How to prepare for an ultrasound examination?
Ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic method that uses high-frequency sound waves to display internal organs and structures in the body. Proper preparation for an ultrasound examination can significantly affect image quality and diagnostic accuracy. Although different ultrasound examinations vary in their execution, they all share a common point: the better prepared you are, the better results you will get.
Regardless of whether you are preparing for abdominal ultrasound, breasts or joints, you will find clear and simple instructions here. You are ready for a few minutes of reading that will save you time and ensure the best possible results for your examination.
Quick comparison of preparation by types of ultrasound
| Type of examination | Fasting | Full urethra | Special preparation | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abdominal ultrasound | Yes, 6 hours | No | Avoid foods that cause bloating | 15-20 min |
| Breast ultrasound | No | No | Without creams on the skin, 5th-12th day of the cycle | 15 min |
| Ultrasound of joints | No | No | Clean and accessible area | 15-20 min |
| Doppler of the neck vessels | No | No | No smoking for 3 hours, no caffeine | 20-30 min |
| Doppler vein leg | No | No | Without compression stockings | 20-30 min |
| Ultrasound of the kidneys/ureter | Partial | Yes | Drink 0.5L of water 1 hour before | 15-20 min |
Why is proper preparation for an ultrasound important?
Ultrasound diagnostics work based on sound waves that bounce off tissues in your body. The quality of the image depends on how well these waves can travel through the tissues. When you are not properly prepared, gas in the intestines, a full bladder, or other factors can obstruct the path of sound waves and impair visibility.
This means that the doctor can more easily detect any changes and make an accurate diagnosis. This is especially important in examinations of abdominal organs, where even a small amount of air in the intestines can obscure important structures.
Preparation also allows for a faster and more pleasant examination. When the organs are clearly visible, the radiology specialist can conduct the examination more quickly and immediately share their findings with you. This is why at Ultrazdravje we always emphasize the importance of following the preparation instructions.
General instructions for preparing for an ultrasound examination
Some basic rules apply to almost all types of ultrasound examinations:
Clothing
Choose comfortable clothing that is easy to remove or lift. Two-piece outfits are usually a better choice than one-piece dresses or jumpsuits. Avoid tight waistbands or complex fastenings.
Jewelry
Jewelry in the area to be examined must be removed before the examination. If you are coming for a neck examination, leave necklaces and chains at home. For an abdominal examination, remove belly button piercings.
Medications
If you are taking regular medication, you can usually take it on the day of the examination. Of course, there are exceptions, which we will explain for each type of examination. If you have any concerns about the medication, call Ordering and check with our staff.
Preparation for an abdominal and abdominal organ ultrasound
Preparation for abdominal ultrasound requires the most discipline, but the results are worth it. The basic rule is that you must fast for at least 6 hours before the examination. This means not only no food, but also no liquids, except for small sips of water if you need to take medication.
Why is fasting necessary?
Fasting is necessary because food in the stomach and intestines causes gas formation. Gas is the biggest enemy of a quality abdominal ultrasound image. When abdominal organs are surrounded by gas, sound waves cannot penetrate them, and the image becomes unclear. This is why the examination is usually scheduled in the morning, after you have fasted overnight.
The day before the examination
The day before the examination, avoid foods that cause bloating: beans, cabbage, broccoli, onions, carbonated drinks, and dairy products. You can have a light dinner that includes cooked meat, rice, or potatoes. If you have issues with gas, you can take activated charcoal or simethicone a day or two before the examination.
✓ Checklist before abdominal examination:
- ☐ Do not eat 6 hours before the examination
- ☐ Do not drink fluids 6 hours before the examination
- ☐ Avoid foods that cause bloating (the day before)
- ☐ Take activated charcoal if necessary
- ☐ Wear comfortable clothing
Specifics by organs
Gallbladder
If you are coming for a gallbladder examination, fasting is especially important. The gallbladder contracts after a meal, so it is easier to examine on an empty stomach. If you have eaten any food within six hours before the examination, the gallbladder will be empty and examining it will be nearly impossible.
