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Ultrasound

Kidney and bladder ultrasound

A scan of the kidneys and bladder showing stones, obstruction, cysts and bladder emptying.

What to expect

  • Preparation: Preparation varies - abdominal scans usually need a few hours of fasting, pelvic scans a full bladder, and most musculoskeletal scans none at all. Your booking confirmation sets out exactly what to do.
  • During the test: Warm gel is applied to the skin and a handheld probe is moved over the area. The scan is painless and usually takes 15-30 minutes.
  • Results: Many clinics discuss preliminary findings on the day, with a formal report from the sonographer or consultant radiologist within 24-48 hours.
  • Who follows up: The report goes to your referring GP or specialist, who explains the findings and arranges any follow-up.
  • Cost: an indicative cost varies by provider.

About this test

A scan of the kidneys and bladder showing stones, obstruction, cysts and bladder emptying. It is usually recommended for urinary symptoms, recurrent infections or abnormal kidney blood tests.

How to access it privately

You can arrange a private ultrasound either with a referral from your GP or specialist or, for most scans, by self-referring as a self-pay patient. Routine NHS diagnostic waits are often long - frequently measured in months - whereas private slots are typically available within days to around two weeks, often sooner for ultrasound. Costs vary by provider and should be confirmed with the provider before booking.

Frequently asked

Common questions about Kidney and bladder ultrasound.

Quick, plain-English answers to what people ask us most.

  • What is a kidney and bladder ultrasound?

    This is a non-invasive imaging scan that uses sound waves to create pictures of the kidneys and bladder, helping to assess their size, structure and any visible abnormalities such as stones, cysts or blockages.

  • Why would a doctor order this scan?

    It's commonly used to investigate symptoms like abdominal or flank pain, urinary problems, blood in the urine, or abnormal kidney function blood tests, and to check for structural issues such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate affecting bladder emptying.

  • Do I need to prepare for this scan?

    You're usually asked to arrive with a full bladder for the bladder portion of the scan, meaning you may need to drink water and avoid urinating beforehand; the kidney portion typically needs no special preparation.

  • What happens during the scan?

    A gel is applied to your abdomen and a handheld probe is moved over the area to capture images of the kidneys and bladder on a screen. The scan is painless and usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes.

  • Does it hurt or carry any risks?

    Ultrasound is non-invasive and uses no radiation, so it carries no known risk; you may feel some mild pressure from the probe, and needing a full bladder can be uncomfortable but is temporary.

  • How long do results take?

    A radiologist typically reviews the images and produces a report within a few days, though your referring doctor will confirm the specific timeframe for your results.

  • What do abnormal results mean, and what happens next?

    Findings such as kidney stones, cysts or an enlarged prostate are often manageable and sometimes don't need urgent treatment, while signs of blockage or significant structural changes may prompt further imaging or specialist referral. Your doctor will interpret the findings alongside your symptoms and other test results to decide on next steps.

  • Is this scan available on the NHS, and how much does private testing cost?

    It's routinely available on the NHS, though waiting times can vary depending on urgency and local demand. Private imaging centres can typically offer an appointment within days, with results reviewed by a specialist, and cost varying by provider.

  • How accurate is a kidney and bladder ultrasound?

    It's a reliable first-line imaging test for many kidney and bladder conditions, though it has limitations for detecting certain smaller or deeper abnormalities, in which case further imaging like a CT scan might be recommended.

  • How do I book this scan privately?

    You can book a private ultrasound directly, often without needing a GP referral, with appointments typically available within a few days and results explained by a specialist.