Ultrasound Scan
Uses, Types, Procedure & Benefits
Have you ever wondered how doctors can see inside your body without making a single cut? One of the most common, safest, and most magical ways they do this is with an Ultrasound. Whether you’re an expecting parent excited to see your baby for the first time or a patient needing a check-up for your internal organs, understanding this simple test can make the experience much easier.
This guide is designed to explain everything about the Ultrasound test in simple, easy-to-understand English. We will cover what it is, why it’s done, how to prepare, and what to expect, so you feel confident and informed.
Summary
Ultrasound is a painless and safe way to look inside the body using sound waves. It’s widely used in medicine to detect, monitor, and guide treatments — all without surgery.
- What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that bounce off body tissues to create live images. It’s commonly used to check organs, blood flow, and even a baby during pregnancy.
- Why is it Safe and Preferred?
Ultrasound doesn’t use radiation, making it safer than X-rays or CT scans. It’s non-invasive, cost-effective, and quick — suitable for all age groups including children and pregnant women.
- Uses in Everyday Healthcare
Doctors use Ultrasound to examine the liver, kidneys, heart, and more. It also helps guide needle procedures like biopsies or injections, reducing risk and improving accuracy.
What Is an Ultrasound Test?
An Ultrasound is a medical test that helps doctors see inside your body. It is also known as sonography. It is a very safe and painless procedure used for looking at organs, tissues, and a developing baby in the mother’s womb.
- History
The medical use of ultrasound began in the mid-20th century, inspired by sonar technology developed during World War II. In the 1950s, the first medical ultrasounds were used to visualize fetal development and detect internal abnormalities. Since then, advances in computer technology and imaging resolution have made ultrasound one of the most essential diagnostic tools in modern medicine — offering quick, clear, and reliable results.
- Definition and purpose of ultrasound
The basic ultrasound definition is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create live images or pictures of the inside of your body. Its main purpose is to help doctors diagnose and monitor various medical conditions. From checking the health of a baby during pregnancy to finding the cause of stomach pain, this test is a powerful tool for doctors.
- How sound waves create internal images
The process is quite clever and works like the sonar that bats or ships use. A small, hand-held device called an ultrasound transducer is placed on your skin. This device sends out high-frequency sound waves that you cannot hear. These waves travel into your body and hit organs and tissues. When they hit something, they bounce back, creating echoes. The ultrasound machine detects these echoes and uses a computer to turn them into a live picture on a screen.
- Key differences between ultrasound and X-ray
Many people get confused between an Ultrasound and an X-ray. While both help doctors see inside the body, they are very different. The biggest difference is that an Ultrasound uses sound waves, which are completely safe. X-rays, on the other hand, use a small amount of radiation. This is why an Ultrasound is the preferred method for checking on a baby during pregnancy. It is also better for looking at soft tissues like the liver, kidneys, and heart, while X-rays are excellent for looking at bones.
- Here is a simple table to show the key differences:
- Swipe right to view the full table
| Feature | Ultrasound | X-ray | MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology Used | High-frequency sound waves | Ionizing radiation | Magnetic fields and radio waves |
| Best For | Soft tissues, organs, blood flow, pregnancy | Bones, teeth, chest (lungs) | Detailed images of soft tissues, brain, joints |
| Safety | Very safe, no radiation | Uses a small amount of radiation | Safe, no radiation, but not for people with certain metal implants |
| Procedure | A gel is applied, and a probe is moved over the skin | You stand or lie still for a quick image capture | You lie inside a large, tube-like machine for a longer period |
Common Types of Ultrasound Scans
There are many different ultrasound types, each designed to look at a specific part of the body. Your doctor will choose the right type based on your symptoms and what they need to investigate. This ensures they get the clearest pictures of the area of concern.
This scan is used to look at the organs in your belly, such as the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. An ultrasound for liver problems or an ultrasound of kidney to check for issues is a very common procedure. It can help find the cause of stomach pain or check for stones.
An ultrasound of pelvis examines the organs in the lower part of your belly, between the hips. For women, this includes the uterus, ovaries, and bladder. An ultrasound of uterus is common for gynaecological issues. For men, it looks at the bladder and prostate gland.
This is perhaps the most well-known type. It’s used to monitor the health and development of a baby in the mother’s womb. From the very early ultrasound 6 week pregnancy scan to later growth checks, it provides vital information for both the mother and the doctor.
