Ultrasound diagnostics (ultrasound): types, prices and preparation rules

• Author of the article: Ultrasound doctor Tetiana Volodymyrivna Permiakova
• Updated: 24 November 2025
• Reading time: 7 minutes

What does an ultrasound show?

Ultrasound shows the size, shape, and structure of organs, the presence of cysts, tumors, inflammation, stones, and fluid; with Doppler — blood flow (speed and direction). The doctor can assess organ function in real time — heart contractility, fetal movement, bladder filling, etc.

Main types of ultrasound

Today, there are several main types of ultrasound, each with its own purpose and application. It is important to know when and why to undergo a particular type.

◉ Abdominal ultrasound

The abdominal examination includes the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. This test helps detect inflammatory processes, gallstones, tumors, and cysts. It is often used for the initial diagnosis of abdominal pain or digestive disorders.

Gastroenterologists note that abdominal ultrasound is the gold standard for detecting digestive system pathologies. It is important that ultrasound can reveal even minor structural changes, which may be the first signal for more serious examinations.

◉ Thyroid ultrasound

The thyroid gland controls metabolism and produces hormones, making its function extremely important for overall health. Ultrasound helps detect nodules, cysts, and inflammatory processes (thyroiditis). It is prescribed when hormone levels change or dysfunction is suspected.

Studies show that thyroid nodules occur in 50% of people over 50, but most are benign. Timely ultrasound helps monitor the gland and control potential risks.

◉ Vascular ultrasound (Dopplerography)

Dopplerography is a specialized ultrasound method that examines blood circulation in vessels. It allows assessment of blood flow speed and direction, detection of clots, narrowing, atherosclerotic plaques, and aneurysms.

Thanks to Doppler technology, doctors receive accurate information about veins and arteries, helping diagnose circulation disorders in time and prevent serious complications.

Vascular ultrasound is important for patients with cardiovascular diseases, high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, and risk of thrombosis or atherosclerosis.

The clinic performs ultrasound of vessels of the head and neck, lower limbs, renal and abdominal arteries. Early diagnosis significantly reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.

The examination is performed using modern ultrasound equipment, ensuring high accuracy and reliability.

◉ Obstetric ultrasound

One of the most important types of ultrasound, allowing monitoring of fetal development throughout pregnancy. It is performed in different trimesters to assess the placenta, amniotic fluid, fetal size, and development. In later stages, fetal position and readiness for childbirth are also evaluated.

The first trimester is critical for detecting abnormalities, so it is recommended at 12 weeks. This allows timely response to possible developmental deviations.

◉ Echocardiography

A method of examining the heart using ultrasound, allowing evaluation of the heart muscle, valves, and rhythm disturbances. Recommended for suspected heart failure, coronary artery disease, or congenital defects.

It is an essential part of cardiological examination and helps detect disorders at early stages, even before symptoms appear, preventing severe complications.

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◉ Male ultrasound

A комплекс of ultrasound examinations aimed at diagnosing diseases of the male genitourinary system.

The examination evaluates:

• prostate gland

• bladder

• testicles

• epididymis

It can also detect:

• inflammatory processes

• tumors

• cysts

• varicocele

• signs of impaired blood supply

Most often, prostate ultrasound is performed (transabdominal or transrectal), helping diagnose prostatitis, adenoma, and other conditions. Recommended for men over 40 and in case of symptoms such as urination disorders, groin pain, or decreased potency.

Ultrasound for children: safe and informative diagnostics

Ultrasound is one of the most reliable and widely used diagnostic methods in pediatrics. Due to its safety and painlessness, it is widely used to assess internal organs, monitor development, and detect disorders early.

It is especially valuable because it provides detailed information without burdening the body, making it suitable even for newborns.

Why ultrasound is important for children

Complete safety
No ionizing radiation, suitable for all ages, including newborns.

Early detection of pathologies
Helps detect congenital features or dysfunctions early.

Monitoring development
Allows observation of organ growth and early detection of deviations.

Speed and comfort
Procedure takes 15–30 minutes, painless, results often available immediately.

How to prepare a child for ultrasound?

Main recommendations:

• Explain the procedure in simple words

• Rehearse the situation at home (play “doctor”)

• Follow dietary recommendations (3–6 hours fasting if needed)

• Choose comfortable clothing

• Stay with the child during the procedure

• Bring a favorite toy or book

The ZDRAVO clinic provides comfortable conditions and experienced specialists.

Advantages of ultrasound

Safety
No radiation, safe even for pregnant women and children.

Detailed information
Detects inflammation, cysts, tumors, early changes.

Painless and comfortable
10–30 minutes, no discomfort.

Wide application
Used for heart, liver, kidneys, thyroid, pelvic organs, etc.

Dynamic monitoring
Allows repeated examinations and tracking changes.

Cost of popular ultrasound services in Zdravo (Mykolaiv)

• Abdominal ultrasound — 650 UAH

• Thyroid ultrasound — 500 UAH

• Kidney ultrasound — 500 UAH

• Heart ultrasound (EchoCG) — 800 UAH

• Breast ultrasound — 650 UAH

• Pelvic ultrasound — 500 UAH

View full price list.

Contraindications

• Acute inflammation

• Severe conditions

• Metal implants (may affect visualization)

• Early pregnancy (with caution)

• Allergy to gel

• Skin damage in examined area

• Severe cardiovascular diseases

• Decompensated chronic diseases

There are no absolute contraindications.

Preparation for ultrasound

Food intake
Avoid food 6–8 hours before abdominal ultrasound.

Category

ALLOWED (day before)
PROHIBITED (before ultrasound)

Meat and fish
Boiled chicken, turkey, lean fish
Fried meat, sausages, smoked products

Fruits and vegetables
Boiled carrots, beets, baked apples
Raw cabbage, legumes, grapes, fresh apples

Drinks
Still water, weak tea
Carbonated drinks, coffee, milk, alcohol

Other
Porridge on water, hard cheese
Black bread, pastries, sweets

General recommendations

• Drink enough water

• Consult a doctor if you have chronic diseases

• Do not smoke before the procedure

Take care of your health — get an ultrasound at Zdravo

We offer a wide range of ultrasound services to help monitor your health and detect issues early.