What is diagnostic ultrasound?

Diagnostic ultrasound is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of organs, tissues, and blood flow without using ionizing radiation.

Yes. Ultrasound does not use X-rays or ionizing radiation and is considered a very safe imaging procedure, including during pregnancy and for pediatric patients.

What conditions can ultrasound evaluate?

Ultrasound is commonly used to evaluate organs such as the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, thyroid, uterus, ovaries, prostate, blood vessels, heart structures, and fetal development.

Do I need to prepare for an ultrasound exam?

Preparation depends on the type of ultrasound exam. Some studies require fasting or drinking water beforehand. Akumin provides specific preparation instructions prior to each appointment.

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Ultrasound

Last Updated: April 2026

Ultrasound is a safe, versatile imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time pictures of the body’s internal organs and blood vessels. Since it does not use ionizing radiation, ultrasound is well suited for pregnancy and a wide range of routine and urgent evaluations. From assessing abdominal pain, monitoring fetal development, to life threatening blood clots; ultrasound delivers clear, dynamic information that helps your care team make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment.

What Is an Ultrasound?

Ultrasound, also called sonography, is a noninvasive imaging technique that uses sound waves above the range of human hearing to visualize soft tissues and moving structures. A handheld device known as a transducer sends sound waves into the body and receives the returning echoes; a computer then converts those echoes into images displayed on a monitor. This real-time capability allows your care team can see motion such as fetal activity, organ movement, and blood flowing through veins and arteries as it occurs.

How it works: A water-based gel is applied to the skin to help the transducer make secure contact and transmit sound waves efficiently. Different tissues reflect sound in unique ways. Fluid-filled spaces tend to appear dark, while solid tissues appear in shades of gray. Doppler ultrasound uses changes in sound wave frequency to visualize and assess blood flow of the waveforms in arteries and veins.

How it compares to other imaging: Unlike X-ray and CT, ultrasound does not expose you to ionizing radiation. Compared with MRI, sonography is typically faster, more accessible, and more cost-effective, though it does not pass through bone or gas-filled structures as well. It excels at real-time imaging of soft tissues, guiding procedures, and evaluating vascular flow. For many questions, ultrasound is the first-line study; if additional detail is needed, your provider may recommend MRI, CT, or X-ray.

Uses of Ultrasound

Ultrasound supports care across many specialties. Common applications include:

Prenatal care: Confirming pregnancy, estimating gestational age, monitoring fetal growth, assessing amniotic fluid, and evaluating placental position.
Abdominal imaging: Examining the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and aorta; checking for conditions such as gallstones, fatty liver, and kidney stones, as well as exploring potential causes of abdominal pain. Learn more about renal ultrasound to evaluate kidney health.
Endocrine and lymphatic evaluation: Evaluating the thyroid and surrounding lymph nodes, checking for nodules, enlargement, or other structural changes.
Pelvic imaging: Examining the uterus and ovaries, investigating pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding, and evaluating infertility.
Men’s health: Assessing the prostate and scrotum, including evaluation of testicular pain, swelling, or masses. Learn more about prostate ultrasound.
Vascular studies: Detecting blood clots, plaque, and aneurysms; assessing arterial and venous blood flow.
Cardiac imaging (echocardiography): Evaluating heart structure and function to help diagnose valve disease, cardiomyopathy, and the effects of a heart attack. Learn more about echocardiography.
Procedure guidance: Improving accuracy and safety for core needle biopsies and fine needle aspirations.

Emerging applications: Point-of-care ultrasound is increasingly used for rapid bedside assessments in emergency and primary care settings. Elastography measures tissue stiffness to help evaluate liver fibrosis and characterize lesions. High-intensity focused ultrasound is being studied as a noninvasive therapy for select tumors and conditions such as uterine fibroids.

Technology advancements: Modern systems offer 3D ultrasound for detailed structural assessment, as well as contrast-enhanced techniques for refined vascular imaging. Many practices also use 3D ultrasound to provide more comprehensive reproductive and anatomic evaluation when clinically appropriate. In addition, AI-assisted tools are being developed to support interpretation and improve consistency.

Why Is an Ultrasound Performed?

