An ultrasound is a test that uses sound waves to take pictures of the inside of the body. This is a safe and painless test that does not expose you to any X-rays. It is done using a handheld device (transducer) that is placed on your abdomen or pelvis and moved around. The transducer sends out sound waves that reflect off your tissues and organs to create images on a computer screen.

Tell a health care provider about:

• Any allergies you have.

• All medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, eye drops, creams, and over-the-counter medicines.

• Any surgeries you have had.

• Any medical conditions you have.

• Whether you are pregnant or may be pregnant.

What are the risks?

There are no known risks or complications from having this test.

What happens before the procedure?

• Follow instructions from your health care provider about eating or drinking before the test.

• Wear clothing that is easily washable in case the gel used for the test gets on your clothes.

What happens during the procedure?

• You will lie on an exam table.

• Your lower abdomen and pelvis will be exposed.

• A gel will be applied to your skin. It may feel cool.

• The transducer will be pressed on your abdomen or pelvis and moved back and forth, through the gel, over the area to be examined.

• The transducer will take pictures. These will be displayed on one or more computer monitors that look like small TV screens.

• You may be asked to change your position.

• After the exam, the gel will be cleaned off.

What happens after the procedure?

• It is up to you to get your test results. Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test, when your results will be ready.

• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Summary

• An ultrasound is a test that uses sound waves to take pictures of the inside of the body.

• An abdominal or pelvic ultrasound may be done to check for cysts, masses, inflammation, kidney stones, or gallstones.

• During the procedure, a handheld device (transducer) will be placed on your abdomen or pelvis and moved around over the area to be examined.

• Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test, when your results will be ready.

This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.