Ultrasound uses reflected sound waves to obtain images of the unborn baby and pelvic organs. It is a very safe and painless.

Please bring your referral, Medicare and/or Pension Health Care Card and any previous imaging relating the the region being scanned.

Instructions on how to prepare for the test will be provided when you arrange the appointment. In general, for an ultrasound early in the pregnancy (1st and 2nd trimester), you will be asked to empty your bladder, drink and then hold 1-2 hours prior to the test. There may be no preparation for an ultrasound performed late in the pregnancy (3rd trimester).

You may be asked to put on a gown. Gel is applied to the skin to improve contact between the skin and transducer (a handheld plastic probe which sends and receives the reflected sound waves that forms the image).  The transducer is moved slowly over the abdomen to acquire images of the baby and pelvic organs in different planes. The images are displayed on a computer monitor for interpretation. Ultrasound is painless but discomfort from transducer pressure may be experienced if your bladder is full. 

You may be asked permission to perform an internal (transvaginal) examination if a more detailed examination of the cervix is required.  You will be asked to wear a gown after emptying your bladder and undressing from the waist down.  A sheet will cover your lower abdomen. A sterilised and covered transducer coated with gel is placed carefully into the vagina where it lies closer to the cervix. 

An ultrasound takes approx 15-60 minutes depending on the complexity.

There are no restrictions after having an ultrasound.

After your examination, you are welcome to request a copy of the most pertinent images from your study. A report will be given to you with the images, or sent directly back to your referring doctor by fax or email. PRP will store digital copies of all studies on our secure database for comparison with any future examinations.

Please bring any previous images with you for comparison.

It is important that you return to your doctor with your examination results. Whether they are normal or abnormal, your doctor needs to know promptly so that a management plan can be formulated.