A Doppler Ultrasound is a special technique that measures the flow of blood through your blood vessels. It can help doctors see if blood is flowing properly through your arteries and veins in your arms, legs, or neck. It is crucial for detecting blockages or clots.
- Transvaginal and transrectal ultrasound
Sometimes, to get a clearer picture of the pelvic organs, the probe needs to be closer. For a transvaginal ultrasound, a small, thin probe is placed inside the vagina to get a better view of the uterus and ovaries. Similarly, a transrectal ultrasound involves placing a probe in the rectum to examine the prostate gland.
This type of scan is used to look at muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. It’s very useful for diagnosing sprains, tears, and other injuries related to sports or accidents. Doctors may also recommend ultrasound therapy for some of these conditions, which uses sound waves to promote healing.
Why Is an Ultrasound Done?
Doctors recommend an ultrasound test for many reasons. It is a versatile tool that gives them a real-time view of what is happening inside the body without any invasive surgery.
- To monitor pregnancy
The most common reason is to check on a developing baby. An ultrasound in pregnancy is used to confirm the pregnancy, check the baby’s heartbeat, see its growth, and ensure everything is developing normally. It’s a wonderful way for parents to see their baby for the first time.
- To detect internal organ problems
If you have symptoms like pain, swelling, or abnormal blood test results, a doctor may order a scan to investigate. For example, an ultrasound upper abdomen can help diagnose gallbladder stones or liver issues. An ultrasound for kidney stones can quickly identify the size and location of stones causing pain. Similarly, a scan can check for issues in the heart, thyroid gland, and other organs.
- To guide biopsy and needle procedures
An Ultrasound is like a guide for doctors. When they need to take a small tissue sample (a biopsy) from an organ like the liver or a lump, they use the live Ultrasound image to guide the needle to the exact spot. This makes the procedure more accurate and safer.
- To evaluate symptoms like pain or swelling
If you have unexplained pain in your stomach, a scan like an ultrasound abdomen and pelvis can help find the cause. If you have swelling in your leg, a Doppler scan can check for blood clots. It is a primary diagnostic tool for a wide range of symptoms, helping doctors make a quick and accurate diagnosis.
Ultrasound in Pregnancy: What You Should Know
For expecting parents, pregnancy scans are milestones. These scans provide reassurance and critical information about the baby’s health. The journey often begins with an early Ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy.
- Early pregnancy ultrasound
The first scan is usually done early on. An ultrasound 7 week or ultrasound 8 weeks scan is done to confirm the pregnancy, check if it’s in the uterus, detect the baby’s heartbeat, and estimate the due date. This early look is a very emotional and important moment for parents.
- Anomaly scan (level 2 scan)
This detailed Ultrasound is usually done between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. It’s also called the TIFFA (Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies) scan. The sonographer carefully checks the baby’s body from head to toe, including the brain, heart, spine, and other organs, to make sure they are developing correctly. They might also check the placenta’s position, for example, in cases of a suspected ultrasound low lying placenta.
- Growth scan and fetal well-being
In the third trimester (the last three months of pregnancy), a growth scan may be done. This Ultrasound checks the baby’s growth, the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby, and the blood flow from the placenta to the baby. It helps ensure the baby is healthy and growing well as the delivery date approaches. A more advanced ultrasound 3d scan might be offered, which provides a clearer, more lifelike image of the baby.
- Gender determination laws in India
In India, it is illegal to determine or disclose the sex of the fetus. The Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act strictly prohibits any form of ultrasound gender reveal. This law was made to prevent female foeticide. So, when you go for a scan, do not ask the doctor or technician about the baby’s gender, as they are legally not allowed to tell you.
- Here is a quick overview of the key pregnancy scans:
- Swipe right to view the full table
| Scan Name (Trimester) | When It's Done | Main Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Viability Scan (First) | 6–9 weeks | To confirm pregnancy, check heartbeat, and determine the due date. |
| Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan (First) | 11–14 weeks | To screen for chromosomal abnormalities like Down's syndrome. |
| Anomaly Scan / Level II (Second) | 18–20 weeks | A detailed check of the baby's anatomy, organs, and overall development. |
| Growth Scan (Third) | 28–36 weeks | To monitor the baby's growth, check fluid levels, and assess the placenta's health. |
Role of Ultrasound in Cancer Detection
While an Ultrasound alone cannot diagnose cancer, it plays a very important role in its detection, diagnosis, and management. It is often the first imaging test done if a doctor suspects a lump or abnormality.
