What Is an Ultrasound? What to Know Before Your Scan

Ultrasound is a common medical imaging test that helps radiologists see inside the body. It is safe, non-invasive, and does not use radiation. Instead, ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of organs, tissues, and blood flow.  

Whether this is your first ultrasound or you have had one before, knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your appointment.

What is an ultrasound?

An ultrasound, also called sonography, is a diagnostic imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the body. A handheld device called a transducer, or probe, sends sound waves into the body. Those sound waves bounce back as echoes, and a computer turns them into images that can be viewed on a screen.  

Ultrasound can help doctors examine many areas of the body, including the abdomen, pelvis, thyroid, breasts, muscles, joints, and blood vessels. It is also commonly used during pregnancy and can help guide certain medical procedures when needed.  

Does ultrasound use radiation?

No. Ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images. This makes it a widely used imaging option for people of many ages, including babies, children, adults, and seniors.  

What happens during an ultrasound?

During an ultrasound, you will usually lie on an examination bed while our radiologist applies a small amount of gel to the area being scanned.

The gel helps the ultrasound probe move smoothly over the skin and allows sound waves to travel clearly between the probe and your body. The radiologist will gently move the probe over the area while images appear on a screen in real time.

You may be asked to turn slightly, hold your breath briefly, or stay still for a few moments so clearer images can be captured. Most ultrasound exams are straightforward and do not require any recovery time afterward.

Will the ultrasound hurt?

Most ultrasound scans are painless. You may feel light pressure as the probe moves over the area being examined. If the area is already tender or painful, you may feel some mild discomfort, but the scan itself is generally well tolerated.

The radiologist’s goal is to capture clear images while keeping you as comfortable as possible throughout the exam.

Who can have an ultrasound?

Ultrasound can be used for people of all ages, from babies to seniors. It is commonly used in many areas of healthcare, including abdominal imaging, pregnancy imaging, breast imaging, thyroid imaging, and musculoskeletal imaging.

Why might I need an ultrasound?

Your doctor may request an ultrasound to help investigate symptoms, monitor a condition, or gather more information about a specific area of the body.

Common reasons for an ultrasound may include:

* Abdominal or pelvic pain

* Swelling or lumps

* Pregnancy assessment

* Breast concerns

* Thyroid concerns

* Muscle, tendon, or joint problems

* Blood flow evaluation

* Follow-up imaging after another test

Ultrasound creates images in real time, which can be helpful when assessing movement, blood flow, or changes in soft tissue.  

Do I need to prepare for an ultrasound?

Preparation depends on the type of ultrasound you are having. Some scans require little to no preparation, while others may require fasting or drinking water before your appointment.  

For some abdominal ultrasounds, you may be asked not to eat or drink for a certain amount of time before your scan. For some pelvic or bladder-related scans, you may be asked to arrive with a full bladder.

Because instructions can vary, it is important to follow the preparation details provided by our team.

What should I wear?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment whenever possible. You may be asked to move or remove clothing from the area being scanned, and you may need to change into a gown depending on the exam. 

How long does an ultrasound take?

The length of the appointment depends on the type of scan and the area being examined. Many ultrasound exams are completed within a short appointment, but some may take longer if multiple areas are being scanned or more detailed images are needed.

Key things to remember

Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. It does not use radiation, can be used for people of all ages, and is commonly used to help examine pain, swelling, pregnancy, soft tissue concerns, blood flow, and many other medical conditions.

Some scans may require preparation, such as fasting or drinking water, so always follow the instructions given before your appointment.

Have questions about your ultrasound?

Our team is here to help. If you are unsure how to prepare for your scan or have questions about your appointment, contact us before your visit so we can guide you through the process.