---
title: "Abdominal Ultrasound in Tirana: Full Guide | Klinika Gjata"
description: "Abdominal ultrasound in Tirana: how to prepare, full bladder, whether to fast, how long it takes and what it shows. Book at Klinika Gjata: +355 4 234 0059."
lang: en
url: https://klinikagjata.com/en/services/ultrasound-exams/abdominal-ultrasound/
alternates:
  sq: https://klinikagjata.com/sherbimet/ekografi-ekzaminime/ekografi-abdominale/
  en: https://klinikagjata.com/en/services/ultrasound-exams/abdominal-ultrasound/
  it: https://klinikagjata.com/it/servizi/ecografia-esami/ecografia-addominale/
  fr: https://klinikagjata.com/fr/services/echographie-examens/echographie-abdominale/
---

# Abdominal ultrasound: a complete guide for women

> An abdominal ultrasound is a scan that uses sound waves and a probe moved over the tummy. Nothing goes inside the body and there is no radiation. At an obstetrics-gynaecology clinic it is used mainly to look at the pelvic organs (uterus, ovaries, bladder), to follow pregnancy after the first trimester, and as part of a wider women’s health assessment. At Klinika Gjata in Tirana, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elinda Gjata performs and interprets the scan herself during your visit, on a GE Voluson system.

- **What it is:** Ultrasound with the probe on the tummy, nothing internal
- **Duration:** Usually 15–30 minutes
- **Preparation:** Full bladder; fasting only when requested
- **Pain:** Painless, only light pressure
- **Radiation:** None; it uses sound waves
- **Results:** Explained by the doctor during the same visit
- **Where:** Klinika Gjata, Rruga Hasan Sufa, Tirana

## What is an abdominal ultrasound?

An abdominal ultrasound is an imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to look at the organs inside the abdomen and pelvis. A probe is placed on the skin over a layer of gel, and the picture appears on screen straight away. There are no needles, no incisions and no radiation.

Short definition: an abdominal (transabdominal) ultrasound, often just called a tummy scan, means the probe moves over the outside of the abdomen. A transvaginal ultrasound is different: a slim probe is placed inside the vagina.

In general medicine, “abdominal ultrasound” often means a scan of the upper abdominal organs: liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen and kidneys (RadiologyInfo, ACR/RSNA). At an obstetrics-gynaecology clinic such as Klinika Gjata, the focus is different:

- the pelvic organs, seen from outside: uterus, endometrium (womb lining), ovaries and bladder;
- pregnancy after the first trimester, once the uterus has risen above the pubic bone and is easy to see through the abdomen;
- a look at the kidneys, the bladder and, when there is a reason, the liver, as part of a complete women’s health assessment.

Detailed upper-abdominal problems, such as liver, pancreatic or bile-duct disease, need a specialised examination. For these the doctor may refer you to a radiologist or a gastroenterologist.

## Abdominal or transvaginal ultrasound: which one, and why?

Short answer: an abdominal ultrasound gives a wider view and needs no internal probe. A transvaginal ultrasound gives more detailed images of the uterus and ovaries, because the probe sits closer to them. The doctor chooses one or both, depending on the clinical question.

How they differ:

- Probe position: on the tummy for abdominal, inside the vagina for transvaginal.
- Bladder: an abdominal scan usually needs a full bladder, because the urine acts as a “window” for the sound waves. A transvaginal scan needs an empty bladder (RadiologyInfo; hospital guidance in France and Canada).
- Detail: abdominal probes use lower frequencies, around 3–5 MHz in comparative studies. These reach deeper but show less detail. The vaginal probe uses higher frequencies and gives better resolution in the pelvis.
- Field of view: the abdominal scan covers a larger area. This helps when the uterus is enlarged, when fibroids or cysts are large, or when organs sit higher up.
- Comfort: an abdominal scan is entirely external. A transvaginal scan is usually not painful, but some women find it less comfortable.

An abdominal ultrasound is usually chosen:

- for women who have never had sexual intercourse, and for girls and teenagers;
- in pregnancy after the first trimester;
- when the uterus or a pelvic mass is large and extends above the pelvis;
- when a woman does not want, or cannot have, a vaginal scan;
- when the bladder or kidneys also need to be checked.

