Do I need to prepare before an ultrasound?

Do you need to prepare for an ultrasound?

In many cases, there is very little you need to do before an ultrasound. It depends on the type of scan you are having and which part of the body is being examined.

Your hospital, GP surgery or private clinic should tell you exactly what to do before your appointment. Always follow their instructions, as preparation can affect the quality of the images.

Common types of preparation

Some ultrasound scans require a full bladder. This is often the case for scans of the pelvis, bladder or early pregnancy. You may be asked to drink several glasses of water beforehand and avoid going to the toilet.

For other scans, such as an abdominal ultrasound, you may need to avoid food for a few hours before the test. This is because bowel gas and a full stomach can make it harder to get clear pictures.

For scans of the thyroid, breasts, testicles or muscles, no special preparation is usually needed. You can often eat, drink and take your usual medicines as normal.

What to wear and bring

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to move or remove if needed. You may be asked to change into a gown for the scan, depending on the area being checked.

Bring any appointment letter, hospital forms or a list of your current medicines if you have one. If you are having a pregnancy scan, it can also help to bring any notes from your midwife or maternity unit.

Can you take medicines before the scan?

In most cases, you can take your regular medicines as usual. If you have been told not to eat or drink before the scan, you may still be able to take tablets with a sip of water.

If you take blood thinners, diabetes medication or anything important for a long-term condition, check with your doctor or the imaging department first. They can tell you whether any changes are needed.

What happens if you are not prepared?

If you have not followed the instructions, the scan may still go ahead, but it could take longer or need to be rearranged. For example, an empty bladder may make a pelvic scan harder to perform.

If you are unsure about anything before your appointment, ring the clinic or hospital for advice. They would rather you ask than arrive unprepared.

Final tips

The most important thing is to read your appointment letter carefully. Ultrasound preparation is usually simple, but it does vary depending on the scan.

If you are pregnant, unwell or have any concerns about fasting or drinking water, contact the healthcare team beforehand. A quick check can help your appointment run smoothly.