How to Prepare for an Abdominal Ultrasound?

Abdominal Ultrasound Gdańsk – How to Prepare for the Exam?

Abdominal ultrasound is one of the most commonly performed diagnostic tests. It allows the evaluation of key internal organs – such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, and urinary bladder. The test is completely painless, non-invasive, and quick, making it an essential tool in diagnosing digestive and urinary system conditions.

At Mediss Medical Clinic in Gdańsk, we perform private abdominal ultrasound appointments – with no queues and in a comfortable setting. However, proper patient preparation is crucial to obtain a precise and reliable image.

Why is preparation for abdominal ultrasound so important?

Although abdominal ultrasound is a simple procedure that doesn’t require hospitalization, its accuracy largely depends on how well you prepare. Failing to follow the recommendations may lead to difficulties in evaluating certain structures, reduced image quality, and the need to repeat the test.

How to prepare for an abdominal ultrasound? Step by step

1. Do not eat for 6–8 hours before the test

Avoid eating for about 6–8 hours before the scheduled appointment. Undigested food or intestinal gas can make it difficult to evaluate the abdominal organs.
You can drink small amounts of water, but avoid doing so right before the test.

2. Avoid gas-producing foods

On the day before your ultrasound, avoid foods that increase intestinal gas:

• beans, cabbage, peas, onions

• milk and dairy products

• fresh bread

• carbonated drinks

This helps reduce gas in the intestines and improves ultrasound image quality.

3. Take anti-gas medication if needed

If you’re prone to bloating, consult your doctor – they may recommend a preparation containing simethicone or another anti-gas remedy. These are typically taken the night before and the morning of the exam.

4. Full or empty bladder? It depends on the test

In some cases (e.g. when evaluating the urinary bladder or pelvic organs), your bladder should be full. In that case, drink 0.5–1 liter of water about an hour before the test and do not urinate.
In other cases, your bladder should be empty – this information will be provided by your doctor or medical staff.

What does the abdominal ultrasound exam look like?

The exam typically takes 15–30 minutes. You will lie on an exam table, expose your abdomen, and the doctor will apply a special gel to the skin to help conduct the ultrasound waves. The probe is then moved across your abdomen.
You may be asked to hold your breath or change position to get a clearer view.

The exam is completely safe, non-invasive, and requires no recovery time – you can resume your normal activities immediately after the test.

What happens if you don’t prepare properly?

Improper preparation may result in:

• unclear images and diagnostic challenges

• the need to repeat the test

• delayed diagnosis

This leads to unnecessary stress and lost time – which is why following the guidelines is so important.

Abdominal Ultrasound Gdańsk – Private Exams at Mediss Medical Clinic

At Mediss Medical Clinic in Gdańsk, we perform abdominal ultrasounds using modern equipment, with full dedication and attention to your comfort. We offer short wait times, experienced specialists, and accurate diagnostics.

Take care of your health – schedule your ultrasound exam in Gdańsk today!

Mediss Medical Clinic – Gdańsk, ul. Szymanowskiego 2
888 300 301