A transvaginal scan is preferred in early pregnancy, for precise measurement of the endometrium, for the ovaries and follicles (for example in fertility treatment), and for small cysts.

The two are often combined in the same visit. The doctor first scans through the tummy with a full bladder. Then, if you agree, she scans vaginally with an empty bladder. No vaginal examination is ever done without your consent.

## When do you need an abdominal ultrasound? Symptoms and reasons

An abdominal ultrasound is requested when the doctor needs to see the pelvic or abdominal organs. The aim may be to explain a symptom, to follow a known condition or to check a pregnancy.

The most common reasons at a gynaecology clinic:

- lower abdominal or pelvic pain, sudden or recurring;
- bloating or a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen that does not go away;
- irregular cycles, very heavy or painful periods, or bleeding between periods;
- suspected ovarian cysts or uterine fibroids, or follow-up of known ones;
- pregnancy follow-up after the first trimester: the baby’s growth and position, the placenta and the amniotic fluid, as the doctor judges necessary;
- urinary symptoms, such as frequent urination, a feeling that the bladder does not empty, or pain in the side of the back, because ultrasound shows the bladder and kidneys;
- a check before or after a gynaecological procedure;
- assessment in girls and teenagers, for example for pain or cycle problems. RadiologyInfo also mentions early or delayed puberty.

Remember: an ultrasound does not replace a consultation. The doctor puts the findings together with your history, the clinical examination and, when needed, blood or urine tests.

Some situations cannot wait for an appointment. Severe, sudden abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, high fever with pain, or severe pain in pregnancy need urgent care. In these cases call at once or go to the emergency department.

## How does an ultrasound scan work?

Ultrasound works like an echo. The probe sends very fast sound waves that the human ear cannot hear. The waves bounce off the organs, and the probe picks up the returning echoes. The machine turns these echoes into a real-time image.

Why you need gel and a full bladder:

- The gel removes air between the skin and the probe, because air blocks sound waves.
- A bladder full of urine pushes gas-filled bowel aside and opens a clear “window” onto the uterus and ovaries.

What the doctor sees on screen:

- Fluids look black, for example urine in the bladder or the contents of a simple cyst.
- Solid tissues appear in shades of grey.
- Bone and calcifications look white and cast a “shadow”.

Many machines also have a Doppler mode, which shows blood flow in the vessels (RadiologyInfo). The doctor decides case by case whether it is needed.

At Klinika Gjata the scan is performed on a GE Voluson ultrasound system, a range designed for obstetrics and gynaecology. The quality of a scan does not depend on the machine alone. It also depends on the experience of the doctor who performs and interprets it.

## How is an abdominal ultrasound done, step by step?

The scan usually takes 15–30 minutes. For ultrasound scans in general, the NHS gives a range of 10 to 45 minutes, depending on what needs to be seen. This is what happens:

1. Booking: call +355 4 234 0059. When you book you are told how to prepare: how much water to drink and whether you need to fast.
2. Arrival: bring previous scans, test results and reports, and a list of the medicines you take.
3. Talk with the doctor: Dr. Gjata asks about your symptoms, your cycle, any current or past pregnancy, and the reason for the scan.
4. Position: you lie on your back and uncover only your lower abdomen. The rest of your body stays covered.
5. Gel: a cool, water-based gel is applied to the skin.
6. Scanning: the doctor moves the probe over your tummy and may press gently to see better. She may ask you to breathe in deeply, hold your breath for a few seconds or turn slightly onto your side.
7. Explanation on screen: if you wish, the doctor shows you what she is looking at.
8. A transvaginal scan is done only if needed and with your consent. In that case you empty your bladder first, and then the vaginal part is done.
9. Finishing: the gel is wiped off and you can go to the toilet straight away.
10. Results and next steps: because the doctor performs and interprets the scan herself, she explains the findings and the next steps during the same visit.

Afterwards you can eat, drive and go back to work. There is no recovery time.

