What should I wear to an ultrasound appointment? Dress Code for Ultrasounds: What to Wear and What to Avoid

When preparing for an ultrasound appointment, choosing the right clothing can make your visit smoother and more comfortable. Whether you’re going for a routine pregnancy scan, an abdominal ultrasound, or any other imaging appointment, knowing what to wear can help the process go quickly and easily. This guide shares expert advice on ultrasound dress code, what to wear, and what to avoid so you can focus on your health—not your outfit.

Why your outfit matters at an ultrasound appointment

Wearing the right clothing is part of ultrasound appointment prep because it makes it easier for the technician to access the area being scanned. Certain types of clothing can slow down the process or even require you to change at the clinic. To help you prepare for your ultrasound scan, we’ve put together these key tips.

Best clothing for ultrasound appointments

Here’s what to wear to your ultrasound appointment:

• Loose-fitting clothing: Loose clothes make it easier to move or adjust your outfit so the technician can access your abdomen or other body areas without hassle.
  
  

• Two-piece outfits: Choose separates, like a shirt and pants or skirt, so you can easily lift your top for an abdominal scan or lower your pants for a pelvic ultrasound.
  
  

• Comfortable clothing: Look for soft fabrics and flexible waistbands that won’t press on your belly, especially if you need to drink water beforehand for bladder ultrasounds.
  
  

• Short-sleeve shirts: If your scan includes blood pressure measurements or an IV, short sleeves are easier for staff to work with.

Clothing to avoid at your ultrasound

To help your ultrasound appointment go smoothly, avoid these clothing choices:

• Dresses or one-piece outfits: These can be hard to adjust without fully undressing, especially for abdominal or pelvic scans.
  
  

• Tight or restrictive clothing: Tight pants or shirts may make it uncomfortable to adjust your clothing during the scan.
  
  

• Heavy layers: You might be asked to remove bulky sweaters or jackets, so dress in layers you can remove easily.

Scan day outfit guide: Tips for every ultrasound type

• Abdominal ultrasound: Wear a loose two-piece outfit so you can easily lift your shirt and lower your waistband.
  
  

• Pelvic ultrasound: A skirt or loose pants with an easy-to-move waistband will help. You may need a full bladder, so pick clothes that are comfortable around your waist.
  
  

• Upper body ultrasound: Wear a shirt with easy access to your chest or shoulders.
  
  

• Leg or vein ultrasound: Shorts or loose pants that can roll up will be convenient.

Additional imaging appointment tips

• Bring a sweater or light jacket in case the imaging room is cool.
  
  

• Remove jewelry near the area being scanned before your appointment.
  

• If you have questions about what to wear, contact the clinic ahead of time.

While Canadian Diagnostic Network provides specialized care, many reputable clinics offer similar treatments. Always seek multiple opinions before deciding on treatment.

By following these simple ultrasound dress code tips, you can feel prepared and comfortable, helping your scan go smoothly and reducing unnecessary delays.

Additional Information:

https://www.cancercareontario.ca/en/cancer-care-ontario/programs/screening-programs/ontario-breast-obsp

https://oarinfo.ca/patient-info/radiology-medical-services/ultrasound