Can You Wear a Bra During an Echocardiogram?

So you’ve been referred by your doctor or other health care provider to have an echocardiogram, or ultrasound of your heart. If you’ve had an echocardiogram done in the past, then you pretty much know what to expect.

But if this is your first time having an echocardiogram, then you’ve probably got a few questions. That’s ok. You’re not alone.

I’ve been performing echocardiograms for over 13 years and everyday I have patients come in to my exam room full of questions on what to expect from an echocardiogram. And one of the most common questions I hear from my female patients is whether or not they can wear a bra during the echocardiogram.

Read More: What To Expect Before and During Your Echocardiogram

Can You Wear a Bra During an Echocardiogram?

Unfortunatley, no. You cannot wear a bra during an echocardiogram.

The reason is because the only imaging windows that the ultrasound technologist can use to visualize your heart are right where your bra is. In addition, the sonographer will be attaching ekg electrodes onto your skin where the bra typically sits.

Instead, what you will be asked to do is remove all your clothing from the waist up. You’ll be given a patient gown that you can use to keep yourself covered during the exam. Depending on where you go to have your echocardiogram performed, you may be asked to open the gown in the front. I always prefer to have my patients wear their gowns with the openings, or ties, in the back. This provides the most privacy for patients.

It’s understandable that this can be an uncomfortable situation for some of you. But please know that the ultrasound tech will treat you with professionalism and respect. And if you wish to have another person in the room with you as a “chaperone”, all you need to do is ask.

If you are at any time uncomfortable during the echo procedure, it’s very important that you communicate that with the ultrasound tech.