Ultrasound Scan: The Complete Guide (Updated 2025)

Intro

Ultrasound scans are among the most widely used diagnostic tests in the UK. They use high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of organs, tissues, and blood flow without radiation.

Ultrasound is best known for pregnancy scans, but it also plays a crucial role in diagnosing conditions affecting the abdomen, pelvis, heart, and blood vessels.

Demand is high: in November 2024, the NHS performed over 900,000 ultrasound scans, making it the most common imaging test. Yet waiting times remain a challenge — as of January 2025, 12% of patients waited more than six weeks for an ultrasound, compared with under 2% before the pandemic.

This guide covers what an ultrasound scan is, what it can detect, NHS versus private access, and how to book one quickly with GetScanned.

What is an ultrasound scan?

An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves emitted from a handheld probe. These waves bounce off internal structures, and a computer converts them into moving images displayed on a monitor.

There are three main types of ultrasound:

1. External ultrasound: The Probe is moved over the skin (most common).
2. Internal ultrasound: Probe is inserted into the vagina (transvaginal) or rectum (transrectal) for clearer views.
3. Endoscopic ultrasound: A flexible tube with a probe is inserted into the body, usually via the throat, to assess digestive organs.

Unlike a CT scan, an ultrasound does not use radiation, making it safe for children and pregnant.

What does it show?

Ultrasound is versatile and used across many areas of medicine.

By body system, an ultrasound can show:

• Pregnancy and gynaecology:
  
  • Monitoring foetal growth and development
  • Detecting multiple pregnancies
  • Checking placenta position
  • Diagnosing uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts
• Abdomen:
  
  • Liver disease
  • Gallstones
  • Kidney stones
  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Cardiovascular (echocardiography and Doppler):
  
  • Heart valve disease
  • Heart-pumping function
  • Blood clots in veins (DVT)
  • Blocked arteries
• Musculoskeletal:
  
  • Muscle tears
  • Joint inflammation
  • Tendon injuries (e.g. rotator cuff, Achilles tendon)
• Other uses:
  
  • Thyroid nodules
  • Breast lumps
  • Testicular abnormalities

Who might need one?

Ultrasound scans may be recommended if you:

• Are pregnant (routine NHS scans at 12 and 20 weeks).
• Have abdominal pain, swelling, or suspected gallstones.
• Have vascular symptoms like leg swelling (rule out DVT).
• Have heart problems requiring echocardiography.
• Have lumps or suspected tumours needing further assessment.
• Are you an athlete with a suspected tendon or muscle injury?

With GetScanned, you can also self-refer for private ultrasound scans, making it easier to access tests not always available on the NHS without long waits.

How does the scan work?

Step-by-step patient journey:

1. Booking: Choose ultrasound as your scan type - pick a location and date online. Complete a few health-related questions.
2. Medical referral: Connect with one of our GPs who will discuss your medical history and generate a referral for your scan.
3. Preparation: You may be asked to drink water beforehand to fill your bladder (for pelvic scans).
4. Scanning: The sonographer moves the probe across the area. Real-time images appear on the screen. Most scans take 15–30 minutes.
5. Completion: Most scans take 15–30 minutes.
6. Aftercare: You can leave and resume normal activities immediately

Preparation & Safety

Preparation depends on the type of ultrasound:

• Abdominal: Fast for 4–6 hours beforehand to reduce gas interference.
• Pelvic: Drink water to fill your bladder.
• Cardiac or vascular: Usually, no preparation needed.

Safety considerations:

• Ultrasound is safe for almost everyone, including pregnant women and children.
• There are no known long-term risks from ultrasound exposure.
• Internal or endoscopic ultrasound may cause temporary discomfort.

Results & Next Steps

• Results are interpreted by a radiologist or specialist sonographer.
• Reports are typically available within a few working days.
• If abnormalities are found, follow-up scans or referrals may be advised.

NHS Wait Times vs Private Options

Ultrasound demand far exceeds capacity in many NHS hospitals:

• January 2025: Around 12% of patients waited more than six weeks for an ultrasound.
• Median waits are 2–4 weeks, but some areas report delays of 6–12 weeks.

Ultrasound is the single most common NHS diagnostic scan, contributing to bottlenecks.

Also, check out our article on why to choose a private ultrasound scan over the NHS?

Private ultrasound with GetScanned:

• Book online without GP referral.
• Access nationwide, CQC-registered clinics.
• Appointments are often available within a week.
• Results are usually available within a few working days.

Cost & Booking with GetScanned

• Prices from £145, depending on type and location.
• Self-referral available.
• Secure online booking and nationwide access.

Book your ultrasound with GetScanned

Comparison Table: Ultrasound vs CT vs MRI

Checklist: What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing
• Full bladder (if asked for pelvic scan)
• Photo ID (in case required by the scan centre)
• List of current medications