What to Expect During Your First MRI Scan

Most people's only worry about an MRI is the machine itself — a tunnel, a loud noise, claustrophobia. Let's walk through what actually happens at our Baddi center, so your first scan feels routine, not frightening.

Before the scan: the metal check

This is the most important part. The MRI magnet is extremely strong, so we ask about anything metal inside or on your body — pacemakers, cochlear implants, aneurysm clips, stents, artificial joints, shrapnel or metal fragments. Most modern implants are MRI-safe, but we verify rather than assume. You'll remove jewellery, watches, belts, keys, phones, wallets (magnetic strips) and any clothing with metal zips or hooks — or change into our gown.

Tell us if you work with metal or had any eye injury with metal fragments. And yes — tell us if you think you might be pregnant; we discuss it with your doctor.

What fasting is needed?

For most MRI scans, none — eat and drink normally, take your medicines. Specific studies (like MRCP for the bile ducts) need 4–6 hours fasting; we confirm your exact instructions when you book.

Inside the scan room

You lie on the padded table, often with a pillow under your knees. We position the body part being scanned, the table glides in, and the machine does the rest. The scanner is open at both ends, and you can talk to us through an intercom at any time.

The machine makes knocking and humming sounds of varying rhythm — that's the imaging sequence working, not a fault. You get ear protection, and at our center you can usually listen to music during the scan. Many patients actually doze off.

How long? A typical scan is 20–45 minutes depending on the body part. The key instruction: stay still — movement blurs images like a shaky photo. Breathe normally; we'll tell you when to hold your breath (common in abdominal scans).

Feeling anxious or claustrophobic?

You're not alone — it's the most common concern. Options that genuinely help:

• Ask us to show you the machine and room before the scan starts.
• Music — pick something calming; we'll play it during the scan.
• Close your eyes before entering the tunnel and keep them closed — it halves the sense of enclosure.
• Bring a family member to wait with you; some centers allow a companion in the room for parts of the scan.
• For severe anxiety, your doctor can prescribe a mild relaxant — arrange this in advance, and bring someone to drive you home.

With contrast

Some scans use contrast injected through a small IV to highlight certain tissues. Tell us about kidney disease or allergies beforehand. The injection feels cool for a few seconds — normal. Drink extra water after to flush it out.

After the scan

Unless you were sedated, you can eat, drive and return to normal life immediately. Reports are usually ready the same day, and we share digital copies on WhatsApp on request. Your doctor receives a copy and will discuss the findings with you — remember, the MRI shows images; your doctor interprets them in the context of your symptoms.

Medically reviewed on August 8, 2026.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Your doctor decides which test you need. Read our full medical disclaimer.