Why Do I Have To Drink Water For My Sonogram?
Your pregnancy is confirmed and you’ve just scheduled your first sonogram appointment. Our medical staff will walk you through the process and provide a series of instructions to prepare for the appointment, which includes drinking water.
Typically, up to the 12th week of your pregnancy, a full bladder will help the sonographer obtain better images. A full bladder will move the bowel out of the way and push the uterus back to better visualize the uterus, cervix, ovaries, the baby, and placental location. Ensuring that your bladder is full will help get the best images which will be used to rule out possible complications. Additionally, when we can see the baby clearly, we can easily determine how far along you are and hear the baby’s heartbeat.
To fill your bladder you will need to first empty your bladder 1 hour prior to your appointment, and then drink 24 – 32 ounces of water. Water is preferable because caffeine can cause your bladder to contract making you feel the need to go to the restroom before your bladder is full. You should not be so full that it is painful. If it does become painful empty just enough to relieve the pain. Then do not empty your bladder completely until after your sonogram.
Please contact us at the Prestonwood Pregnancy Center today to book your no-cost sonogram. We can then discuss your options with you in a safe and nonjudgmental environment.