- Ultrasound-guided biopsy and interventions
If a scan reveals a suspicious lump or mass, a doctor will likely need a tissue sample (biopsy) to check for cancer cells. Using Ultrasound guidance, the doctor can see the lump in real-time on the screen and guide a thin needle precisely into it to collect a sample. This is much less invasive than surgery and is a standard procedure for lumps in the breast, thyroid, and liver. Another specialised procedure is ultrasound endoscopy, where a small probe on the end of an endoscope provides images from inside the body.
- Monitoring treatment response and recurrence
For patients undergoing cancer treatment, an Ultrasound can be used to monitor the tumor. Doctors can perform scans at regular intervals to see if the tumor is shrinking in response to chemotherapy or radiationtherapy. After treatment is complete, it is also used to check for any signs of the cancer returning (recurrence), allowing for early intervention if needed.
- Advantages of ultrasound in oncology
Ultrasound is important in cancer care because it is safe, uses no radiation, and can be repeated often. It provides real-time images that help doctors guide biopsies accurately. It also helps show whether a lump is solid or fluid and checks blood flow in a tumor. Ultrasound is widely available, portable, and more affordable than CT or MRI.
- limitations of ultrasound in oncology
Ultrasound has limitations because the image quality depends strongly on the skill of the person performing the scan. It cannot clearly show structures that contain bone or gas, so areas like the brain, lungs, or bowel are difficult to assess. It also provides less detailed information about deeper or more complex tumors compared to CT or MRI.
How to Prepare for an Ultrasound Test
Preparation for an ultrasound scan is usually very simple, but it depends on the type of scan you are having. Following the instructions carefully ensures that the person performing the scan gets the best possible images.
- Fasting or full bladder – when and why
⦿ Fasting: For an abdominal scan (like one for the liver or gallbladder), you may be asked not to eat or drink for 6 to 8 hours before the test. This is because food and gas in your stomach and intestines can block the sound waves and make it hard to see the organs clearly.
⦿ Full Bladder: For a pelvic or early pregnancy scan, you will be asked to drink several glasses of water an hour before your appointment and not go to the toilet. A full bladder pushes the intestines out of the way, giving the sonographer a clear view of the uterus and ovaries.
- Clothing and comfort
Wear loose, comfortable clothing for your appointment. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown depending on the area being scanned. It’s best to leave jewellery at home. The main goal is to allow easy access to the part of your body that needs to be scanned.
- Informing your doctor about medications
Before your scan, you should tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. In most cases, you can continue taking your regular medication. However, it’s always best to check with your doctor for any specific instructions related to your scan.
- This table summarises common preparation needs:
- Swipe right to view the full table
| Type of Ultrasound Scan | Preparation Required | Why It's Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Abdominal (Liver, Gallbladder) | Fast for 6–8 hours. | To reduce gas and ensure a clear view of the abdominal organs. |
| Pelvic / Early Pregnancy | Drink 4–6 glasses of water 1 hour before and hold your urine. | A full bladder provides a "window" to see the uterus and ovaries clearly. |
| Kidney | You may be asked to have a full bladder. | A full bladder helps in visualizing the kidneys and bladder more effectively. |
| Musculoskeletal / Thyroid | No special preparation needed. | These areas are close to the skin and are not affected by food or a full bladder. |
What Happens During the Procedure?
Knowing what to expect can help you feel relaxed during your scan. The entire process is usually quick and painless.
- Step-by-step ultrasound process
⦿ Check-in: You will arrive at the clinic or hospital and register for your appointment.
⦿ Preparation: A nurse or ultrasound technician will take you to the scanning room. You may be asked to change into a gown.
⦿ Positioning: You will lie down on a comfortable examination table.
⦿ Gel Application: The technician will apply a special water-based ultrasound gel to your skin over the area to be examined. This gel helps the sound waves travel from the transducer into your body.
⦿ Scanning: The technician will press the transducer firmly against your skin and move it around to capture images from different angles. You will see the black-and-white images on a computer screen.
