Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)- How to Prepare

You will be given detailed instructions on how to prepare for your Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) study when you schedule your exam.

You will likely be instructed not to eat or drink after midnight on the night before your IVP exam. You may also be asked to take a mild laxative (in either pill or liquid form) the evening before the procedure.

You should inform your radiologist or technologist of any medications you are taking and if you have any allergies, especially to barium or iodinated contrast materials. You should also inform your radiologist or technologist of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions.

You may be asked to remove some or all of your clothes and to wear a gown during the IVP exam. You may also be asked to remove jewelry, removable dental appliances, eye glasses and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the x-ray images.

Women should always inform their radiologist or technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

Watch the X-ray - What to Expect Video.