Ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of organs, soft tissues, pregnancy, and blood flow.
Ultrasound is often requested for pain, swelling, a lump, pregnancy assessment, abnormal bleeding, urinary symptoms, or concerns about organs such as the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pelvis, or thyroid.
It helps when doctors need to look at soft tissues in real time, assess fluid, guide a needle, or check blood flow without using ionizing radiation.
It is commonly used for pelvic scans, abdominal pain, thyroid lumps, soft tissue swellings, and vascular studies.
Its findings may lead to reassurance, follow-up imaging, procedures, or specialist referral depending on what is seen.
This entry explains the procedure. Before you go, read the longer prep guide or find a centre that performs it.
