What to Expect During Your First Ultrasound: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Patients

Getting your first ultrasound is a big moment, whether it's for confirming a pregnancy or examining another health concern. The experience can spark excitement but may also cause anxiety. Knowing what to expect can help calm your nerves. This guide will lead you through each step, ensuring you're prepared and informed.

Understanding Ultrasound

An ultrasound is a safe medical imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images inside your body. While commonly used to observe fetal development during pregnancy, it also helps doctors examine other organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. In fact, more than 90% of pregnancies in the U.S. are monitored with at least one ultrasound.

Ultrasounds are non-invasive, typically painless, and do not involve harmful radiation, making them a popular choice for many medical evaluations.

Preparing for Your Ultrasound

1. Scheduling Your Appointment

Your ultrasound journey begins with scheduling. You will usually need a doctors order. Depending on the reason for your ultrasound, your healthcare provider will guide you on the best timing. For pregnancy ultrasounds, usually your first one will be a size and dating scan to determine how far along you are.

2. Understanding the Type of Ultrasound

There are several types of ultrasounds:

• Transabdominal Ultrasound: The most frequent type. A warm gel is applied to your abdomen, and a transducer captures images by being moved over the area.

  
  

• Transvaginal Ultrasound: Often used in early pregnancy or to assess female reproductive organs. A small probe is inserted into the vagina for detailed images.

  
  

Your provider will explain which type you will have and what that entails.

3. Following Pre-Appointment Instructions

Before your ultrasound, you may receive specific instructions:

• Transabdominal Ultrasound: No food or drink 6-8 hours prior ultrasound. Drink several glasses of water beforehand to fill your bladder, which helps get better images. Instructions will vary based on the exam you need.

• Transvaginal Ultrasound: Usually no prep is needed for this exam.

  
  

Following these instructions is crucial for achieving the best quality images.

What to Expect on the Day of Your Ultrasound

4. Arriving at the Facility

Plan to arrive at the ultrasound facility early. This will give you time to check in, fill out forms, and relax before your procedure. Being calm will enhance your overall experience.

5. Meeting the Technologist

When you're called in, a trained ultrasound technologist will greet you. They will explain the process and answer your questions. It's essential to feel comfortable, so ask for clarification on anything you're unsure about.

6. Getting Ready for the Ultrasound

Depending on the ultrasound type, you may need to change into a gown. For transabdominal ultrasounds, you can likely keep your clothing on, but for transvaginal ultrasounds, changing may be necessary.

7. The Ultrasound Procedure

Transabdominal Ultrasound

You'll lie on an examination table while the technologist applies warm gel on your abdomen to help the transducer glide easily. This gel enhances image quality. The technologist will move the transducer over your abdomen and may ask you to hold your breath or switch positions for clearer views.

Transvaginal Ultrasound

In this case, you will lie on an examination table with legs in stirrups. The technologist will insert a lubricated probe into your vaginal canal to take close-up images of the reproductive organs. While this can feel somewhat uncomfortable, it should not be painful. If you are experiencing pain, it is important to let your technologist know.

8. Duration of the Ultrasound

Most ultrasounds last about 20 to 30 minutes, but this duration might change based on the complexity of the examination. For example, a thorough fetal examination may require additional time.

9. After the Ultrasound

Once the ultrasound concludes, the technologist will clean off the gel and let you dress. Expect to receive instructions on when and how your results will be shared, usually through a follow-up appointment or a phone call.

Understanding Your Results

10. Receiving Your Results

Your images are read by a Board Certified Radiologist or healthcare provider in which your provider will review the images and share the results with you. If it’s a routine pregnancy ultrasound, results might be discussed at your next appointment, but for other concerns, your provider may call you sooner with important information.

11. What the Images Show

For pregnancy ultrasounds, you'll likely see your baby’s heartbeat, size, and position. In other ultrasounds, your doctor will use the images to look for any abnormalities or health conditions. Studies show that up to 50% of ultrasounds done for reasons like evaluating abdominal pain can detect other unrelated issues.

12. Next Steps

Based on your results, your provider will explain any necessary follow-up. This could mean more tests, monitoring, or reassurance that everything looks normal.

Common Concerns and Questions

13. Is the Ultrasound Safe?

Absolutely! Ultrasounds are considered a safe imaging option. They do not use ionizing radiation, which is why they are preferred, especially during pregnancy.

14. Will It Hurt?

Most patients find ultrasounds to be painless. You may feel moderate pressure during a transvaginal ultrasound, but discomfort should be minimal.

15. Can I Bring Someone with Me?

This is dependent on the facilities protocols. Many facilities encourage you to bring a friend or loved one for support during your ultrasound. Their presence can help alleviate any anxiety you may have.

A Positive First Step

Your first ultrasound marks a significant milestone, whether you are expecting a baby or focusing on your health. By knowing what to expect, you can approach your appointment feeling more at ease.

Open communication with your healthcare provider and the technician is vital. Don't hesitate to ask questions. With this guide, you're now better prepared for a smooth ultrasound experience.

Cherish this moment as an important step in your health journey!