Besides being the preferred image diagnostic test for pregnancy, an ultrasound test is also recommended to detect and identify a variety of medical conditions, such as:

1. Breast cancer
   Fractures
2. Frozen shoulder and joint ailments
3. Carpal tunnel syndrome
4. Testicular & ovarian issues

Depending on the medical condition that the ultrasound scan is to be performed, the doctor might advise you to:

• Drink plenty of water, but not go to the washroom before the scan
• Avoid foods and fluids a few hours before the scan

Yes. A transvaginal ultrasound scan can be performed during menstruation. However, if you are wearing a tampon or a sanitary pad, the radiologist will request you to remove it before the test.

Generally, the doctor recommends an ultrasound scan during 6 to 8 weeks of pregnancy, during the first prenatal consultation.

However, ultrasound scans are deemed necessary in case of high-risk pregnancies to detect or if you are experiencing:

1.  Stomach pain
2.  Bleeding
3.  Birth defects
4.  Other pregnancy complications

The ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves instead of electromagnetic radiation, due to which it is deemed as a safe image diagnostic tool with no known side effects.

Yes, an abdominal ultrasound can detect and identify digestive gastritis.

No, ultrasound scans cannot detect ulcers. However, other diagnostic tests such as an X-ray and endoscopy can easily confirm the presence of ulcers. 

Yes, an ultrasound scan can detect and identify liver damage, which in conjunction with liver biopsy can assist in diagnosing a host of liver diseases.