Abdominal Ultrasound: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Raghuveer Boddireddy, MD, Interventional Radiology. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Abdominal Ultrasound?
A radiologist, a doctor trained to read imaging tests, studies the pictures from an abdominal ultrasound. Your own doctor asks for the test and shares the results with you. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
An abdominal ultrasound is an imaging test. It makes pictures of organs and structures inside the body. The machine sends out sound waves that bounce off body structures. A computer uses the returning waves to make a picture. The test looks at organs in the belly, such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and kidneys. It can also show the aorta and other blood vessels in the belly.
A Doppler ultrasound may be part of the exam. Doppler is a special technique that shows blood flow through arteries and veins. Unlike x-rays, ultrasound does not use radiation.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Doctors may use this test to:
- Find the cause of belly pain
- Find the cause of kidney infections
- Diagnose or monitor tumors and cancers
- Learn why an organ in the belly is swollen
- Look for damage after an injury
- Look for stones in the gallbladder or kidney
- Look for the cause of abnormal blood tests, such as liver or kidney tests
- Look for the cause of a fever
The reason for the test depends on your symptoms.
How to prepare
How you prepare depends on the problem. You will likely be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before the exam. Follow your doctor's instructions about eating and drinking beforehand. Leave jewelry at home and wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may be asked to wear a gown.
What happens during it
You will lie down for the test. A clear, water-based gel is put on the skin over your belly. A handheld probe called a transducer is then moved over your belly. You may need to change position so the provider can look at different areas. You may also need to hold your breath for short periods. Most of the time, the test takes less than 30 minutes.
There is little discomfort. The gel may feel a little cold and wet. The sonographer, the person doing the scan, may press the probe against your belly.
Recovery
Most ultrasound scanning is noninvasive, which means it uses no needles or injections. A radiologist studies the images and sends a signed report to the doctor who asked for the exam. Your doctor then shares the results with you. In some cases, the radiologist may talk with you about the results after the exam. You may need a follow-up exam, and your doctor will explain why. Talk to your provider if you have any questions or concerns about the results.
Risks and side effects
There is no known risk from an abdominal ultrasound. Standard ultrasound used for diagnosis has no known harmful effects on humans. It may sometimes be uncomfortable for a short time, but it should not be painful.
The test has limits. Air or gas disrupts ultrasound waves, so ultrasound is not ideal for the air-filled bowel or organs hidden behind it. Pictures can also be harder to get in larger patients, because more tissue weakens the sound waves.
Who performs it
A sonographer may press the probe against your belly during the scan. A radiologist studies the images. The doctor who asked for the exam gets the report and shares the results with you.
Common questions
Does an abdominal ultrasound hurt?
No, it should not hurt. There is little discomfort. The gel may feel a little cold and wet, and the probe may press on your belly.
Do I need to fast before an abdominal ultrasound?
You will likely be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before the exam. How you prepare depends on the problem, so follow your doctor's instructions.
Does an abdominal ultrasound use radiation?
No, it does not use ionizing radiation. Ultrasound uses sound waves instead of x-rays.
How long does an abdominal ultrasound take?
Most of the time, the test takes less than 30 minutes.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. If your doctor asks for this test, they can share the results with you and explain why you may need a follow-up exam. A radiologist analyzes the images.
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Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
