Ultrasound also referred to as sonography is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that uses high- frequency sound waves to look inside the body creating real time images, showing movement of the internal organs as well as blood flow traveling through blood vessels. A transducer sends sound waves into the body and echoes are sent back to the transducer, which converts the sound waves into electrical signals creating a picture that is displayed on the monitor. The process is painless and does not use radiation.

• Check organs (liver, kidneys, thyroid, etc.)

• Monitor pregnancy

• Detect cysts, lumps, or fluid

• Guide procedures (like biopsies)

Preparation for an ultrasound varies on what body part you’ll have scanned.

You may be asked to remove certain pieces of clothing and/or change into a hospital gown.

Ultrasounds that involve applying the transducer over your skin (not in your body), follow these general steps:

1. You’ll lie on your side or back on a table.

2. The ultrasound technician will apply a small amount of water-soluble gel on your skin over the area to be examined. This gel does not harm your skin nor stain your clothes.

3. The technician will move the transducer over the gel to get images inside your body.

4. The technician may ask you to be very still or to hold your breath to create clearer pictures.

5. Once the technician has gotten enough images, they will wipe off any remaining gel on your skin thus completing your exam.

Preparation depends on the type of ultrasound you’re having:

• Abdominal ultrasound: Do not eat or drink for 6–8 hours before your exam to ensure clear images.

• Pelvic ultrasound: You may be asked to drink several glasses (34 ounces or 4 glasses) of water one hour before your appointment and arrive with a full bladder.

• Obstetric (pregnancy) ultrasound: Drink water beforehand as directed — a moderately full bladder helps improve image quality.

• Other ultrasounds (thyroid, breast, vascular, etc.): Usually no special preparation is needed.

We’ll provide detailed instructions when you schedule your appointment.

• Bring ID, insurance card, and medication list.

• Bring previous imaging reports if available.

• Ask questions if you feel anxious—the staff are here to help.

In most cases, a doctor’s referral is recommended so we can ensure the correct type of ultrasound is performed for your needs. However, some types of ultrasounds — such as elective or non-diagnostic scans (e.g., 3D/4D pregnancy ultrasounds) — may not require a referral. Please contact our office to confirm whether your specific exam requires one.

Most ultrasound exams take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of scan and the area being examined. We recommend arriving a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork.

If your ultrasound was ordered by a physician, results are typically sent to your doctor within 24–48 hours. Your doctor will review the findings with you and discuss any next steps.

For elective or non-diagnostic scans (such as keepsake pregnancy ultrasounds), you’ll be able to see your images immediately during your session.

Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties cover a very large geographic region of Southern California. We may charge a nominal fee if we are required to drive to a remote area. If you have concerns, please contact us and we’d be happy to discuss this with you.