Exam Preparation:
Fetal or Obstetric Ultrasound

Evaluates the size and age of a fetus and assesses its growth, development and well-being during pregnancy. Fetal Ultrasound can be used to detect some, but not all, fetal abnormalities. This screening allows appropriate treatment to be given during pregnancy and childbirth. General Ultrasound Exam Guidelines are listed below.

Preparation

• Drink two 8 oz. glasses of non-carbonated fluids 1 hour prior to your exam.
• Please do not empty your bladder prior to the exam. Your bladder must be full in order to better image the anatomy of your baby. To obtain images of the necessary internal structures, the sound waves must first travel through your bladder. A full bladder enables the ultrasound to produce better images of the areas being studied.
• Allow 45 minutes for the exam.

Consult the Ultrasound Exam Guidelines below for more information.

General Ultrasound Exam Guidelines:

• Prior to your scheduled appointment, SMI will call you to discuss specific instructions, review your health and insurance information and answer any questions.
• Follow the specific preparation instructions listed above for your particular type of ultrasound exam. These may include dietary restrictions and instructions on drinking fluids. Take your medication as usual (unless your physician has given you other instructions).
• Leave your valuables at home.
• Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing. For some exams, you may need to change into a hospital gown or scrubs.
• Please notify the technologist if you are pregnant or could be pregnant.
• Please bring all relevant prior examination films or studies (CT, MRI, ultrasound, x-rays, etc.) with you on the day of your exam.
• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your exam.

What to Expect During the Exam

• Most ultrasound exams are painless, fast and easy with no side effects. Allow between 45-90 minutes for the exam, depending on the area of the body being imaged.
• You will be positioned on a cushioned examination table. The technologist will apply a warm clear gel to the skin above the anatomic structure to be studied. The gel acts as a conductor, eliminating air bubbles between the transducer and your body.
• The transducer, a hand-held device which sends and receives ultrasound signals, is pressed against the skin and swept back and forth until the desired images are captured. There may be varying degrees of discomfort from pressure as the technologist guides the transducer over the body, especially if you are required to have a full bladder for the exam.
• Certain pelvic or obstetrical exams (transvaginal) utilize a special transducer that is inserted into the vagina for more detailed imaging.
• The ultrasound images are captured on a television-like monitor and transferred to film or videotape for a radiologist to review and interpret.

What to Expect After the Exam

• You may leave as soon as the exam is completed and resume normal activities.
• Your normal diet may be resumed.
• Your referring physician will receive a report and pictures detailing the findings of your exam within 24 hours. You should contact your doctor to discuss the results.

For more information on Ultrasound, check out the Common Questions section of this site.