What is ultrasound and how does it work?

Ultrasound uses sound waves and a computer to create images of internal organs and blood vessels and to monitor the progress of pregnancy. A tool called a transducer is placed over the area of the body being examined and emits sound waves. The sound waves bounce off these organs or structures in your body and their echoes are received by the transducer, which then sends the information to a computer. The computer analyzes the information and creates a moving image.

What happens during your ultrasound exam?

• A technologist will take you to the exam room, ask you some medical questions, and explain what you can expect during your test.
• Before your scan, you will change into a gown and be asked to remove all metal and plastic items from the part of your body being examined.
• A technologist will help you onto the examining table and position you comfortably for your ultrasound.
• The technologist will apply gel to the area of your body that will be examined.
• The technologist will place the transducer over the area of your body being examined.
• For some pelvic ultrasound exams, the technologist will use a vaginal transducer which creates clearer images of the organs in your pelvis.
• The exam usually takes about 30 minutes.

What happens when your test is complete?

• You can leave immediately after your test and resume your normal activities.
• The radiologist will review your exam and send the results to your physician. If urgent findings are uncovered, the results will be called into your physician immediately.