How to Prepare for Your Ultrasound or X-Ray

Turning up unprepared is the most common reason a scan needs to be rescheduled. Here's what to do beforehand, by test type.

Reviewed by Dr. Saleem Mansha, PMDC-verified Consultant Radiologist · Updated 5 Sep 2026

Pregnancy & pelvic ultrasound

Early pregnancy scans often need a full bladder — drink water and avoid the toilet for about an hour beforehand.
Anomaly scans (18–22 weeks) and later pregnancy scans usually don't require a full bladder.
Wear loose, two-piece clothing so your abdomen is easy to access.

Abdominal ultrasound (liver, kidney, gallbladder)

Usually requires 6–8 hours of fasting so gas and food don't obscure the image — check with our staff for your specific study.
Continue any regular medication unless your doctor says otherwise.

Digital X-Ray

No fasting needed.
Remove metal jewellery, zips or buttons near the area being imaged.
Tell the technician if you're pregnant or think you might be, before the X-Ray is taken.

What to bring, every time

Your doctor's referral or prescription, if any.
Any previous scan reports or images for comparison.
A valid ID.

Not sure what your specific test needs? Call or WhatsApp us at 0337-7122366 before your visit to Okara or Renala Khurd — we're happy to confirm.

Frequently Asked Questions

For early pregnancy scans, a full bladder often helps get a clearer view and is usually recommended — drink water and avoid urinating for about an hour beforehand. For later pregnancy and most anomaly scans, a full bladder generally isn't required. Confirm with our staff when you book.

Usually yes — abdominal ultrasound (liver, kidney, gallbladder) typically requires 6–8 hours of fasting so gas and food don't obscure the image. Confirm the exact requirement for your specific study with our staff when you book.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zips, buttons or jewellery near the area being imaged, since metal can interfere with the image. You may be asked to change into a gown for certain views.