Urethra and kidneys
During the bladder examination, the preparation is reversed. We need it to be full, as a full bladder pushes the bowel away and allows a clear view of the internal reproductive organs in women or the prostate in men. About an hour before the examination, drink half a liter of water and do not go to the bathroom.
How to prepare for a breast ultrasound?
Preparation for breast ultrasound is much simpler than preparing for an abdominal exam. You don't need fasting or any other special diets.
The best time for a review
Timing is particularly important for breast examinations in young women who are still menstruating. The best time for an examination is from the fifth to the twelfth day of the menstrual cycle, right after menstruation. During this time, the hormonal influence is minimal, and the breast tissue is less swollen and sensitive. This allows for a clearer image and a more comfortable examination.
Skin preparation
The skin on the chest should be clean, without creams, lotions, or powder deodorants. These substances can create a shadow or unclear appearance in the image. We recommend showering with plain water and soap on the day of the examination, but do not use any additional products on the chest area.
If you have any symptoms such as a lump, pain, or discharge from the nipple, make a note of it and inform your doctor before the examination. Also, bring any previous breast examination results with you if you have them.
Preparation for ultrasound of joints and soft tissues
For ultrasound of the joints and ultrasound of soft tissues Special preparation is usually not required. You can eat and drink normally, as these examinations review surface structures that are not affected by the contents of the stomach.
Clothing
It is important that the area to be examined is clean and accessible. If you are coming for a knee examination, wear shorts or light sweatpants that can be rolled up. For a shoulder examination, choose a sleeveless shirt or clothing with an open neckline. If possible, the area should be free of dressings, patches, or bandages.
Physical activity
Joint mobility before the examination is safe. You can move normally and perform your daily activities. If your joints are causing you pain, you can take regular pain medication.
Athletes coming for a check-up after an injury can continue with light activities if the pain allows. However, it is better not to engage in intense training the day before the check-up, as it can worsen swelling and complicate the examination.
Preparation for Doppler vascular examination
Doppler vascular examination, such as doppler of the neck vessels or Doppler of the limbs, has some special requirements.
Smoking and caffeine
The most important thing is to refrain from smoking at least three hours before the examination. Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, which can skew measurement results and prevent us from accurately assessing the condition of your blood vessels. Also, avoid coffee and energy drinks a few hours before the examination, as caffeine can affect blood pressure and flow.
Clothing
Clothing should be light and loose, especially around the neck and legs. Remove necklaces, scarves, and ties for a neck vein examination. For a leg vein examination, we need access to the entire leg, so shorts or sportswear are the best choice. Do not wear tight socks or compression stockings on the day of the examination.
Medications
If you are taking medication for blood pressure, heart conditions, or blood thinning, do not skip them. You can take them completely normally. In fact, we want to see how your vessels function in their usual, treated state. Bring a list of all the medications you are taking.
The day before the examination, avoid intense physical exertion and alcohol, as these factors can affect blood flow.
Special Preparations for Children
When preparing a child for an ultrasound examination, the most important thing is to mentally prepare them for the new experience. Simply explain to the child that the doctor will use a small device to see what is happening inside their body. Emphasize that the examination does not hurt and does not involve any needles or injections.
How to Explain a Check-up to Children
Younger children can be calmed with stories. Tell them that the doctor will apply a special ointment, which is a bit cold, on their tummy or another place, and then with a device similar to a TV remote, will watch the image on the screen. Older children can even watch the screen during the examination, which usually interests them a lot.
Fasting times for children
| Age | Fasting time |
|---|---|
| Infants (up to 1 year) | 3 hours |
| Toddlers (1-3 years) | 4 hours |
| Older children (over 3 years) | 6 hours |
Bring your child's favorite toy or blanket that gives them a sense of security. Parents can stay with the child throughout the entire examination. At Ultrazdravje, we have an experienced pediatric radiologist who is an expert in working with children.
What to bring with you to the appointment?