Your provider may recommend an ultrasound to help investigate symptoms such as abdominal pain, swelling, or unexplained bleeding, to evaluate abnormal lab results, or to follow up on findings from other imaging tests. Ultrasound is also commonly used to monitor pregnancy, assess pelvic pain, evaluate infertility, examine thyroid nodules, and assess blood flow in arteries and veins. Additionally, using ultrasound to guide procedures like biopsies and fluid aspirations can improve accuracy and safety.

Benefits of early detection: Because sonography provides real-time images without radiation, it supports early identification of disease and timely treatment. Early detection may reduce complications, shorten recovery time, and improve outcomes, particularly in pregnancy, vascular disease, and abdominal disorders.

Patient experience: Many people appreciate that ultrasound is quick, comfortable, and often provides immediate feedback. For example, a same-day vascular study can identify a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis) in a swollen leg and enable prompt treatment. During prenatal care, routine sonography helps confirm normal fetal development and identify issues that may need follow-up.

Preparing for an Ultrasound

Preparation depends on the type of exam. Some studies require no special steps, while others may involve adjusting your food or fluid intake. Your appointment reminder will include instructions tailored to your specific exam.

DIET AND MEDICATION GUIDELINES:

Abdominal ultrasound: You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for 6 to 8 hours before the exam to reduce gas and improve image quality.
Pelvic and obstetric ultrasound: You may be asked to drink water and arrive with a comfortably full bladder to better visualize pelvic organs and early fetal structures.
Medications: Continue your regular medications as prescribed unless your provider gives different guidance.

WHAT TO BRING AND WEAR:

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing; you may be asked to change into a gown depending on the exam area.
Bring a photo ID, insurance information, and any prior imaging reports if available.
Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Most exams take 20 to 45 minutes; specialized studies may take longer.

Learn More About Ultrasound Preparation

What Happens During an Ultrasound?

Step-by-step process: After check-in, a sonographer will verify your identity, obtain a patient history, and go over the details of your exam. You will then be positioned on a padded exam table, and a water based gel will be applied to the skin over the area being examined. The sonographer will move the transducer over your skin to capture images from different angles. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly, change positions, or remain still for optimal imaging.

Pelvic imaging options: For certain pelvic exams, a transvaginal ultrasound may be recommended to provide clearer views. This exam is performed using a transvaginal transducer that is inserted into the vagina. The transducer is covered with a sterile sheath and lubricated and is done only with your consent.

Comfort and duration: Most people find ultrasound comfortable. You may feel mild pressure from the transducer and coolness from the gel. Transvaginal or specialized exams can cause temporary pressure or minor discomfort but should not be painful. The gel is wiped off after the exam, and you can resume normal activities right away.

Who interprets your images: A sonographer performs the exam, taking measurements and evaluating the organs relevant to your exam. A radiologist or qualified physician interprets the images and sends a report to your referring provider. Urgent findings are communicated promptly; final reports are typically available within one to two business days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)›

Is ultrasound safe?

Yes. Diagnostic ultrasound uses sound waves rather than ionizing radiation, such as that used in X-rays and CT scans. When performed appropriately by a trained professional, it has no known harmful effects.

Can I eat or drink before my ultrasound?

It depends on the exam. Abdominal studies often require fasting for several hours, while pelvic or obstetric exams may require a full bladder. Follow the instructions provided with your appointment confirmation.

When will I get my results?

A radiologist reviews your images and sends a report to your provider, usually within one to two business days. Urgent results are communicated sooner.

Can ultrasound detect all problems?

Sonography is highly useful for many conditions involving soft tissues and blood flow. Some concerns may require additional imaging such as MRI, CT, or X-ray for a complete evaluation. Your provider will recommend next steps based on your results.

Will insurance cover my ultrasound?

Most medically necessary ultrasounds are covered by insurance, but coverage varies by plan. Check with your insurer about benefits, prior authorization requirements, and any out-of-pocket costs.

Contributors

Nikki Buskirk RDMS (AB, BR, OBGYN), RVT (VT)
Clinical Quality Manager

Nikki is a seasoned healthcare leader with a strong foundation in diagnostic medical sonography, holding specialty registries in Abdomen, Breast, OB/GYN, and Vascular Ultrasound. She brings experience in program development and has led initiatives focused on patient safety, regulatory compliance, and continuous quality improvement in Radiology.

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