Your Guide to a Comfortable Ultrasound Experience

Having an ultrasound can often bring with it a mix of emotions—from curiosity to concern. At Xplore Radiology, we understand how important it is to feel comfortable and at ease during your ultrasound, and we want to ensure your experience is as stress-free as possible. 

Here are our top tips for how to prepare for a smooth and comfortable ultrasound appointment.

Understanding ultrasounds

An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. It’s commonly used to monitor the health of a foetus, diagnose conditions in organs like the liver and kidneys, or check the heart’s condition. Unlike other imaging techniques, ultrasounds don’t use radiation, which makes them the preferred choice for many diagnostic purposes.

Before your ultrasound

Preparing for your ultrasound begins before you even arrive at the clinic. Depending on the type of ultrasound, you may need to fast for several hours or ensure your bladder is full to improve the quality of the images captured. 

Your doctor will provide specific instructions based on the area of your body being examined.

What to wear

Choosing the right clothing can significantly impact your comfort level during an ultrasound. Always opt for loose-fitting, comfortable garments you can easily remove or adjust. For example,

• If you’re having an abdominal ultrasound, wearing a two-piece outfit will let you expose your abdomen without completely undressing. 
• You might also consider wearing items without metal fasteners or zippers in the examined area, as these can sometimes interfere with the process or need to be removed.
• Fabrics that stretch easily, such as leggings or a tunic, can also be ideal because they offer comfort and flexibility if you need to adjust your clothing to give the technician better access. 
• It’s also a good idea to wear older clothing as the gel used during the ultrasound can sometimes get on your clothes. 

Choosing the right outfit can ease your mind and reduce the need to change into a hospital gown, making your ultrasound experience more straightforward and less stressful.

During your ultrasound

When you arrive for your ultrasound, a skilled technician will guide you through and explain the process. They will apply a special gel to your skin, which might feel a bit cold initially. This gel helps transmit the sound waves more efficiently and creates clearer images.

You might need to change positions during the scan to help the technician get better images. Remember, relaxing and breathing normally is important because it can help reduce discomfort and anxiety. If you’re feeling nervous, don’t hesitate to communicate with your technician⎯they can provide reassurance and adjust the process to make you more comfortable.

After your ultrasound

Once your ultrasound is complete, the technician will wipe the conductive gel off your skin. This gel is water-soluble and should come off easily, but you may want to bring a small towel or wipes if you wish to remove any residual stickiness yourself. 

There are no restrictions on normal activities after an ultrasound unless your doctor advises otherwise, so you can immediately return to your daily routine. 

A radiologist will typically review your results and send a report to your doctor. The radiologist may look for specific markers or abnormalities, ensuring a thorough analysis of the images captured during your scan. Your doctor will then discuss the findings with you, usually during a follow-up appointment. 

This discussion is a crucial step as it helps to understand the context of the results and plan any necessary treatment or further diagnostics. During this meeting, it’s important to ask questions to understand your condition and the next steps.

Special considerations

Every patient’s needs and experiences differ, especially for pregnant women or individuals with certain health conditions. 

Always communicate your concerns to your healthcare provider before the procedure to accommodate any special requirements.

FAQ

For a seamless and comfortable ultrasound experience, trust Xplore Radiology. We prioritise your wellbeing, using state-of-the-art technology and a compassionate approach to ensure the best outcomes.

Contact us today to schedule your ultrasound and experience the peace of mind that comes with expert care.