✓ Bring with you:
- ☐ Personal document
- ☐ Health insurance card
- ☐ Previous ultrasound reports (if available)
- ☐ CT, MRI, or X-ray reports (if applicable)
- ☐ Laboratory results
- ☐ List of all medications with dosages
- ☐ Doctor's referral (if you have one)
Although we operate on a self-pay basis and do not accept ZZZS referrals, some insurance companies, such as Triglav, Generali, Sava, Vita, Prva, and Merkur, cover the costs of our examinations. Check the terms of your supplementary insurance.
All previous medical reports related to the reason for your examination are extremely helpful. This information helps us understand your medical history and compare any changes over time. If you have them in electronic form, you can bring them on a USB drive or smartphone.
What can you expect during the examination?
When you arrive at Ultrazdravje, our friendly staff will welcome you and check your preparation. Then we will ask you to settle on the examination table. For most examinations, you will lie on your back, but sometimes we will ask you to turn on your side or assume another position for a better view of a specific organ.
Review process
A radiology specialist will apply a clear gel to your skin, which enhances the transmission of sound waves. This gel is water-based, non-irritating, and may be a bit cold. The doctor will then gently press and glide the ultrasound probe over the area being examined. You might feel slight pressure, but the examination is not painful.
Duration of the examination
The duration of the examination depends on the type of examination:
- Abdominal ultrasound: 15-20 minutes
- Breast ultrasound: approximately 15 minutes
- Doppler examinations: 20-30 minutes
Our experienced radiology specialists they take the time to thoroughly review everything necessary and immediately inform you of their findings after the review.
After the examination, you can simply wipe off the gel with a paper towel, get dressed, and continue with your day. No recovery or special measures are needed after the examination.
Preparation for an ultrasound examination is not complicated, but it can significantly impact the success of the diagnosis. By following the instructions in this guide, you will ensure that your examination at Ultrazdravje goes smoothly and that you get the best possible results.
Our location in the center of Ljubljana, right next to the main railway station, provides easy access, and our experienced radiology specialists ensure professional care without waiting lines.
If you have any questions about the preparation or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact via phone or online.
How to prepare for an ultrasound examination?
Ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic method that uses high-frequency sound waves to display internal organs and structures in the body. Proper preparation for an ultrasound examination can significantly affect image quality and diagnostic accuracy. Although different ultrasound examinations vary in their execution, they all share a common point: the better prepared you are, the better results you will get.
Regardless of whether you are preparing for abdominal ultrasound, breasts or joints, you will find clear and simple instructions here. You are ready for a few minutes of reading that will save you time and ensure the best possible results for your examination.
Quick comparison of preparation by types of ultrasound
| Type of examination | Fasting | Full urethra | Special preparation | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abdominal ultrasound | Yes, 6 hours | No | Avoid foods that cause bloating | 15-20 min |
| Breast ultrasound | No | No | Without creams on the skin, 5th-12th day of the cycle | 15 min |
| Ultrasound of joints | No | No | Clean and accessible area | 15-20 min |
| Doppler of the neck vessels | No | No | No smoking for 3 hours, no caffeine | 20-30 min |
| Doppler vein leg | No | No | Without compression stockings | 20-30 min |
| Ultrasound of the kidneys/ureter | Partial | Yes | Drink 0.5L of water 1 hour before | 15-20 min |
Why is proper preparation for an ultrasound important?
Ultrasound diagnostics work based on sound waves that bounce off tissues in your body. The quality of the image depends on how well these waves can travel through the tissues. When you are not properly prepared, gas in the intestines, a full bladder, or other factors can obstruct the path of sound waves and impair visibility.
This means that the doctor can more easily detect any changes and make an accurate diagnosis. This is especially important in examinations of abdominal organs, where even a small amount of air in the intestines can obscure important structures.
Preparation also allows for a faster and more pleasant examination. When the organs are clearly visible, the radiology specialist can conduct the examination more quickly and immediately share their findings with you. This is why at Ultrazdravje we always emphasize the importance of following the preparation instructions.
