Exam Preparation

Depending upon the part of the body being examined, you may be advised to drink water to fill the bladder or to be fasting for at least eight hours. Many ultrasound exams have no preparation required.

You should wear comfortable clothing on the day of your examination.

Abdominal Ultrasound (G.B., Liver, Pancreas)

• Do not eat or drink after 10 p.m. the night before the exam.
• Do not withhold medication – a tablet may be taken with a small amount of water.

Kidney and Bladder Ultrasound

Drink 20 oz. of water one hour prior to exam. Do not empty bladder until after exam. (Avoid caffeine and milk.)

Pelvic (transabdominal and transvaginal) and First Trimester OB Ultrasound

Drink 32-40 oz. of water one hour prior to exam. Do not empty bladder until after exam. (Avoid caffeine and milk.)

Second and Third Trimester OB Ultrasound

Drink 20 oz. of water one hour prior to exam. Do not empty bladder until after exam. (Avoid caffeine and milk.)