Whether it’s your first time or you’ve had scans before, preparing for an ultrasound can feel a little uncertain. The good news? There’s nothing to stress about. This article covers exactly what you need to know before your appointment, from what to eat, what to bring, and how to feel ready.

If you’ve been Googling something like “ultrasound near me”, chances are you’re preparing to book a scan. Knowing what to expect ahead of time can make your visit smoother and more comfortable.

Why Ultrasound Preparation Matters

Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive way for your doctor to get detailed images of the inside of your body. But for the clearest and most accurate results, how you prepare for your scan can make a big difference.

Some ultrasounds require a full bladder, while others may require fasting. If preparation isn’t followed correctly, it might impact the clarity of the images or even delay your appointment. Because there are different types of scans like pelvic, abdominal, musculoskeletal or vascular, your prep instructions will vary depending on what your doctor has referred you for.

Can You Eat Before an Ultrasound?

One of the most common questions we’re asked is: “Can I eat before an ultrasound?” The answer depends on the type of scan you’re having, and whether you have any medical conditions, such as severe diabetes, that may warrant changes to standard preparation.

• Abdominal Ultrasound: You’ll usually need to fast for at least six hours. This helps reduce gas in the stomach and bowel, which can interfere with image clarity.
• Pelvic and Urinary Tract (Bladder) Ultrasounds: You may be asked to drink water beforehand and avoid going to the toilet, as a full bladder helps improve the view of pelvic organs and the bladder.
• Vascular ultrasounds:
  • For scans of arteries and veins in the abdomen, (such as the aorta, renal arteries, or mesenteric arteries), fasting for six hours is usually required to reduce bowel gas.
  • If you’re booked for a leg artery ultrasound, fasting is also needed, as blood flow to the legs passes through abdominal vessels that need to be assessed.
  • Other vascular ultrasounds of veins and arteries typically do not require any special preparation.
• Other Scans (e.g. musculoskeletal, thyroid, breasts): These generally don’t require fasting or special prep.
• Urgent ultrasounds: where preparation is required, exceptions may be made for urgent clinical indications. Please call us directly to discuss.
  

If you’re still unsure, or still wondering ‘can I eat before an ultrasound’, or have a medical condition that might require changes to standard procedure, it’s best to confirm your instructions when booking in for your ultrasound. Many people search “can I eat before an ultrasound?” and as you can see, the answer really depends on the type of scan or personal conditions. That said, there’s always a simple way to find out – your referral form, clinic instructions, or a quick call to your provider will give you a clear answer on whether you can eat or not. You can also visit Healthdirect’s ultrasound scan guide for more details on what to expect and how to prepare.

Other Common Patient Questions

What should I wear to an ultrasound?

Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is ideal. You may be asked to remove jewellery or change into a gown for some scans.

How early should I arrive?

Arriving 10–15 minutes early gives you time to complete any paperwork and settle in before your appointment.

Do I need a referral?

Yes, a valid referral from your GP or specialist is needed for Medicare rebates and to ensure your scan is clinically appropriate. Podiatrist referrals for ankles, feet and lumps are also eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Is bulk billing available?

Yes, with Capri Ultrasound bulk billing is available for ultrasound services on the Gold Coast for all Medicare-eligible scans. Simply bring your referral and Medicare card on the day.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or found us by searching for an “ultrasounds near me” query, here’s what you can expect:

You’ll be welcomed by our friendly reception team, then taken through to a private room where the sonographer will explain the scan process. A small amount of gel will be applied to the area being examined, and a hand-held device (transducer) will be moved gently over the skin to capture images. Most scans take between 10 – 15 minutes.

Why Choose Capri Ultrasound?

At Capri Ultrasound, we’re committed to delivering high-quality diagnostic imaging with a focus on patient comfort and care. Our experienced team offers a range of ultrasound servicing options, including general, small parts, vascular, and musculoskeletal scans.

Our Gold Coast clinic in Isle of Capri is a convenient choice for anyone searching google for an ‘ultrasound near me’ query if you’re based in South East QLD. We accept all referrals, are one of the few clinics that offer bulk billing, and make the process as simple and stress-free as possible. View our full list of ultrasound services for more information.

Book Your Appointment

Ready to book your scan? You can make an appointment by calling us directly, booking online, or speaking with your GP for a referral. We accept referrals from any imaging provider so contact us today!

We’re proud to support the Gold Coast community with accessible, professional ultrasound care.