FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS IT SAFE?
Yes! Ultrasound uses no ionizing radiation (X-rays), and as such there have been no known harmful effects to humans (including unborn babies) when used in the hands of suitably qualified operators.
DOES IT HURT?
Ultrasound is usually painless. However, if we are scanning an area that is injured, or that you know to be tender, you may find it uncomfortable for the short time that the sonographer needs to view this area to make an accurate diagnosis.
DO I NEED A REFERRAL FOR A SCAN?
Absolutely. For medico-legal reasons a referral is necessary for you to have ANY kind of scan with us. It is also important that your bring your referral with you to your appointment with us.
DO I NEED TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?
Yes, in all instances, it is necessary to book an appointment with us before you plan on having your scan. We advise that you do this as soon are you are referred for a scan by your health provider, as our booking schedule can fill very quickly.
HOW MUCH WILL MY SCAN COST?
Please refer to our price list. Click here for more information
CAN I BRING FRIENDS/FAMILY TO MY SCAN?
A maximum of TWO adult support people are welcome to accompany you into any scan. NO children (under 12 years old) or babies are able to attend any scans. This policy is subject to change at any time with the differing Covid-19 case numbers.
CAN I TAKE PICTURES/VIDEO DURING MY SCAN?
Sorry, but for medico-legal reasons, EchoNorth does not allow photography or filming during any ultrasound examination. All cell phones must be switched off prior to entering the scan room.
CAN I GET A COPY OF THE IMAGES FROM MY SCAN?
Yes. If the images are needed for a medical reason (eg. to give to another medical specialist) we can provide your specialist with the images.
From 12 weeks onward, as part of your maternity, a secure link can be sent to your smartphone for you to access your images. These images can then be downloaded, printed or emailed at your convenience.
You will also be given a black and white thermal image to take away with you at each maternity scan.
WHAT PREPARATION DO I NEED TO DO FOR MY SCAN?
When you make your appointment with us, one of our staff will advise you of any preparation necessary for your scan. It is important that this is followed so that the scan can proceed at your booked time.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE SCAN?
You will be welcomed into the examination room, which has a warm, relaxed atmosphere. You will be asked to lie on a comfortable examination couch. The sonographer will apply warm gel to the skin and press the transducer firmly against the skin, moving it until the desired images are captured. You should not experience any significant discomfort during the procedure. You may be asked to change position or take deep breaths to enable the sonographer to see some areas better.
WILL THERE BE AN INTERNAL PART TO MY SCAN?
Internal scans are only performed with your consent.
They are performed routinely for all pelvic ultrasound examinations as they are considered the gold standard for achieving the best views of the uterus and ovaries and are essential for the assessment of certain conditions such as endometriosis or post menopausal bleeding.
Internal scans are often performed in early pregnancy to enable the pregnancy to be seen more clearly but may also be performed in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters when required. Your sonographer will always explain to you why the internal scan is needed and it is always your choice to decline.
HOW LONG WILL MY SCAN TAKE?
This varies depending on what type of scan you are having, but they usually take between 20-40 mins. Our staff will give you a more accurate time when you make your appointment.
WHAT HAPPENS TO MY SCAN RESULTS?
Following your scan, the sonographer prepares a report of her findings, and this is then checked and signed off by one of our radiologists. The person who referred you for your scan (your Midwife, Doctor, Physiotherapist or Specialist) will get a copy of this report the following day.
If your referrer requires a report more urgently, please let your sonographer know.
If you would like your report sent to another medical professional, please let one of the receptionist’s know.
Due to medico-legal reasons we are unable to send copies of reports to patients, your referrer is more than welcome to give you a copy once they have discussed the ultrasound findings with you.
DO YOU OFFER 3D/4D SCANS?
Unfortunately we do not offer 3D/4D any more. These may be available at other radiology clinics. Please ask your midwife for more information.
DO YOU OFFER PRIVATE GENDER SCANS?
EchoNorth do NOT offer private gender scans. Scans will only be performed for clinical reasons with a valid referral form from a New Zealand registered Doctor or Midwife.