You will be asked to sit or lie down for your ultrasound, and a water-based gel will be applied to your skin on the relevant area.  

Your sonographer will perform a dedicated assessment of the region of interest with a transducer, which is placed on the skin surface. Throughout the scan images will be taken to support the diagnostic report.  

Some ultrasounds are performed by an internal examination, namely transvaginal pelvic scans. In this instance, when you arrive at the clinic, you will be given information about the internal examination, and asked to provide consent. During the appointment, the sonographer will also explain the process ahead of time and you will have the ability to discuss any questions or concerns. If you have a gender preference for your sonographer, please let us know when you book your scan. You can request this for any ultrasound. 

Most simple ultrasound scans take about 15-20 minutes. 

The preparation for an ultrasound varies depending on the type of scan you need. If you have existing medical conditions such as diabetes or heart failure, or if you have any other concerns, please contact us. 

Please wear loose clothing to your appointment, ideally a shirt and pants or skirt. For some scans, you may be required to wear a gown. You may also be asked to remove objects like watches or jewellery for your scan, so consider leaving any valuables at home. 

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient.  

Preparation information for some commonly requested general ultrasound examinations is listed below. 

• Upper abdominal scans 

Upper abdominal scans encompass the liver, pancreas, kidneys, gallbladder, spleen, and aorta. If you are having an upper abdominal scan, you will need to fast. 

Adults need to fast for at least 6 hours before their appointment, and children need to fast for 4 hours. An early morning appointment is recommended.  

• Pelvic and renal scans 

Pelvic and renal ultrasound scans assess the kidneys, bladder, and prostate in men and the kidneys, bladder, uterus, and ovaries in women. We recommend that you drink 1 litre of water an hour before your appointment and do not empty your bladder before your scan. 

Ultrasounds are considered very safe. They do not use ionising radiation, and have no known risks, side effects, or complications.

General ultrasounds do not require any specific after care. After your appointment, you may continue with normal daily activities, unless advised otherwise by your referring practitioner. 

The cost of your scan depends on several factors, and our Customer Service Team can advise you of all costs involved with your ultrasound, including any out-of-pocket costs (if relevant).  

We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the time of your scan, or have another adult accompany you to the appointment to care for your child.

Children are not allowed in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area. 

Our staff need to maintain full focus during your examination to ensure the best possible care.