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Ultrasound and gel sensory sensitivities.

Fibonacci Squid

At some point in the next few months, I am going to have to get an ultrasound to check out my abdomen because of some gastrointestinal stuff.

My biggest textural sensitivities are creams and jelly like stuff, they can send me into instant meltdown.

As far as I know, not using the gel is not an option because physics (I am happy to info dump about the physics if people want me to)

With that in mind, what strategies do people recommend that have worked for them for getting through necessary adverse sensory experiences.

Current ideas: have the technician explain what they are doing in excruciating detail (medical stuff is a special interest of mine), taking the best textured stuff I have to counteract the bad textured stuff, and have my parent with me to help out and advocate for me should I go non-verbal due to meltdown/shutdown. 

I would love to hear what things other people have found helps.

  • I've had several ultrasounds, mostly for gynaecological issues, and that gel really is horrible-feeling stuff! They do generally have stuff available in the room so you can clean up right away, though when I've gone it's always been tissues so you may want to bring wipes just in case.

    Since you're having an abdominal ultrasound they might want you to turn up with a full bladder (they did when I had mine), and they usually let you go to the loo as soon as you're done if that's the case. As it's a healthcare facility they'll most likely have those individual accessible cubicles where the sink is there as well, so you might be able to have a quick wash right away.

  • Yes, it is unpleasant, I also dislike oily, slippery sensations. I had ultrasound for testicular pain. I would say that the coldness was very unpleasant and having the gel pre-warmed, as has been commented on, would be a big improvement. I would recommend not looking at the procedure, as that takes away some of the sensory impact. Also take with you, or ask for, plenty of wet wipes, so that you can clean the gunk off as soon as it is over.

  • Yes unfortunately they won’t be able to see much, if anything, without using the gel to allow the ultrasound to pass through the tiny gap between the probe and your skin. Your ideas sound good, another possible option is asking the hospital in advance if they have a machine with an ultrasound gel warmer that they can use, or if they can put a bottle in a contrast warmer (looks like a little fridge but it’s kept close to body temperature). Might take the edge of the weird texture if the gel isn’t cold? Make sure you let them know when you receive the appointment that you have sensory issues with the gel they may have their own tried and tested strategies or be able to offer a different type of scan