The specific preparation for an ultrasound will vary depending on the type of scan requested. If you have existing medical conditions such as diabetes or heart failure, or if you have any other concerns, please contact us. 

Please wear loose clothing to your appointment. For some scans, you may be asked to change into a gown. You may also be asked to remove objects like watches or jewellery for your scan, so consider leaving any valuables at home. 

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient.  

Information for some of the more commonly requested general ultrasound examinations is listed below. 

• Upper abdominal scans 

Upper abdominal scans encompass the liver, pancreas, kidneys, gallbladder, spleen, and aorta. If you are having an upper abdominal scan, you will need to fast. 

Adults need to fast for at least 6 hours before their appointment, and children need to fast for 4 hours. An early morning appointment is recommended.  

• Pelvic and renal scans 

Pelvic and renal ultrasound scans assess the kidneys, bladder, and prostate in men and the kidneys, bladder, uterus, and ovaries in women. We recommend that you drink 1 litre of water an hour before your appointment and do not empty your bladder before your scan. 

You will be asked to lie down for your ultrasound, with a water-based gel applied to your skin on the relevant area.  

A sonographer will perform a dedicated assessment of the region of interest with a transducer that will be placed on the skin surface. Throughout the scan images will be acquired to support the diagnostic report.  

Some ultrasounds are performed by an internal examination, namely transvaginal pelvic scans. When arriving on the day at the clinic, you will be provided information regarding the internal examination for consent to be attained. During the appointment, the sonographer will also explain the process ahead of time and you will have the ability to discuss and questions or concerns. If you have a gender preference regarding your sonographer, please inform a staff member when you book your scan. You can request this for any ultrasound. 

Most simple ultrasound scans take about 15-20 minutes. 

Ultrasounds do not use ionising radiation, have no known risks, side effects, or complications, and are considered very safe.  

A general ultrasound does not require any specific after care. After your scan, you may continue with your normal daily activities, unless advised otherwise by your referring practitioner. 

Our friendly customer service team can advise you of all costs involved with your ultrasound, including any out-of-pocket costs. Please contact your local clinic with quote enquiries.