Be Prepared . . .

The sonographer may ask about:

• Previous ultrasounds
• Previous surgeries
• Symptoms
• Date of first day of last menstrual cycle
• Pregnancies

Before Your Test . . .

Your bladder must be very full for this test. This is the only way to get clear images. In order to obtain a full bladder, you must drink a minimum of 32 ounces of water. To keep the test from being delayed or canceled, make sure you finish drinking all 32 ounces one hour prior to your exam time.

Arrive 30 minutes early to register at the outpatient desk. If your bladder does not feel full, drink more water to avoid any delay in completing your test.

Do not empty your bladder until after the test.

If you are pregnant, after the 13th week you only need to drink 16 ounces of water.

During Your Test . . .

You will lie on your back with your abdomen exposed. Non-greasy gel will be applied to your skin to improve the contact between a hand-held device called a transducer and your skin. High frequency sound waves pass through the body from the transducer. The transducer is connected at the other end to a computer with a display screen. As the sonographer moves the transducer across your abdomen and pelvis, sound waves pass through the body and are reflected by the body organs or baby to create echoes. The computer changes these echoes into images.

In some cases, your test may include a second part to get close-up images. This is called a vaginal ultrasound. You will empty your bladder before this test, then lie on your back with your knees raised. A slender, shielded probe covered with non-greasy gel will be placed inside your vagina, or you may be asked to insert the probe yourself, just as you would a tampon. Movement of the probe should not be painful. Again, images will appear on the screen. If you have been experiencing abnormal bleeding, a careful sonogram will not be harmful and may be helpful in determining the cause of the bleeding.

After Your Test . . .

Before leaving, you may need to wait briefly while the images are being reviewed. You can return to your normal routine right after the test.