A simple guide to ultrasound preparation, gel, probe pressure, Doppler imaging, internal examinations and receiving your results.
What is an ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of organs, blood vessels and soft tissues. A hand-held probe sends sound waves into the body and records the echoes that return. A computer converts those echoes into moving images.
Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation. It can be used to assess many abdominal, pelvic, breast, thyroid, vascular, paediatric and musculoskeletal conditions, and it can guide injections, biopsies and fluid drainage.
Before your appointment
Preparation depends on the type of ultrasound. Some examinations require fasting, some require a full bladder and many need no special preparation. Follow the instructions supplied for your booking rather than general internet advice.
MBR Health requires a referral from a GP or specialist. The referral should explain the clinical question so the correct ultrasound examination can be planned.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the area being examined.
- Bring or arrange access to relevant previous imaging and reports.
- Tell the clinic if you have had recent surgery, a biopsy or treatment in the area.
- Advise the clinic if you need help with mobility, communication or positioning.
During the scan
You will usually lie on an examination bed. Warm water-based gel is applied to the skin and the sonographer moves the probe over the area of interest. The probe may need to press firmly to obtain clear images, particularly when the area is deep or tender.
You may be asked to change position, hold your breath, move a joint or tense a muscle. If Doppler is used, you may hear pulse-like sounds while blood flow is measured. Some pelvic examinations may include an internal transvaginal or transrectal scan. This will be explained beforehand and performed only with your consent.
How long does it take?
Most ultrasound scans take approximately 15 to 45 minutes. Complex vascular, pelvic or musculoskeletal examinations may take longer because multiple structures, positions or blood-flow measurements are required.
After the scan and results
Most patients can return to normal activity immediately. The sonographer records images and measurements, and a specialist radiologist reviews the examination and prepares a report for the referring clinician. According to the current MBR Health website, results are generally available within two to three business days and images and reports are accessible through the patient portal after review.
Ultrasound may provide a confident answer, but it is not the best test for every condition. MRI, CT, mammography, X-ray, blood tests or biopsy may sometimes be needed.
Related Patient Guides
- PG3002 Preparing for an Ultrasound: Fasting, a Full Bladder and Other Instructions
- PG3003 Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Dynamic Tendon, Ligament, Nerve and Joint Assessment
- PG3004 Vascular and Doppler Ultrasound: Arteries, Veins and Blood Flow
- PG3005 Pelvic and Transvaginal Ultrasound: What to Expect
- PG3006 Breast and Axillary Ultrasound: Lumps, Symptoms and Follow-Up
- PG3007 Thyroid and Neck Ultrasound: Nodules, Lymph Nodes and Biopsy
- PG3008 Paediatric Ultrasound: A Guide for Parents and Carers
- PG3009 Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound and Elastography: Advanced Ultrasound Explained
- PG3010 What Ultrasound Can and Cannot Show: When MRI, CT or Other Tests May Be Needed
We have more detailed information on many interesting regenerative and radiological topics on our Insights page
Frequently Asked Questions
For other FAQs please visit our FAQs page
Is ultrasound painful?
Most scans are not painful. Firm probe pressure can be temporarily uncomfortable if the area is tender. Tell the sonographer if you need the pressure or position adjusted
Can I have ultrasound during pregnancy?
Diagnostic ultrasound does not use ionising radiation and is widely used during pregnancy when clinically indicated. The examination should still have a clear medical purpose and be performed by appropriately trained staff.
Why can the sonographer not always give me the result immediately?
The full examination may require review of all images, measurements, previous studies and the referral question before a radiologist finalises the report
| Important: The preparation instructions provided for your specific appointment take priority over this general guide. |
PATIENT GUIDE • PG-3001 [Patient information: A simple guide to ultrasound preparation, gel, probe pressure, Doppler imaging, internal examinations and receiving your results.]