## How do I prepare for an abdominal ultrasound? Full bladder and eating

The main preparation for a pelvic abdominal ultrasound is a full bladder. Fasting is needed only when the upper abdomen, for example the gallbladder, also has to be seen. You are given the exact instructions for your case when you book. Follow them, because they vary with the reason for the scan.

How a full bladder is usually requested:

- Do not urinate for 2–3 hours before the scan, and drink still water about an hour before, often 0.5–1 litre (4–5 glasses). This is what patient leaflets from hospitals such as Humanitas, Policlinico San Matteo in Pavia and a university hospital in Montreal ask for.
- Do not drink so much that it hurts. A moderately full bladder is enough.
- If you urinate by mistake, drink more water and tell the clinic.
- If you have heart or kidney disease and your fluid intake is restricted, ask your doctor before drinking large amounts.

Should I eat before the ultrasound?

- For a pelvic or pregnancy scan you can usually eat normally.
- When the gallbladder or upper abdomen needs to be seen, many centres ask for about 6 hours of fasting (for example Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia), and some ask for 8. After a meal the gallbladder empties and is harder to see.
- Take your usual medicines as normal unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
- Some centres advise a light diet the day before, with no fizzy drinks, to reduce bowel gas.

What to wear and bring:

- comfortable clothes, ideally a top with trousers or a skirt, so that you only need to uncover your tummy;
- previous scans and test results;
- in pregnancy, your pregnancy record or follow-up documents;
- the date of your last period.

## Does an abdominal ultrasound hurt, and is it safe?

An abdominal ultrasound is painless and uses no radiation. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasound uses sound waves (NHS). According to RadiologyInfo (ACR/RSNA), standard diagnostic ultrasound has no known harmful effects in humans.

What you may feel:

- the coolness of the gel at first;
- light pressure when the doctor presses the probe;
- a strong urge to urinate, because your bladder is full;
- some discomfort if the area is already sore.

You can ask the doctor to stop at any time.

Safety in pregnancy:

- The European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (EFSUMB) states that there is no reason to withhold medically indicated diagnostic ultrasound in pregnancy, provided it is used prudently by fully trained operators.
- The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) recommends the ALARA principle: exposure as low as reasonably achievable.
- The International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) does not endorse scans done for non-diagnostic purposes, such as “souvenir” scans only.

Put simply: ultrasound is safe when it is done for a medical reason, by a trained doctor, for as long as it needs to take.

Privacy: only the part of the abdomen being examined is uncovered. The rest of your body stays covered.

## What does an abdominal ultrasound show, and what can’t it show?

An abdominal ultrasound shows the shape, size and structure of organs. It can also tell whether a lump is filled with fluid or solid. It does not see air-filled organs such as the bowel well, and it does not always give a final diagnosis.

What can be assessed during a gynaecology visit:

- the uterus: its size, shape and position, and fibroids, especially large or multiple ones;
- the endometrium: its approximate thickness, though detail often needs a transvaginal scan;
- the ovaries: their size and any cysts, especially larger ones;
- free fluid in the pelvis;
- the bladder: how full it is, its wall and, when requested, how much urine remains after you urinate;
- the kidneys: their size, any widening of the urinary drainage system (hydronephrosis) or visible stones;
- the liver and gallbladder: a general look, when there is a clinical reason;
- in pregnancy after the first trimester: the baby’s heartbeat, position and growth measurements, the placenta and the amniotic fluid.

Limits you should know about:

- Bowel gas and air block the sound waves, so the bowel and the organs behind it are poorly seen (RadiologyInfo).
- Ultrasound cannot pass through bone.
- In people with a larger body size, extra tissue weakens the waves and the image is less clear (RadiologyInfo).
- Small cysts, polyps and endometrial detail are seen better on a transvaginal scan.
- The stomach and bowel are better examined by gastroscopy or colonoscopy, as radiologists also explain in the Albanian media (Telegrafi).
- An ultrasound can show that something is not normal without always showing exactly what it is. Sometimes blood tests, MRI, CT or follow-up over time are needed.

