Dr. Chick David

Ultrasound

An ultrasound is a test using sound waves to look at parts of your body. You will not hear the sounds, but pictures will show up on the screen. An ultrasound is not an x-ray and does not cause pain.

Arrive on time for your test. This test takes 20 to 40 minutes.

During the Test

• You will wear a hospital gown and lie on a table.
• Warm gel is put on your skin. A wand is moved across the gel to take the pictures.
• You may need to hold your breath for some of the pictures.
• The staff checks the pictures before you go home. More pictures may be taken if needed.

If a box is checked for a certain part of your body, follow the extra instructions:

Abdominal: Do not eat or drink for 6-8 hours before the test.

Thyroid: Remove any jewelry around your neck. A rolled up towel is placed behind your neck during the test.

Breast: If you or your doctor felt a lump in your breast, you will be asked to point to it. The test can show if the lump is solid or filledwith fluid, called a cyst.

Scrotum or Testicle: You may need to stand up for some of the pictures. You may be asked to push as if you are having a bowel movement.

Pelvis: You must drink 32 ounces or 1 liter of water for this test so your bladder will be full. Finish drinking the water 1 hour before your test.

During the test, pictures will be taken. You will be asked to go to the bathroom to empty your bladder. More pictures are taken.

A second part of the test may be done with your feet up in stirrups. A probe will be put into your vagina to take more

pictures. The probe will then be removed.

After the Test

• Return to your normal activities.
• Test results are sent to your doctor. Your doctor will share the results with you.

Talk to your doctor or nurse if you have any question or concerns.