Having an abdominal ultrasound during your period

Keep the appointment unless the imaging centre has given different instructions or you feel too unwell to attend. Tell the sonographer that you are menstruating if the examination includes the pelvis or your symptoms relate to bleeding.

A standard abdominal scan examines organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys through the skin. Menstrual flow does not obscure these organs. Normal cycle-related changes may be visible if the uterus and ovaries are also examined, and the reporter considers the cycle timing when interpreting them.

An external pelvic scan may require a comfortably full bladder. If an internal pelvic ultrasound is offered, it can often still be performed during bleeding, but you can discuss comfort, consent, alternatives, and whether postponing would alter the clinical value.

Follow the instructions on your booking because preparation depends on the organs being examined. You may be asked not to eat beforehand for an upper abdominal scan or to drink water and avoid emptying your bladder for pelvic views.

Wear clothing that allows easy access to the abdomen and bring a menstrual product you find comfortable. Before the scan begins, mention heavy bleeding, possible pregnancy, severe tenderness, recent procedures, or difficulty maintaining a full bladder so the team can adapt the examination.

Seek urgent care rather than waiting for a routine scan if bleeding is accompanied by fainting, severe weakness, sudden or intense abdominal or pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, breathing difficulty, or a possible pregnancy. Fever with worsening pelvic pain or foul-smelling discharge also needs prompt assessment.

Confirm whether the booking is for the upper abdomen, pelvis, or both; whether fasting or a full bladder is required; and whether cycle timing matters for the clinical question. If an internal examination is being considered, ask what it may add and what non-internal options are available.