Do you need an ultrasound? Medical providers use this imaging to assess and diagnose issues of the abdomen, breasts, uterus, heart, and other organs and body systems. They also use ultrasounds to track the progress of fetal growth and health during pregnancy. If your doctor recently recommended or prescribed this test, take a look at questions patients might have about ultrasound scans.

Will An Ultrasound Require Special Preparation?

The answer to this question depends on the type of scan you need and the reason for this imaging test. Many types of ultrasound won't require special pre-imaging preparation. But this doesn't mean your doctor won't provide you with instructions. 

Patients who need some types of pelvic ultrasounds may have to drink a specific amount of water before their test time. An abdominal ultrasound (and some other types of similar scans) may come with the opposite set of instructions. Instead of drinking water, you will need to stop all liquid or food intake before your test. Your medical provider will give you directions that include when to stop eating and drinking or how many hours you should leave in between your last meal and your imaging center appointment.

Will An Ultrasound Hurt?

Simply stated, no. An ultrasound is a non-invasive test. Also known as sonography, this type of imaging uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures. The technician or doctor will place a thin layer of gel on your skin and glide a probe (known as a transducer) over the area. Some types of scans, such as transvaginal ultrasound, require the use of a special probe that the technician inserts inside of your body. It's unlikely that you'll experience pain from either an external or internal ultrasound test.

How Long Does An Ultrasound Take To Complete?

The specific amount of time an ultrasound takes depends on a few factors. These include the type of scan the doctor ordered, the areas of the body, the images the doctor or other medical provider needs to see, your body, and the technician's skill level. According to the March of Dimes, a transabdominal (across the abdomen) ultrasound during pregnancy typically takes 20 minutes. Ultrasounds for other reasons or scans used to guide the medical provider during other tests may take longer.

Are All Ultrasound Images the Same?

All ultrasounds provide pictures of your body's internal structures. But the images may differ depending on the type of scan your doctor orders. As the name implies, a 3-D ultrasound creates a three-dimensional picture. This type of scan is often used during pregnancy. Instead of what may seem like a blurry or grainy image, a 3-D ultrasound looks like a clear photograph. 

Where Can You Get An Ultrasound?

Hospitals, doctors' offices, and healthcare centers provide patients with this service. For more information on ultrasound scans and appointment prep, contact your local imaging center. 

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