For detailed upper-abdominal problems, such as symptomatic gallstones or liver and pancreatic disease, Dr. Gjata may refer you to a radiologist or gastroenterologist.

## When will I get my ultrasound results, and what happens next?

At Klinika Gjata you get your result during the same visit, because the doctor performs and interprets the scan herself. In many hospital systems a radiologist reads the images and sends a report to the doctor who requested the scan, which can take days or weeks (NHS, RadiologyInfo).

What can happen after the scan:

- Normal findings: the doctor explains that there are no worrying signs and tells you when to come back for a check-up.
- Findings that need follow-up: for example, a simple functional cyst is often rechecked after one or two cycles, because many disappear on their own.
- Further tests: a transvaginal scan, blood or urine tests, or a pregnancy test.
- Treatment: when a finding needs treatment, the doctor discusses the options with you.
- Referral: for upper-abdominal, kidney or bowel problems, the doctor may refer you to a radiologist, gastroenterologist, urologist or other specialist, or for tests such as MRI or CT.

Questions worth asking:

- What exactly does my scan show?
- Do I need to repeat it, and when?
- Do I need any other tests?
- Which symptoms should make me call straight away?

## Ultrasound for girls, teenagers and women who have never had sex

For girls, teenagers and any woman who has never had sexual intercourse, the non-invasive option is an abdominal ultrasound. Everything is done from the outside, over the tummy, and the hymen is not touched. A transvaginal scan is not performed in these cases.

Why it works well:

- With a full bladder, the uterus and ovaries can be seen well enough in most cases for the most common questions: painful periods, irregular cycles, cysts, or suspected puberty disorders.
- According to RadiologyInfo, pelvic ultrasound in girls is used for pelvic pain, masses, anomalies of the organs, and early or delayed puberty.

Tips for parents:

- Explain to your child beforehand that it does not hurt. She will feel only cool gel and a probe gliding over her tummy.
- Young children can find it hard to fill their bladder. Ask when you book how much water they should drink.
- A book, music or a toy helps a child stay still, which matters because movement makes the scan take longer (RadiologyInfo).
- Teenagers often feel more at ease when they have a chance to talk with the doctor on their own for part of the visit.

If the view through the tummy is not enough for a specific question, the doctor discusses other options with you and the parents, such as MRI.

## Why have your abdominal ultrasound at Klinika Gjata in Tirana?

At Klinika Gjata the same doctor who sees you also performs and interprets the scan, in the same visit, with no one in between.

- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elinda Gjata, MD, Dr. Sc., is an obstetrician-gynaecologist with more than 25 years of experience and an Associate Professor at the University of Medicine, Tirana.
- She trained in ultrasound at the Ian Donald School, an international school of ultrasound in obstetrics and gynaecology named after the Scottish pioneer of obstetric ultrasound.
- Scans are performed on a GE Voluson system, designed for obstetrics and gynaecology.
- The clinic has been working in Tirana since 2009, on Rruga Hasan Sufa.
- You get your answer in the same visit: the scan is linked straight away to your history, the clinical examination and the follow-up plan.
- Limits are stated clearly: when a problem needs a radiologist, gastroenterologist or other specialist, you are referred there.

To book: +355 4 234 0059.

## How much does an abdominal ultrasound cost? What affects the price

Prices are not published here, because the cost depends on what your case needs. For accurate information, call +355 4 234 0059.

Factors that usually affect the cost:

- whether the scan is part of a gynaecology or pregnancy consultation;
- whether you need only an abdominal scan, or a transvaginal scan as well in the same visit;
- the reason for the scan and how many organs need to be assessed;
- in pregnancy, the stage of pregnancy and the type of assessment needed;
- whether follow-up scans or further tests are needed.

Tip: when you call, mention the reason for the scan (for example pain, a pregnancy check or cysts). That way you get the right information and the right preparation instructions.

## Frequently asked questions

### Should I eat before an abdominal ultrasound?

For a pelvic or pregnancy scan you can usually eat normally. Fasting, usually for about 6 hours, is needed when the gallbladder or upper abdomen has to be seen. You are given the instructions for your case when you book.

