The following preparations are specific instructions for the tests performed at The Women's Health Center of Hunterdon County.  All laboratory tests require a physicians order in writing.  Many procedures require pre-authorization from your insurance carrier, call your insurance company's customer service or our business office (908) 782-1137 to confirm.

Abdominal Ultrasound - NPO after midnight (nothing to eat or drink after midnight), abdominal ultrasounds usually are ordered for evaluation of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys and generally the upper abdomen or above the belly-button.  If your symptoms are below the belly-button, check with your physician, they may need a Pelvic Ultrasound instead or in addition to.

Amniocentesis - No preparation, obtain instruction packet with consent form.  Consent form required.

Biophysical Profile - No preparation, prenatal ultrasound to evaluate fetal health and well being.

Breast Cyst Aspiration - No preparation, usually follows confirmation of tender or painful breast cysts, no aspirin products 48 hours prior to procedure. Consent form required.

Breast Mass Biopsy - No preparation, usually follows confirmation of a solid or complex breast mass, no aspirin products 48 hours prior to procedure.  Consent form required.

Breast Ultrasound - No preparation, usually follows an abnormal or unclear finding on a mammogram.

Colposcopy - No preparation, can not be performed during your menstrual period.

Dexa Scan (Bone Density) - No preparation, wear comfortable clothing without metal buttons, buckles or zippers which may interfere with scanning of the spine and/or hip region.

Endometrial Biopsy - If being performed as part of an infertility work-up, a pregnancy test is required the day before the biopsy, consent form required, can not be performed during your menstrual period.

Follicle Study (Ultrasound) - No full bladder required, usually a series of endovaginal ultrasounds to monitor the growth and number of ovarian follicles.  Additional blood tests may be required on each visit.

Leep Procedure - Performed for treatment of abnormal pap test, consent form required, can not be performed during your menstrual period.

Mammography - No creams or deodorants immediately prior to exam.  If previous mammograms are from another facility, make arrangements to have them delivered or sign them out yourself and bring them with you.  This is very important for comparison viewing and interpretations.

Obstetrical or Prenatal Ultrasound - No full bladder required, early gestations may require an endovaginal sonogram for optimal detail.

Pelvic Ultrasound (Non pregnant) - Full urinary bladder, 2 hours prior to exam, drink three to four, eight oz. glasses of water and retain a full bladder upon arrival to appointment.  Standard protocol may include an endovaginal sonogram following the transabdominal full bladder technique.

Post Coital Test - Intercourse between 1 to 4 hours prior to appointment.

Renal/Bladder Ultrasound - Moderate hydration a few hours prior to study, does not require a full bladder, no restriction on foods.

Scrotal/Testicular Ultrasound - No preparation

Sonohysterogram (Pelvic Ultrasound) - Endovaginal ultrasound with instillation of fluid into the uterine cavity by physician, no full bladder required.

Thyroid Ultrasound - No preparation.

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http://www.whchc.com/test_prep.htm -- Revised: 09/12/06

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