Clothing
An ultrasound may require you to remove articles of clothing, and you may be asked to put on a paper gown. Certain jewelry items might need to be taken off as they could disrupt the procedure. Loose clothing is required for most ultrasound types.
Before The Test
Upon arrival, you will be asked into the room after changing into a gown or removing clothing from the area being examined. During the procedure, you may be instructed to assume a specific position and maintain it for the duration of the test.
Pelvic Ultrasound: It is recommended to drink 34 oz or 1 liter of water one hour prior to your appointment and refrain from using the restroom.
Abdominal-Renal Ultrasound: Please refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum for 8 hours before your appointment.
Abdominal/Pelvis Ultrasound: It is advised to observe an 8-hour fasting period from eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum. Additionally, consume 34 oz or 1 liter of water one hour before your appointment, and refrain from using the restroom.
Transrectal Ultrasound: Preparation involves using a Fleet Enema or Glycerin Suppository two hours prior to the exam. Additionally, drink 20 oz of water one hour before the examination.
Vascular Ultrasound: No preparation required.
During The Test
A technician would place a lubricating gel onto the area being examined to ensure a device called a transducer makes contact with your skin. For some ultrasound tests (transvaginal and transrectal), the probe is inserted into a natural opening in the body. Most other ultrasound tests are done on the skin surface.
After The Test
You can remove the ultrasound gel with relative ease and no traces. You may go about your daily activities immediately after the test unless otherwise advised by our staff. The reports will be produced by the reading physician and shared with your referring doctor. You may discuss these results with your doctor at a follow-up appointment.
See more Details on Specific Preparations