# How To Prepare for an MRI: Metal Screening, Clothing, Eating, and What To Expect Preparing for an MRI means removing metal, wearing the right clothing, and following food or medication instructions from your doctor. The scan itself is painless but requires staying very still inside the machine. Updated 2026-10-10. Also on the [web page](https://mriprices.fyi/guides/how-to-prepare-for-an-mri). # How To Prepare for an MRI: Metal Screening, Clothing, Eating, and What To Expect Preparing correctly for an MRI helps the scan go smoothly and reduces the chance of needing a repeat visit. While the exam itself is straightforward, there are several steps you can take beforehand that make a real difference. ## Metal screening The MRI magnet is always on. Any metal object brought into the scan room can become a dangerous projectile. Before you enter, you will be asked about: - Implants such as pacemakers, cochlear implants, insulin pumps, or metal surgical hardware - Internal metal from past injuries — shrapnel, bullet fragments, or metal shavings in the eye - Piercings, which must be removed or in some cases replaced with a non-metallic retainer - Dental work such as braces, retainers, or permanent bridges that contain metal - IUDs or contraceptive implants You will also remove all external metal: jewelry, watches, belts, coins, keys, phones, glasses, hairpins, and clothing with metal fasteners. The imaging center has lockers to store your belongings. If you have any internal metal that cannot be removed, tell the scheduling staff in advance. Some implants are MRI-safe; others are not. The technologist may need to see documentation from the device manufacturer. ## Clothing for the exam Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal hardware. Good choices include sweatpants, a t-shirt without snaps, or athletic wear. Avoid: - Jeans or pants with metal zippers or rivets - Bras with underwire - Clothing with snaps, grommets, or large buttons - Belts with metal buckles The facility will almost certainly offer you a gown and ask you to change regardless of what you wear. The gown ensures no metal is accidentally brought into the scan room. ## Eating, drinking, and medication This is one area where preparation varies most. For many MRI scans, there are no food restrictions. However, some types require specific preparation: - Abdominal or pelvis MRIs may require fasting for several hours beforehand - MRIs with contrast may recommend eating lightly to reduce the chance of nausea - MRIs of the bile ducts or pancreas may require avoiding certain foods for 24 hours Medication rules also vary by scan type and the reason for the exam. In general, take your regular medications unless the referring doctor tells you otherwise. If you have diabetes, for example, you should not skip meals or medication without specific instructions from your provider. Always confirm food and medication guidelines when you schedule the appointment. ## What to expect inside You will lie on a padded table that slides into the machine. The technologist positions you and may use cushions or straps to help you stay still. They leave the room but can see and hear you through a window and intercom. You can speak to them at any time. The machine makes loud knocking, humming, and beeping sounds during scanning. The facility provides earplugs or headphones, and some offer music to help you relax. You must stay completely still during each scan sequence, which lasts from a few minutes to about fifteen minutes per set. ## How long the appointment takes A typical MRI appointment lasts 30 to 90 minutes. The scan itself may be 20 to 60 minutes depending on the body part and whether contrast is used. Arrive early — at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time — to complete paperwork and change if needed. ## If you feel anxious If you are worried about the enclosed space or the noise, tell the scheduling team. They may offer: - A sedative, prescribed by your referring doctor — if you take one, arrange for someone to drive you home and do not drive yourself afterward - An open or wide-bore machine, if available - Extra time to get comfortable before the scan begins - A family member or friend to stay with you in the waiting area You can ask the technologist to pause the scan at any time. You are never stuck inside the machine — the table slides back out quickly if you need to stop. ## Questions ### Can I eat or drink before an MRI? It depends on the type of scan. Most standard MRIs do not require fasting. However, if your exam uses contrast dye or is focused on the abdomen, you may be asked to avoid food or drink for a few hours beforehand. Your doctor or the imaging center will tell you if special preparation is needed. ### What should I wear to an MRI? Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal — no zippers, snaps, underwire, or buttons. Athletic wear without hardware is often safe. In most cases, the facility will ask you to change into a gown regardless of what you wear. ### Why do I need to remove jewelry and piercings for an MRI? The MRI magnet is extremely powerful and will pull any metal object toward it with strong force. Metal can also distort the images, causing areas of the scan to become unreadable. All jewelry, watches, piercings, and hair accessories must be removed before entering the scan room.