A Simple Guide to
Ultrasounds
Have an ultrasound examination and wondering what’s in store?
This straightforward guide will walk you through the process step by step, so you’re well-prepared for your ultrasound appointment.
Table of Contents
Image credit: Lime Radiology
What's an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a painless and safe medical test that uses sound waves to create images of the inside of your body.
These images help doctors get a closer look at your organs and tissues.
Before the Ultrasound
When you arrive at the ultrasound appointment, your healthcare team will guide you through everything.
Depending on what part of your body needs the ultrasound, you might need to wear a hospital gown.
They’ll explain everything and make sure you’re comfortable.
During the Ultrasound
The Sonographer will explain the procedure you are having and answer any questions you have.
- You'll lie down on a comfy table, and a clear, water based gel will be applied to the skin over the area to be scanned to improve the transmission of sound waves between the body and the ultrasound transducer.
- They'll gently move it over your skin, and this device sends out special sound waves. These waves bounce back, and a computer turns them into images on a screen.
- On occasion, a radiologist may need to speak with you and perform some ultrasound scanning as well, to clarify what has been shown in the images and ensure the question asked by your referring doctor is answered accurately.
Making You Feel at Ease
Staying Relaxed and Still
Making You Feel at Ease
Got any questions or worries? Chat with your healthcare team before the ultrasound.
They’re there to help and want you to feel as relaxed as possible. They might offer pillows or cushions to keep you cozy during the test.
Staying Relaxed and Still
While the ultrasound happens, try to stay as still as you can.
This helps create clear images that doctors can use to understand what’s happening inside you. The sonographer will guide you and let you know if they need you to move or shift a bit.
After the Ultrasound
Once your ultrasound is done, you can change back into your own clothes and continue with your day as usual. There’s no special recovery time needed.
Results and What's Next
A radiologists will interpret the ultrasound and provide your referring doctor with a comprehensive report about the findings.
It is very important you book a timely follow-up appointment with your referring doctor or health care provider to discuss your results.
Patient Safety
Ultrasound is a safe examination which provides excellent imaging without any known risks.
There are no known side effects from having a diagnostic ultrasound scan performed for medical imaging purposes.
Your Sonographer will apply techniques to ensure that your scan is a safe procedure. For this reason, your scan should only be performed by an accredited sonographer, or trained medical practitioner, and a scan should only be performed when clinically indicated.
Not all causes of pain show on ultrasound, so further testing may be required.
Ultrasound does not involve ionising radiation, making it ideal for pregnant women, their babies, and children. The sonographer will set the equipment to the lowest intensity necessary to achieve high quality images.
The results of your scan will be sent directly to your referring Doctor, and it is very important you book a timely follow-up appointment to discuss your results.
In Summary
Ultrasound examinations are a gentle way for doctors to see inside your body.
- Just relax
- Follow the instructions
- Your comfort and health are their top priorities.
Disclaimer: Please note, if you have any questions or reservations about an upcoming radiology scan, it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider, who can address your concerns directly. This is general information, not tailored to a specific individual. Please read our Terms and Conditions.