Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging exam that uses sound waves to evaluate soft tissues, organs, and blood flow. At iHealth Centre, ultrasound studies are performed by experienced technologists and interpreted within an integrated diagnostic setting.
Before your ultrasound appointment, please check the preparation required for your test. Different exams may require fasting, a full bladder, bowel preparation, or a combination of these steps.
Your appointment confirmation will clearly indicate which preparation applies. Following the correct instructions helps improve image quality and reduces the chance of needing a repeat visit.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment. If you arrive late or are not properly prepared, your appointment will be rebooked.
Preparation by Exam Type
Your appointment confirmation will tell you which preparation applies. Follow the instructions for your specific exam.
Abdominal ultrasound
- Do not eat or drink after midnight before your examination, ensuring at least eight hours of fasting.
- A small sip of water is permitted to take medication.
Pelvic and/or transvaginal ultrasound
- Start drinking one litre of water approximately two hours before your appointment and finish at least one hour beforehand.
- Keep your bladder full until the technologist advises you to empty it.
Combined abdomen and pelvic ultrasound
- Do not eat after midnight, ensuring at least eight hours of fasting.
- For bladder preparation, start drinking one litre of water two hours before your appointment and finish at least one hour beforehand.
- Do not empty your bladder until the technologist advises you.
Obstetric/pregnancy ultrasound
- A full bladder is required. Finish drinking one litre of water one hour before your appointment.
- In later pregnancy, patients who are uncomfortable may be allowed to empty their bladder after the initial images, as directed by the technologist.
Prostate/transrectal ultrasound
Both bowel and bladder preparation are required.
Bowel preparation
Use a Dulcolax suppository rectally two hours before your appointment. It is available over the counter and generally produces a bowel movement within 15–30 minutes.
If you plan to use an oral tablet instead, contact our ultrasound team to confirm the approved regimen before taking it.
Bladder preparation
Finish drinking one litre of water one hour before your appointment and do not empty your bladder until directed by the technologist.
Vascular ultrasound
No preparation is required except for lower arterial, aorta and renal artery examinations, which require six hours of fasting. Water is allowed.
Other general ultrasound
No preparation is required for musculoskeletal (MSK), thyroid, neck, breast, testes, lumps and hernia examinations.
Standard Transthoracic Echocardiogram
No special preparation is required. Wear comfortable clothing and avoid applying lotions or oils to your chest before the examination. You will be asked to undress from the waist up and wear a hospital gown.