### How much water should I drink before the scan?

Many hospitals advise 0.5–1 litre of still water about an hour before the scan, and not urinating for 2–3 hours beforehand. The aim is a moderately full bladder, not a painful one. Follow the amount you are given when you book.

### What happens if my bladder isn’t full enough?

The uterus and ovaries may look less clear. You are usually asked to drink a little more water and wait a few minutes. When it is appropriate and you agree, the doctor may suggest a transvaginal scan instead.

### How long does an abdominal ultrasound take?

Usually 15–30 minutes. For ultrasound scans in general, the NHS gives 10 to 45 minutes. The time depends on how many organs need to be seen and whether a transvaginal part is added.

### Does an abdominal ultrasound hurt?

No. You feel cool gel and light pressure. The most common discomfort is the need to urinate, because your bladder is full. If the area is sore, tell the doctor.

### Is ultrasound safe in pregnancy?

Yes, when there is a medical reason and a trained doctor performs it. According to EFSUMB, there is no reason to withhold medically indicated diagnostic ultrasound in pregnancy. AIUM recommends exposure as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA). Ultrasound uses no radiation.

### From which week of pregnancy is the scan done through the tummy?

In early pregnancy a transvaginal scan is often preferred, because the embryo is small and deep in the pelvis. After the first trimester the uterus rises above the pubic bone, and an abdominal scan is usually enough. The doctor decides case by case.

### Can I have an abdominal ultrasound during my period?

Yes. Periods do not get in the way of a tummy scan. For some questions, such as endometrial thickness or functional cysts, the doctor may prefer a particular phase of the cycle. Ask when you book.

### Which is better: abdominal or transvaginal ultrasound?

Neither is better in every case. A transvaginal scan gives more detail of the uterus, endometrium and ovaries. An abdominal scan gives a wider view and needs no internal probe. They are often combined in the same visit.

### Can I have an ultrasound if I have never had sex?

Yes. You have an abdominal ultrasound, from the outside, with a full bladder. The hymen is not touched and no transvaginal scan is done.

### Are the liver and kidneys checked during a gynaecological scan?

The kidneys, the bladder and, when there is a reason, the liver can be looked at as part of a women’s health assessment. For detailed upper-abdominal problems, the doctor may refer you to a radiologist or gastroenterologist.

### Does an abdominal ultrasound show cysts and fibroids?

Yes. It usually shows ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids, especially larger ones. Small lesions and their detail are seen better on a transvaginal scan.

### Can endometriosis be diagnosed with an abdominal ultrasound?

Not always. Ultrasound can show ovarian cysts linked to endometriosis (endometriomas), but superficial forms are often not visible. A normal scan does not rule out endometriosis. The doctor decides whether other tests are needed.

### What should I wear for the ultrasound?

Comfortable clothes, ideally in two pieces (a top with trousers or a skirt), so that you only need to uncover your lower tummy. Leave bulky jewellery at home.

### What should I bring?

Previous scans, test results and reports, a list of your medicines and the date of your last period. If you are pregnant, bring your pregnancy follow-up documents too.

### Does the ultrasound gel stain clothes?

The gel is water-based and wipes off easily with paper at the end of the scan. It rarely stains, but comfortable clothes make things simpler.

### Can my partner or someone else come with me?

Usually a trusted person can come with you. Girls under 18 usually come with a parent or guardian. If you have a particular need, ask when you book.

### How often should an abdominal ultrasound be done?

There is no single schedule for every woman. It depends on the reason: a cyst may be rechecked after a few weeks, a fibroid without symptoms less often, and a pregnancy according to its follow-up plan. The doctor tells you when to come back.

### When should I go to emergency care instead of waiting for an appointment?

Severe, sudden abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, fever with pain, or pain and bleeding in pregnancy need urgent care. Call or go to the emergency department straight away.

---

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> The information on this page is general and does not replace a medical consultation.

- **Address:** Rruga Hasan Sufa, Pall. 3, Shk. 2, Ap. 12, Tiranë, Albania
- **Phone:** +355 4 234 0059
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- **Email:** klinikagjata@hotmail.com
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