Ultrasound is one of the gentlest investigations in pediatrics: it uses no ionising radiation, is painless and is suitable even for newborns. The only thing that differs from one scan to another is the preparation — it depends on what exactly the doctor is looking at.
Why ultrasound is prescribed even for newborns
Unlike X-ray, ultrasound works on sound waves and uses no ionising radiation. The probe only touches the skin through a layer of gel — nothing enters the body, so the scan is non-invasive and painless. That is why ultrasound suits babies from the very first days of life, and why a doctor can prescribe it again when needed to track changes over time.
Which ultrasounds children have
Children most often have an abdominal ultrasound, echocardiography (heart ultrasound), thyroid ultrasound and joint ultrasound — these are the studies available at our clinic. The specific scan is prescribed by the doctor based on the examination.
Preparation depends on the type of scan
- abdominal ultrasound: the doctor may recommend a light diet for a few days beforehand and coming without having eaten before the scan — the rules depend on age and are gentler for infants;
- echocardiography (heart ultrasound): no special preparation is usually needed — what matters is that the child is calm, so active games are best saved for after the scan;
- thyroid and joint ultrasound: these generally require no special preparation; you can feed a baby beforehand so that they stay settled.
When you book, you will be told in detail how to prepare for your specific scan — the most reliable way to avoid arriving unprepared.
What to bring
- the referral and the results of any previous ultrasounds — the doctor will compare them to see the trend;
- a changing mat or sheet for the examination couch;
- for a baby — a dummy or a bottle;
- for an older child — a toy that will help them lie still.
How the scan goes
Your child lies on the couch while you stay beside them. The doctor applies gel to the skin and moves the probe over it — this is painless, though the gel can feel cool. A scan usually takes about 15–20 minutes. If your child is fidgety, hold their hand or distract them with conversation: a calm posture helps the doctor get good-quality images.
Helping your child lie still
- feed a baby before the scan if the type of ultrasound does not call for a gap in feeding — a full baby often falls asleep right on the couch;
- play “lie very still” at home with a favourite toy — your child will get used to the format;
- for a pre-schooler, bring a tablet with a cartoon or play a familiar song;
- hold your child's hand and talk to them — a familiar voice soothes better than any coaxing.
After the scan
Following the scan, the doctor writes up a report — confirm when booking exactly how and when you will receive it. The report is interpreted, and the next steps decided, by the doctor who prescribed the ultrasound: they assess it in the context of the examination and your concerns. For the follow-up visit, bring both this and any previous reports — that way the doctor can see the picture over time.