General instructions for preparing for an ultrasound examination
Some basic rules apply to almost all types of ultrasound examinations:
Clothing
Choose comfortable clothing that is easy to remove or lift. Two-piece outfits are usually a better choice than one-piece dresses or jumpsuits. Avoid tight waistbands or complex fastenings.
Jewelry
Jewelry in the area to be examined must be removed before the examination. If you are coming for a neck examination, leave necklaces and chains at home. For an abdominal examination, remove belly button piercings.
Medications
If you are taking regular medication, you can usually take it on the day of the examination. Of course, there are exceptions, which we will explain for each type of examination. If you have any concerns about the medication, call Ordering and check with our staff.
Preparation for an abdominal and abdominal organ ultrasound
Preparation for abdominal ultrasound requires the most discipline, but the results are worth it. The basic rule is that you must fast for at least 6 hours before the examination. This means not only no food, but also no liquids, except for small sips of water if you need to take medication.
Why is fasting necessary?
Fasting is necessary because food in the stomach and intestines causes gas formation. Gas is the biggest enemy of a quality abdominal ultrasound image. When abdominal organs are surrounded by gas, sound waves cannot penetrate them, and the image becomes unclear. This is why the examination is usually scheduled in the morning, after you have fasted overnight.
The day before the examination
The day before the examination, avoid foods that cause bloating: beans, cabbage, broccoli, onions, carbonated drinks, and dairy products. You can have a light dinner that includes cooked meat, rice, or potatoes. If you have issues with gas, you can take activated charcoal or simethicone a day or two before the examination.
✓ Checklist before abdominal examination:
- ☐ Do not eat 6 hours before the examination
- ☐ Do not drink fluids 6 hours before the examination
- ☐ Avoid foods that cause bloating (the day before)
- ☐ Take activated charcoal if necessary
- ☐ Wear comfortable clothing
Specifics by organs
Gallbladder
If you are coming for a gallbladder examination, fasting is especially important. The gallbladder contracts after a meal, so it is easier to examine on an empty stomach. If you have eaten any food within six hours before the examination, the gallbladder will be empty and examining it will be nearly impossible.
Urethra and kidneys
During the bladder examination, the preparation is reversed. We need it to be full, as a full bladder pushes the bowel away and allows a clear view of the internal reproductive organs in women or the prostate in men. About an hour before the examination, drink half a liter of water and do not go to the bathroom.
How to prepare for a breast ultrasound?
Preparation for breast ultrasound is much simpler than preparing for an abdominal exam. You don't need fasting or any other special diets.
The best time for a review
Timing is particularly important for breast examinations in young women who are still menstruating. The best time for an examination is from the fifth to the twelfth day of the menstrual cycle, right after menstruation. During this time, the hormonal influence is minimal, and the breast tissue is less swollen and sensitive. This allows for a clearer image and a more comfortable examination.
Skin preparation
The skin on the chest should be clean, without creams, lotions, or powder deodorants. These substances can create a shadow or unclear appearance in the image. We recommend showering with plain water and soap on the day of the examination, but do not use any additional products on the chest area.
If you have any symptoms such as a lump, pain, or discharge from the nipple, make a note of it and inform your doctor before the examination. Also, bring any previous breast examination results with you if you have them.
Preparation for ultrasound of joints and soft tissues
For ultrasound of the joints and ultrasound of soft tissues Special preparation is usually not required. You can eat and drink normally, as these examinations review surface structures that are not affected by the contents of the stomach.
Clothing
It is important that the area to be examined is clean and accessible. If you are coming for a knee examination, wear shorts or light sweatpants that can be rolled up. For a shoulder examination, choose a sleeveless shirt or clothing with an open neckline. If possible, the area should be free of dressings, patches, or bandages.
Physical activity
Joint mobility before the examination is safe. You can move normally and perform your daily activities. If your joints are causing you pain, you can take regular pain medication.
Athletes coming for a check-up after an injury can continue with light activities if the pain allows. However, it is better not to engage in intense training the day before the check-up, as it can worsen swelling and complicate the examination.