⦿ Completion: Once enough images are captured, the technician will wipe off the gel, and you can get dressed.
- Duration and what you’ll feel
Most scans take between 15 to 30 minutes. You won’t feel the sound waves at all. The only thing you might feel is a cool sensation from the gel and light pressure from the transducer as it is moved over your skin. If you are having a scan because of a painful area, you might feel slight discomfort when the transducer passes over it.
- Safety and aftercare
The ultrasound test is extremely safe. There is no radiation involved, and there are no known harmful side effects. After the scan, you can immediately go back to your normal activities, including eating and drinking. There is no special aftercare required. If you are interested in this field, you might consider an ultrasound course or a full ultrasound technician course to become a professional.
Ultrasound Test Results Explained
After your scan is complete, the images are reviewed by a radiologist, who is a doctor specially trained to interpret them.
- Normal vs abnormal findings
The radiologist will look at the images to check the size, shape, and texture of your organs and tissues.
⦿ Normal: This means that the organs look healthy and there are no signs of any problems.
⦿ Abnormal: This could mean many things, such as a cyst, a stone, inflammation, or a mass. The report might also show technical issues called ultrasound artifacts, which are not a medical problem but just distortions in the image.
⦿ Normal: This means that the organs look healthy and there are no signs of any problems.
⦿ Abnormal: This could mean many things, such as a cyst, a stone, inflammation, or a mass. The report might also show technical issues called ultrasound artifacts, which are not a medical problem but just distortions in the image.
- When further tests may be needed
Sometimes, an Ultrasound finding is not clear, or it points to a problem that needs more investigation. In such cases, your doctor may recommend other tests, like a CT scan, an MRI, or a biopsy, to get a more detailed picture and make a definite diagnosis.
- Interpreting reports with your doctor
You will receive a report with the radiologist’s findings. This report will be full of medical terms. It is very important that you do not try to interpret it on your own. Your doctor will explain the results to you in simple terms, tell you what they mean for your health, and discuss the next steps.
Is Ultrasound Safe for Everyone?
Yes, an Ultrasound is considered one of the safest medical imaging procedures available today.
- No radiation – major safety benefit
The biggest safety benefit is that it does not use any ionizing radiation, unlike X-rays and CT scans. This means you can have the scan multiple times without any risk of radiation exposure. The ultrasound waves frequency is much higher than what humans can hear, but it is non-ionizing and does not damage cells. The specific ultrasound frequency used depends on the depth and type of tissue being examined.
- Safety during pregnancy
Because it is radiation-free, it is the ideal method for monitoring a developing baby. Decades of use have shown that it is safe for both the mother and the fetus. It is a standard part of prenatal care worldwide. There are other applications too, like ultrasound use in physiotherapy, which also uses safe sound waves to treat injuries.
- Myths about ultrasound side effects
There are many myths about this test, but there are no proven side effects from a standard diagnostic Ultrasound. It does not cause pain, cancer, or any harm to the body. It is a trusted, safe, and reliable medical tool.
Cost of Ultrasound in India
The cost of a scan can vary quite a bit. It’s a good idea to know the factors that influence the price.
- Price range by city and type
The ultrasound test price depends on the city you are in (metro cities are usually more expensive) and the type of scan. A simple scan of the ultrasound lower abdomen might cost less than a more complex Doppler study or a detailed anomaly scan during pregnancy. Prices can range from ₹500 to ₹5000 or more.
- Ultrasound in government vs private labs
Generally, government hospitals offer scans at a much lower, subsidized cost or even for free. Private diagnostic labs and hospitals will charge more, but they might offer quicker appointments and more comfortable facilities.
- Insurance coverage and packages
If the scan is prescribed by a doctor for a diagnostic reason, it is usually covered by health insurance policies. It’s always best to check with your insurance provider beforehand. Many hospitals also offer maternity packages that include the cost of all required pregnancy scans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by
Dr. Harsh Shah
MS, MCh (G I cancer Surgeon)
Dr. Harsh Shah is a renowned GI and HPB Robotic Cancer Surgeon in Ahmedabad.
Reviewed by
Dr. Swati Shah
MS, DrNB (Surgical Oncology)
Dr. Swati Shah is a Robotic Uro and Gynecological Cancer Surgeon in Ahmedabad.