Preparing for your maternity ultrasound is exciting, but it often comes with small questions that can make a big difference, like what should I wear? Whether it’s your first scan or a follow-up, wearing the right outfit can make the entire experience smoother, more comfortable, and even improve the quality of the images captured.
At TrueView Ultrasound in Roseville, we want every expectant parent to feel at ease and confident during their session. This guide will help you choose the best outfit for your appointment while explaining why clothing matters for both comfort and image clarity.
Why Does It Matter What You Wear?
Ultrasound technology works by sending sound waves through your body to produce internal images. To do this effectively, a transducer must have direct contact with your skin, usually on your lower belly during maternity scans. That means whatever you’re wearing needs to allow easy access to your abdomen without compromising modesty or comfort.
Depending on whether you’re scheduled for an early internal ultrasound or a later external one, the best outfit can vary slightly.
Best Outfits for an External Maternity Ultrasound
Most standard pregnancy scans—including gender reveals and 3D/4D keepsake imaging—are done externally with a transducer on your belly. For these, here are some ideal clothing tips:
- Wear a two-piece outfit. A stretchy shirt with leggings, yoga pants, or a skirt works perfectly. This lets you lift the top and lower the bottom slightly without needing to undress.
- Avoid dresses or full-body rompers. These often require full removal to access your stomach, which can be less convenient.
- Opt for loose, comfortable fabrics. Tight clothes may need to be adjusted or removed entirely, while softer materials are easier to reposition.
- Skip one-piece maternity jumpsuits. While stylish, these aren’t the most scan-friendly choice for belly access.
Many clients who book with our fetal imaging team choose comfortable outfits that also look nice in any keepsake video or photo recordings of their baby’s session.
What to Wear for an Internal Ultrasound
If you’re in the first trimester, or if your provider needs a clearer view of your uterus or ovaries, you may be scheduled for a transvaginal ultrasound. This type of scan involves a small, wand-like probe inserted into the vaginal canal while you lie back comfortably.
In this case:
- Wear clothes that are easy to remove from the waist down, such as leggings, soft pants, or skirts.
- You’ll be provided with a drape or cover for privacy during the scan.
- Avoid clothing with complicated zippers or layers that make it difficult to undress or redress quickly.
Our ultrasound screening services include both external and internal exams, so it’s helpful to know which one you’re scheduled for in advance.
Additional Tips to Keep in Mind
- Avoid lotions or oils on your belly before the scan. These can interfere with the gel used during external ultrasounds.
- Bring a change of clothes if you’re coming straight from work or a formal event.
- Wear minimal jewelry around the waist area to avoid needing to remove accessories during prep.
If you’re unsure about how to prepare for your specific appointment, TrueView provides step-by-step instructions on ultrasound preparation to help you arrive relaxed and ready.
Final Thoughts
What you wear to your maternity ultrasound may seem like a small detail, but it can have a real impact on your comfort, the speed of the session, and even the quality of the images you receive. The goal is to feel comfortable and confident while giving your sonographer easy access to capture the best possible view of your growing baby.
Choosing an outfit that’s both soft and easy to adjust ensures a more relaxed experience—especially during longer appointments like a 3D/4D imaging session.
If you have questions about your upcoming appointment or need additional information, contact our Roseville ultrasound team. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
