Ultrasound

Q. Why do I need to have a full bladder for a pelvic exam?
A. Some tissues block the passage of sound waves. A full bladder acts as a "window" for ultrasound by facilitating passage of sound waves through it, making the uterus and ovaries behind the bladder easier to see.

Q. Why can't I eat or drink anything prior to having an abdominal exam?
A. When you eat, drink, or even chew gum the gallbladder is stimulated to empty itself making gallstones impossible to see.

Q. How is ultrasound different than x-ray?
A. Ultrasound uses sound waves to acquire images, no ionizing radiation is used.

Q. Is there any risk if I am pregnant or breast feeding?
A. To date, no proven ill effects have been seen doing regular ultrasound exams on pregnant women. There is no risk to breast feeding mothers.