- Why do I need to have a full bladder on pelvic ultrasound?
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Sound waves move more easily through liquids than through surrounding tissues and air. Consequently, a full bladder facilitates passage of sound waves through it, making the uterus and ovaries behind the bladder easier to see.
- Why can’t I eat or drink anything before my abdomen ultrasound exam?
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When you eat, drink, or even chew gum, you introduce air into stomach and bowel. Sound waves do not penetrate air, making it harder to see target organs.
- If there are ulcers in my stomach, can you see them?
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No, due to the gas (air) in the stomach and bowel, it’s hard to see these areas with ultrasound.
- Can ultrasound be harmful to my baby?
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To date, no proven ill effects have been reported or seen during regular ultrasound exams on pregnant women.