Expecting A Child? How To Prepare For Your Ultrasound
If you're scheduled for a prenatal ultrasound, you'll need to be prepared for the procedure. Abdominal ultrasounds are noninvasive procedures, which means you won't feel any pain, and no medical instruments will be inserted into your body. However, you do need to take some steps to prepare for your ultrasound, especially if you've never had one before. Here are some tips that will help you prepare for your prenatal ultrasound.
Start With an Empty Bladder
If you're scheduled for a prenatal ultrasound, your doctor has probably told you that you'll need a full bladder for the procedure. A full bladder ensures that the ultrasound technician can get a clear view of the placenta, and of the baby. However, you don't want to start adding fluids to an already-filled bladder. Instead, empty your bladder as much as possible prior to drinking the fluids required for your ultrasound.
Drink Fluids Prior to Ultrasound
If your doctor has ordered a prenatal ultrasound, your instructions will include how much water you should drink prior to the procedure. In most cases, you might be asked to drink anywhere from four to six glasses of water prior to your appointment. To ensure the best results, it's a good idea to follow those recommendations. If you don't drink enough water, the doctor might not be able to get a clear view of the baby. If you drink too much water, your bladder might be too full for accurate results.
Let The Doctor Know About Discomfort
If you're scheduled for a pelvic ultrasound for your pregnancy, you'll need to arrive at your appointment with a full bladder. In some cases, you might need to be seated in the waiting room for a few minutes before your appointment. If that happens, you'll want to talk to your doctor about any discomfort you might experience while you're waiting. A full bladder can be quite uncomfortable, especially when you're pregnant. If your full bladder causes severe discomfort, or you feel like you're going to lose control of your bladder, be sure to tell the office staff. You may be allowed to release a small amount of urine, which will relieve the pressure on your bladder.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Finally, if you're preparing for your pregnancy ultrasound, don't forget to wear comfortable clothing, especially loose-fitting pants. This is important even if you haven't started showing yet. The increased fluid in your bladder can make tight-fitting pants downright uncomfortable. Not only that, but loose-fitting pants will make it easier for you to expose your abdomen for the ultrasound.
For more information, contact a healthcare facility, such as Physiologix Health Services.
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