Ultrasound — Safe, Radiation-Free Imaging
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of organs, blood vessels, and soft tissues — with zero radiation exposure. Safe for all ages, including pregnancy.
What Is an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound (also called sonography) uses sound waves to create live images of the inside of your body. A small handheld device called a transducer is placed on your skin with a warm gel — it sends sound waves into your body and captures the echoes to build an image. It's completely painless, uses no radiation, and provides real-time moving images, making it ideal for evaluating blood flow, organ function, and pregnancy.
What Can Ultrasound Diagnose?
- Abdominal conditions (gallstones, liver disease, kidney problems)
- Thyroid nodules and enlargement
- Pregnancy monitoring (all trimesters)
- Pelvic conditions (ovarian cysts, fibroids)
- Breast lumps and masses
- Vascular problems (carotid arteries, blood clots)
- Heart conditions (echocardiogram)
- Musculoskeletal injuries
How to Prepare for Your Ultrasound
- 1Abdominal ultrasound: Fast for 8–12 hours before (water is OK)
- 2Pelvic ultrasound: Drink 32 oz of water 1 hour before and do NOT empty your bladder
- 3Thyroid/breast/MSK: No special preparation needed
- 4Vascular: No special preparation needed
- 5Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- 6Arrive 15 minutes early with insurance card and referral
What to Expect During Your Ultrasound
Preparation
Depending on the type of ultrasound, you may change into a gown. The technologist will explain the procedure and answer your questions.
The Scan
Warm gel is applied to your skin, and the technologist glides a smooth transducer over the area. You may feel slight pressure but no pain. The technologist may ask you to hold your breath briefly or change positions.
Real-Time Imaging
You may see the images on screen during the exam. For pregnancy ultrasounds, you'll see your baby! The exam typically takes 20–45 minutes.
After Your Scan
The gel is wiped off and you can resume all normal activities immediately. Results are sent to your doctor within 48 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Ultrasound has been used safely in pregnancy for decades. It uses no radiation — only sound waves. It's the standard method for monitoring fetal development throughout pregnancy.
A full bladder pushes the intestines out of the way and acts as a "window" for the sound waves, giving us much clearer images of the uterus and ovaries.
No. Ultrasound is painless. You'll feel the smooth transducer gliding over your skin with warm gel. Some slight pressure may be applied, but it shouldn't be uncomfortable.
Ultrasound uses sound waves (no radiation) and excels at soft tissue, blood flow, and pregnancy imaging. CT uses X-rays and is better for bone, lung, and complex body scans. Your doctor will order the right test for your situation.
Most ultrasound exams take 20–45 minutes depending on the area being studied. Some complex vascular or abdominal studies may take up to an hour. We'll give you a time estimate when you schedule.
Yes, a physician's order is typically required. Your doctor will specify the type of ultrasound needed. Call us at (727) 398-5999 and we'll help coordinate scheduling.
Results are interpreted by our board-certified radiologist and sent to your referring physician within 48 hours. Stat reads are available for urgent cases.
Most insurance plans cover medically necessary ultrasound exams with a physician's order. We verify your benefits before your appointment. Affordable self-pay pricing is also available — call (727) 398-5999 for details.
Ready to Schedule Your Ultrasound?
Call us or book online. We'll get you scheduled quickly.