Stomach ultrasound for a vomiting baby (pyloric stenosis)
pyloric ultrasound · pyloric stenosis ultrasound · ultrasound for projectile vomiting · baby stomach ultrasound
This ultrasound shows the outlet of your baby's stomach: whether it is too narrow and whether milk passes through.
Usually for babies in the first weeks of life, when they throw up hard, in a forceful stream, after every feeding.
⏱ Duration: usually 10 to 20 minutes; the result is given right away
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Feeding. Sometimes you are asked not to feed your baby for 2 to 3 hours. Sometimes the baby is given a drink during the scan. Check with the clinic.
- For your baby. Bring a bottle, or be ready to breastfeed, if the doctor asks.
What to bring
- A blanket and a diaper
- A bottle of breast milk or formula
- Wipes
- Your baby's documents
How it goes
- Your baby is laid on their back on the exam table, and you stay close
- The doctor puts warm gel on the tummy
- The probe is used to look at the stomach and its outlet
- Sometimes the baby is given a drink to see how the milk passes
- The gel is wiped off, and you are told the result
What you'll feel
- It does not hurt your baby
- The baby may cry from being held or from hunger. That is normal
Afterwards
- You are told the result right away
- If the outlet is narrow, your baby will be referred to a surgeon. It can be treated
- Write down feedings and vomiting until you see the doctor
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Yellow or green vomit: see a doctor right away
- The baby is floppy, pees little, or has dry lips: call emergency services
- Vomiting after every feeding and the baby is losing weight
Common questions
How do I tell normal spit-up from a dangerous one?
Normal spit-up is small, the baby is calm and gaining weight. Forceful vomiting after every feeding and weight loss mean you should see a doctor urgently.
If narrowing is found, what happens next?
Usually a small operation is planned. A surgeon makes the decision.