Is ultrasound safe?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, so there are no harmful effects. It has been used safely for decades in both pregnancy and medical care.

Can ultrasound replace a mammogram?
No. Mammograms remain the gold standard for breast cancer screening. Ultrasound is sometimes used as a follow-up or to look more closely at dense tissue, but it does not replace a mammogram.

Why does my bladder need to be full for some exams?
A full bladder helps push the bowel out of the way and creates a “window” for sound waves to travel through, allowing the sonographer to see your uterus, ovaries, and pelvic organs more clearly.

Why do I need to fast for certain ultrasounds?
Fasting reduces gas in the intestines, which can block clear views of your abdominal organs. This helps us get the most accurate results.

How do I prepare for my full bladder ultrasound?
For pelvic or early OB ultrasounds, you’ll be asked to arrive with a full bladder.

• Drink 32–40 oz of water and finish it one hour before your exam.

• Example: If your appointment is at 11:00 am, finish drinking water by 10:00 am.

• Once you start bladder prep, do not empty your bladder until after the exam.

A full bladder creates a better “window” for sound waves, helping us see your baby or pelvic organs more clearly.

Why is hydration so important for OB ultrasounds?
Hydration in the days before your scan helps improve image quality. Amniotic fluid is what allows us to see your baby clearly—the more fluid, the better the pictures. Staying well-hydrated for at least three days before your scan can make a big difference in your images.

A full bladder pushes the bowel out of the way and helps the sonographer see your uterus, ovaries, and pelvic organs more clearly.

Fasting reduces gas in the intestines, which can block clear views of your abdominal organs. It helps us get the most accurate results.

Can Doppler be used in early pregnancy?
We avoid Doppler in early pregnancy due to safety guidelines (ALARA). Instead, we use M-mode, a safe alternative, to measure the fetal heart rate until the pregnancy is further along.

Is there an extra fee for the radiologist?
No. Every diagnostic ultrasound is reviewed by a board-certified radiologist, and their interpretation is included in your booking price.

Do I need a doctor’s referral?

• Diagnostic ultrasounds: Yes, a referral from your healthcare provider is required.

• Elective keepsake ultrasounds (like 3D/4D): No referral is needed.

Who gives me the results?

• Diagnostic ultrasounds: Results are interpreted by a radiologist and sent to your provider, who will review them with you.

• Elective ultrasounds: Your sonographer will review the images with you during your visit.

Why should I choose a credentialed sonographer?
Credentialed sonographers are trained in ultrasound physics, safety, and anatomy, and are certified by the ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography). This ensures your exam is safe, accurate, and high-quality.

What payment methods do you accept?
We are a cash-pay practice. Accepted payments include debit/credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Klarna. Insurance is not accepted.

Can I walk in without an appointment?
We recommend booking in advance to ensure time is set aside for you. Walk-ins may be possible if we have an opening, but they are not guaranteed.

Can I bring guests?
Yes! You’re welcome to bring family or friends to share the experience. We simply ask that groups remain respectful of the space and staff.

Are the elective ultrasounds at Tampa Ultrasound Specialist medical exams?
No. Elective ultrasounds are keepsake bonding sessions. They do not replace medical ultrasounds or prenatal care from your provider.

What if my sonographer sees something unusual during an elective session?
While we are not your medical provider, sometimes a sonographer may notice something concerning. If that happens, we’ll ask for your doctor’s information so we can send them an “incidental findings” note. If anything looks urgent and your provider can’t be reached, we’ll let you know right away and recommend going to the ER.