Before the Test

Preparation for an ultrasound test depends on the area of the body under study. Your doctor will provide specific instructions before your appointment. Most exams don't require any special preparation. Tests done in the abdominal area or involving organs of the digestive system may require that you not eat or drink anything for several hours before the exam. Still others may require that you drink plenty of fluids and avoid urination to create better contrast for imaging reproductive organs against a full bladder.

You will be asked to change into a hospital gown or remove clothing for the scan, as the ultrasound transducer must make direct contact with skin.  

During the Test

Most ultrasound tests are performed with the patient lying on a table. The area of the body under study will be exposed and a warm, water-based gel will be applied to the skin in that area. The technologist will then press the transducer firmly against the skin, moving it around to capture the best image. If the area under study was already tender, there may be some discomfort from the pressure of the transducer. Patients may experience some discomfort during procedures that require the insertion of the transducer into an orifice. Most ultrasound exams take a total of 30 minutes to an hour. At the end of the exam, the technologist will wipe the remaining gel from your skin.

After the Test

Unless you are instructed otherwise, when the exam is finished you are free to leave and resume your normal daily activities. Patients who received an injection of contrast agent prior to their exam may have some restrictions.