Preparation for Doppler vascular examination
Doppler vascular examination, such as doppler of the neck vessels or Doppler of the limbs, has some special requirements.
Smoking and caffeine
The most important thing is to refrain from smoking at least three hours before the examination. Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, which can skew measurement results and prevent us from accurately assessing the condition of your blood vessels. Also, avoid coffee and energy drinks a few hours before the examination, as caffeine can affect blood pressure and flow.
Clothing
Clothing should be light and loose, especially around the neck and legs. Remove necklaces, scarves, and ties for a neck vein examination. For a leg vein examination, we need access to the entire leg, so shorts or sportswear are the best choice. Do not wear tight socks or compression stockings on the day of the examination.
Medications
If you are taking medication for blood pressure, heart conditions, or blood thinning, do not skip them. You can take them completely normally. In fact, we want to see how your vessels function in their usual, treated state. Bring a list of all the medications you are taking.
The day before the examination, avoid intense physical exertion and alcohol, as these factors can affect blood flow.
Special Preparations for Children
When preparing a child for an ultrasound examination, the most important thing is to mentally prepare them for the new experience. Simply explain to the child that the doctor will use a small device to see what is happening inside their body. Emphasize that the examination does not hurt and does not involve any needles or injections.
How to Explain a Check-up to Children
Younger children can be calmed with stories. Tell them that the doctor will apply a special ointment, which is a bit cold, on their tummy or another place, and then with a device similar to a TV remote, will watch the image on the screen. Older children can even watch the screen during the examination, which usually interests them a lot.
Fasting times for children
| Age | Fasting time |
|---|---|
| Infants (up to 1 year) | 3 hours |
| Toddlers (1-3 years) | 4 hours |
| Older children (over 3 years) | 6 hours |
Bring your child's favorite toy or blanket that gives them a sense of security. Parents can stay with the child throughout the entire examination. At Ultrazdravje, we have an experienced pediatric radiologist who is an expert in working with children.
What to bring with you to the appointment?
✓ Bring with you:
- ☐ Personal document
- ☐ Health insurance card
- ☐ Previous ultrasound reports (if available)
- ☐ CT, MRI, or X-ray reports (if applicable)
- ☐ Laboratory results
- ☐ List of all medications with dosages
- ☐ Doctor's referral (if you have one)
Although we operate on a self-pay basis and do not accept ZZZS referrals, some insurance companies, such as Triglav, Generali, Sava, Vita, Prva, and Merkur, cover the costs of our examinations. Check the terms of your supplementary insurance.
All previous medical reports related to the reason for your examination are extremely helpful. This information helps us understand your medical history and compare any changes over time. If you have them in electronic form, you can bring them on a USB drive or smartphone.
What can you expect during the examination?
When you arrive at Ultrazdravje, our friendly staff will welcome you and check your preparation. Then we will ask you to settle on the examination table. For most examinations, you will lie on your back, but sometimes we will ask you to turn on your side or assume another position for a better view of a specific organ.
Review process
A radiology specialist will apply a clear gel to your skin, which enhances the transmission of sound waves. This gel is water-based, non-irritating, and may be a bit cold. The doctor will then gently press and glide the ultrasound probe over the area being examined. You might feel slight pressure, but the examination is not painful.
Duration of the examination
The duration of the examination depends on the type of examination:
- Abdominal ultrasound: 15-20 minutes
- Breast ultrasound: approximately 15 minutes
- Doppler examinations: 20-30 minutes
Our experienced radiology specialists they take the time to thoroughly review everything necessary and immediately inform you of their findings after the review.
After the examination, you can simply wipe off the gel with a paper towel, get dressed, and continue with your day. No recovery or special measures are needed after the examination.
Preparation for an ultrasound examination is not complicated, but it can significantly impact the success of the diagnosis. By following the instructions in this guide, you will ensure that your examination at Ultrazdravje goes smoothly and that you get the best possible results.
Our location in the center of Ljubljana, right next to the main railway station, provides easy access, and our experienced radiology specialists ensure professional care without waiting lines.
If you have any questions about the preparation or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact via phone or online.