Radiology
Ultrasound
- Duration
- 20–40 minutes
- Radiation
- None
- Report
- Same day
- Referral
- Not needed
Overview
Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, to look at organs and soft tissue. It is painless, it is safe in pregnancy, and for most scans you are in and out within half an hour.
Some scans need a little preparation — an empty stomach for the gallbladder, a full bladder for the pelvis. The details are below; if you are unsure which applies, call us and we will tell you.
What to expect
- Check-in
We confirm the scan your doctor requested and any preparation.
- The scan
A warm gel and a handheld probe. Usually 20–40 minutes.
- Reporting
The radiologist reads the images and writes the report.
- Results to your doctor
Sent the same day, or handed to you if you are self-referred.
Prep & aftercare
Before: Abdominal scans: nothing to eat for 6 hours (water is fine). Pelvic scans: drink a litre of water an hour before and do not empty your bladder. Bring the request form if your doctor gave you one.
After: No restrictions — eat, drink and drive as normal. The gel wipes off and does not stain.
Also under Radiology