Bladder Ultrasound
A bladder scan examines the bladder and can measure how much urine remains after you empty it.
What the exam evaluates
- How completely the bladder empties
- The bladder wall and its contents
- Stones or other findings
Common reasons for this exam
- Difficulty emptying the bladder or a feeling of incomplete emptying.
- Measurement of urine remaining after urination (post-void residual).
- Follow-up of a bladder finding when a clinician recommends imaging.
Approximate duration
Most exams take about 20 to 30 minutes once approved. You can typically return to normal activities immediately afterward.
What to expect
The sonographer applies gel and moves a handheld probe over your skin. You may be asked to change position or briefly hold your breath. Pressure over a tender area can be uncomfortable; tell the sonographer so they can adjust. Ultrasound uses sound waves, with no ionizing radiation. You can usually resume normal activities afterward. You may be scanned with a full bladder, asked to urinate, and scanned again.
How to prepare
Follow your appointment instructions
- This exam must be scheduled at least three days in advance so the appropriate sonographer can be available.
- You may need a comfortably full bladder. Follow the appointment instructions for how much to drink and when; do not force fluids if you have a fluid restriction.
- Tell the team if you cannot comfortably hold urine. They can advise you before starting.
- Wear clothing that gives easy access to the area being scanned. Bring earlier imaging reports and your order, if available.
- Continue prescribed medicines unless your clinician gives different instructions. Tell the team about pain, limited mobility, or positioning needs.
Understanding your results
- A scan alone cannot diagnose a urinary infection or exclude all causes of blood in the urine.
- Further urine testing, urology review, or cystoscopy may be needed.
What happens next?
A radiologist interprets the images. Review the report and any recommended next steps with your clinician. The sonographer may not be able to give a diagnosis during the appointment. Persistent symptoms still need follow-up even when the scan is normal.
When to seek care sooner
Inability to pass urine with significant lower abdominal pain needs prompt medical assessment.
Sources & further reading
This patient summary draws on published clinical literature and professional guidance. Patient resources are identified separately below. Preparation also depends on your specific order and the collecting laboratory or imaging team.
- Ultrasound examination of the kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder
Journal of Ultrasonography, 2013
Content updated October 11, 2026. General education; individual advice comes from your care team.
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A note on what we are. Palmetto Preventive provides non-emergency outpatient diagnostic imaging and laboratory services. We are not an emergency department, urgent care center, hospital, or a substitute for emergency evaluation, and we are not a longitudinal primary-care practice. If you are experiencing severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical care or call 911.
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