The test itself does not hurt. Ultrasound technology relies on soundwave emission from a handheld probe placed on the skin rather than radiation, making it a painless procedure with no known harmful effects. Any discomfort is usually minimal. Patients remain fully clothed and only need to expose the area being examined.

The sonographer may apply some pressure with the ultrasound probe to get clearer images, which could feel briefly uncomfortable. Sometimes, patients are asked to hold in any gas or breathe in specific ways to visualize organs better. This may result in mild temporary cramping or bloating. Letting the sonographer know is important to minimize any pain.

In most cases though, an abdominal ultrasound is not a painful procedure. The majority of discomfort is often due to the reason the test was ordered, rather than the test itself. Understanding that any pain should be minimal during this quick, safe and common imaging exam can help patients feel at ease.