pushes nearby organs into view and lets sound waves travel through clearly, giving a much better picture of the uterus, the ovaries or the prostate. You will usually be asked to drink several glasses of water about an hour before the appointment and to avoid emptying your bladder until after the scan. It can feel uncomfortable to wait, but it really does improve the result. You will be able to use the bathroom as soon as the scan is finished.
What to wear and bring
Comfort makes the visit easier.
Clothing
Wear loose, comfortable, two piece clothing so the area being scanned can be reached easily. For an abdominal scan, a top and trousers or a skirt work well, since you can simply lift or lower the clothing rather than fully undressing. You may be given a gown for some examinations.
Documents and notes
Bring your appointment letter or referral, any previous scan images or reports, and a list of your current medicines. If you have allergies or a relevant medical history, have those details ready. Keeping past reports together helps the radiologist compare changes over time.
On the day
Try to arrive a little early so you have time to settle and complete any paperwork. Tell the staff if you are pregnant or think you might be, even though ultrasound itself is safe, because it may affect which scan is most useful. If you feel anxious, it is fine to say so. The sonographer can talk you through each step.
During the scan you will lie on a couch, gel will be applied, and the probe will be moved over your skin. Most scans take between fifteen and forty five minutes. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly or change position so the sonographer can capture the best views.
After the scan
The gel wipes off easily and you can return to normal activities straight away. There is no recovery time. The images are usually reviewed by a radiologist, who prepares a report for the doctor who referred you. Results are not always given on the spot, so do not worry if the sonographer does not discuss findings during the scan.
When to ask questions
If any part of the preparation is unclear, call the clinic before your appointment rather than guessing. Following the instructions closely means your scan is more likely to give clear answers the first time. And once your results are ready, talk to your doctor about what they mean for you, since they can put the findings in the context of your overall health.
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