Ensuring optimal readiness for an ultrasound examination involves following specific guidelines tailored to your unique circumstances. Be sure to review any instructions given by your medical practitioner or provided by our team. Additionally, consider the following steps: 1. Attire for Easy Access: Wear clothing that facilitates convenient access to the area intended for imaging. This choice streamlines the examination process. 2. Bring Previous Films: If you have undergone prior ultrasound examinations, remember to bring along any related films. These will aid in making insightful comparisons. 3. Special Considerations: Should you be managing diabetes, taking prescribed medications, or engaging with over-the-counter drugs or complementary therapies like vitamins, reach out to us for specialized preparation instructions. Your particular situation warrants tailored guidance. 4. Pediatric Ultrasounds: When an ultrasound involves infants, children, or adolescents (up to 18 years old) instructions may vary. Contact us to obtain instructions tailored to your child's age, ensuring their comfort during the procedure. Varied Preparation Procedures Different types of ultrasound examinations necessitate distinct preparation measures. Below are instructions for common examinations. While specifics may vary slightly depending on the clinic, we will provide precise details when you schedule your appointment. 1. Abdomen Ultrasound (Fasting): Refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing for six hours before the examination. This ensures clarity in the imaging area and proper visualization of the gallbladder. Small sips of water are allowed, along with the continuation of medication. 2. Female Pelvis Ultrasound: - External Pelvic Ultrasound: A full bladder is required for clear imaging, with the probe applied to the lower tummy area. Drink 1 litre of water an hour before the procedure and refrain from emptying until after the exam. - Internal Pelvic Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound, if required, is performed with a transducer probe inserted into the vagina, offering detailed examination. Typically recommended for patients above 18 years, it is best conducted between days 3 to 10 of the menstrual cycle. 3. Renal Ultrasound: - Kidney Related: Drink 2-3 glasses of water an hour prior to the procedure, refraining from emptying your bladder afterward. The enlarged bladder enhances examination accuracy. - Renal Arteries: Fast for 4-8 hours before the examination to ensure unobstructed imaging of renal arteries. 4. Early Pregnancy Ultrasound (<12 weeks): Drink 2-3 glasses of water an hour before the appointment and retain a full bladder until after the exam. 5. Pregnancy Ultrasound (17-22 weeks): Drink 2-3 glasses of water an hour before the appointment and retain a full bladder for the beginning of the scan. 6. Vascular Ultrasound: - Renal Arteries: Fast for 4-8 hours to prevent obstruction from food or fluid. - Aorta or Leg Arteries: Fast for 4-8 hours to minimize bowel gas interference. Preparing thoughtfully for your ultrasound ensures accurate and valuable results. Remember that tailored instructions will be provided based on your specific needs and the examination type.