A warm gel will be applied to your child’s stomach. The sonographer (a radiology technologist especially trained in ultrasound) will take pictures by moving a small object that looks like a microphone across the gel.

No. The examination is painless.

Because sound waves move through fluid very well, it is necessary to have a full bladder for the examination. The bladder pushes the gas-filled bowel out of the pelvis and gives us an excellent "window" to see into the pelvis.

We ask you to please follow these important instructions:

To obtain a full bladder for the ultrasound study, your child will be required to drink fluids (preferably non-carbonated). Please check the table below to determine how much fluid your child should drink.

Yes, if your child is not scheduled for any other exam. However, do not let your child urinate after drinking fluids.

If your child is scheduled for another exam and is not allowed to eat, do not let your child urinate for 6-8 hours before the study.

If your child’s bladder is full when the ultrasound exam is started, approximately 30-45 minutes should be allowed for completion of the pictures. If your child’s bladder is not full, several hours will then be needed.

After the examination (if your child is not scheduled for additional tests), you and your child are free to leave and participate in activities without restriction. A report will be sent to your physician, who will advise you of the results.