Preparation for an ultrasound depends on the type of exam prescribed by your doctor.
Some exams require fasting, others require a full bladder, and some require no special preparation at all.
Knowing these distinctions in advance prevents any unpleasant surprises on the morning of your appointment and ensures your images will be of the best possible quality for an accurate diagnosis.
What exactly is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a medical imaging technique that uses sound waves to produce images of your internal organs and tissues. It does not generate X-rays, making it completely safe, even for pregnant women.
It is one of the most common medical imaging exams in Quebec, prescribed for everything from pregnancy monitoring to evaluating the abdomen, pelvis, breast, or thyroid.
The exam is performed by a specialized technologist, and the images are then analyzed by a radiologist who prepares the report sent to your doctor.
Preparation varies depending on the type of ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound: fasting is often required
For an abdominal ultrasound, fasting for 4 to 6 hours is generally required before the exam. Food and drinks cause intestinal gas that interferes with image clarity. The exact fasting duration will be specified when you book your appointment.
Pelvic ultrasound: a full bladder
For a pelvic ultrasound, you will need to drink approximately one litre of water in the hour before the exam and refrain from urinating. A full bladder pushes the intestines upward and significantly improves visualization of the pelvic organs. Plan ahead to hydrate properly before leaving home.
Breast or thyroid ultrasound
These exams generally require no dietary preparation. You can eat and drink normally before coming to the clinic. Wear clothing that is easy to open at the neck or chest area to facilitate access to the region being examined.
Practical tips before your appointment
A few tips before an ultrasound apply to all types of exams and make your visit go more smoothly.
- Wear comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing. A loose blouse or t-shirt is ideal for abdominal or pelvic exams. Avoid dresses or one-piece outfits that make it harder to access the targeted area.
- Always bring your medical referral. In Quebec, a prescription from a physician or authorized healthcare professional is mandatory to undergo an ultrasound at a private radiology clinic. Without a referral, your appointment cannot take place.
- Continue taking your regular medications unless your treating physician advises otherwise. If you have any concerns about a specific medication or your particular health condition, call the clinic in advance to confirm.
The day of the exam: what to expect
An ultrasound is a completely painless exam. The technologist applies a clear conductive gel to the skin, then moves a probe over the area being examined. The images are captured in real time on a screen. The exam lasts an average of 15 to 30 minutes depending on the region being examined.
Results are sent to your treating physician within approximately 48 hours. In urgent situations, this timeframe may be shortened. According to the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ), the vast majority of ultrasounds prescribed by a physician are covered by public health insurance, making this exam accessible for most patients.
Book an ultrasound appointment in Montreal
At Léger Radiologie, wait times for an ultrasound in Montreal are among the shortest of any private clinic.
From the moment you call, our team will provide you with the preparation instructions specific to your exam.
Bring your referral and come to our clinic in the Ville-Marie neighbourhood, accessible by metro, bus, or car.
To learn more about our services: legerradiologie.qc.ca/en/#services
To book an appointment: 514 523-2121
legerradiologie.qc.ca/en/contact-us/
