At a glance
- How long
- 20–45 minutes
- How to prepare
- Depends on your exam Preparation instructions
- Cost
- Covered by OHIP With a requisition
- Results
- 24 to 48 hours Report sent to your doctor
Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive scan that uses sound waves, not radiation, to create real-time images inside your body. It is one of the safest and most widely used imaging tests, which is why it is commonly used to diagnose conditions, guide treatment and monitor health, especially during pregnancy.
Why patients choose ultrasound
- No radiation, safe for all ages, including pregnancy.
- Real-time imaging, for accurate assessment.
- Comfortable and non-invasive, no needles, no dye, no recovery time.
- Performed by experienced, certified technologists registered with Sonography Canada.
What can ultrasound detect?
Abdominal
- Examines organs like the liver, gallbladder, kidneys and pancreas
- Helps identify pain, inflammation or abnormalities
Breast
- Evaluates lumps or changes
- Often used alongside mammography, especially for dense tissue
Pregnancy (obstetric)
- Confirms and monitors pregnancy
- Assesses fetal growth, position and overall health
Pelvis
- For women: uterus and ovaries
- For men: bladder and prostate
- May be performed externally or internally depending on the exam
Vascular (carotid and aorta)
- Assesses blood flow and circulation
- Screens for blockages or aneurysms that could lead to stroke
What to expect
- Most exams take 15 to 30 minutes.
- A gel is applied to the skin for clear imaging.
- Some exams may require a full bladder or specific prep.
- Our team will guide you through every step.
How to prepare
- Abdominal, morning appointment (before 1pm): nothing to eat or drink after midnight
- Abdominal, afternoon appointment (after 1pm): a light breakfast of dry toast, black tea or coffee, or juice before 8:00am. No dairy, no lunch
- Pelvic: drink 1L of water an hour before and hold it
- Obstetric (pregnancy): drink 1L of water, finishing 1 hour before, and hold it. You may eat as usual
- Everything else: no preparation
Where to have it done
- 123 Edward Street 123 Edward Street, Suite 600, Toronto Book
- Eglinton Avenue East 150 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 301, Toronto Book
- Etobicoke 3170 Lake Shore Blvd West, Suite 101, Etobicoke Book
- Keele & Ingram 2221 Keele Street, Suite 106, North York Book
- Lawrence & Dufferin 960 Lawrence Ave. West, Suite 203, North York Book
- Scarborough 1371 Neilson Road, Suite 309, Scarborough Book
- University Heights 1275 Finch Ave W, Suite 114, North York Book
- Woodbridge 4600 Highway 7 West, Unit LL30, Woodbridge Book
- Belleville 210 Dundas Street East, Suite 301, Belleville Book
- Port Hope 249 Ontario Street, Suite 110, Port Hope Book
Find a clinic near you
Ultrasound exams we explain
Common questions
How soon can I get an ultrasound?
Most appointments are available within 48 hours. Book online or call 416-462-0064.
Do I need a requisition for an ultrasound?
For an OHIP-covered ultrasound, yes. We accept a valid requisition from any licensed Ontario healthcare provider, on any form, from any clinic or hospital. A 3D/4D keepsake ultrasound needs no requisition.
Is ultrasound covered by OHIP?
Yes. With a valid requisition, OHIP covers ultrasound in full. There is no co-payment, no facility fee and nothing to claim back.
How much does an ultrasound cost without OHIP?
An abdominal or pelvic ultrasound is $145, a thyroid ultrasound $280 and a carotid Doppler $150, as on our cash fee schedule (October 2026, HST exempt). Call 416-462-0064 for the price of your scan.
How do I prepare for an ultrasound?
It depends on the scan. An abdominal ultrasound needs an empty stomach; a pelvic or pregnancy ultrasound needs a full bladder. Your exact steps are in the preparation instructions.
How long does an ultrasound take?
Usually 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the exam.
When will my doctor get the results?
The radiologist's report reaches your doctor in 24 to 48 hours. You can also see your images and reports online through PocketHealth.