Early Pregnancy Scan

An Early Pregnancy Scan, also known as a Viability Scan or Dating Scan, is typically conducted between 6 to 12 weeks of pregnancy. This initial ultrasound is crucial for confirming your pregnancy, establishing an Estimated Due Date (EDD), and ensuring the viability of the pregnancy. It also allows for the detection of multiple pregnancies, such as twins or more.

While we recommend this scan for all pregnant women, it's especially beneficial for those over 35, as the risk of miscarriage can be higher with age. Additionally, this ultrasound scan is strongly advised for those with a history of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, as it provides early reassurance and helps monitor the pregnancy's progress.

An Early Pregnancy Scan can provide much-needed reassurance during the early stages of pregnancy. Here are several common reasons you might consider having this scan:

• Diagnostic Clarity:  An early scan can provide peace of mind by determining the cause of any pain, bleeding or spotting, if any
• Miscarriage and Ectopic Pregnancy Monitoring: For those with a history of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, an early scan offers reassurance, closely monitors the current pregnancy, and provides confidence in its progress.
• Accurate Gestational Dating: An early scan helps to accurately estimate date (EDD) the pregnancy, giving you a clearer and more confident timeline
• Professional Second Opinion: The scan provides peace of mind and the opportunity for a professional second opinion, enhancing your confidence in the pregnancy's progress

• Confirming Pregnancy: The scan confirms the presence of a heartbeat, reassuring soon-to-be parents about the pregnancy and its progress
• Determining Gestational Age: Early pregnancy scan helps measure the length of the embryo, along with assessing the yolk sac, gestational sac and providing an accurate estimate of the due date, helping you plan for the baby's arrival.
• Checking for Multiple Pregnancies: The scan detects if the mother has multiple pregnancies allowing time for appropriate planning and medical care
• Evaluating Uterine and Ovarian Health: The scan assesses the health of the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures that might affect the pregnancy

To prepare for a scan, follow these guidelines:

• Expect a brief medical history upon arrival
• Please bring along any relevant reports and findings with you
• The scan can be conducted either internally (transvaginal) or externally (abdominal), depending on the stage of pregnancy
• You may be asked to have a full or empty bladder based on the type of scan
• Wear loose and comfortable clothing for the ease of scan

For Internal Scan (Transvaginal Scan):

• The scan takes 20 minutes
• The Transvaginal Scan is carried out 06-10 weeks of pregnancy
• You will be asked to empty your bladder and escorted to a private area
• You will then be asked to undress from the waist down and cover yourself with a sheet
• The doctor or sonographer will prepare the probe as per clinic policy and gently insert it into the vagina to perform the scan

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For Tummy Scan (Transabdominal Scan):

• The scan takes around 15-30 minutes
• The Transabdominal Scan is carried out between 10-14 weeks of pregnancy
• The area of the tummy will be exposed, and a ultrasound gel will be applied
• An ultrasound probe will be placed on your abdomen for the scan
• The mother and the friends/family will be able to see real-time images of the baby on the monitor

Post  scan you will receive:

• A detailed scan report: A detailed report of findings would be shared for your records
• Three black and white ultrasound pictures: Visual records of early foetus, aiding in monitoring and documenting early developmental stages
• A short complimentary video clip of the ultrasound: Complimentary video clip of the scan with you on your registered email (coloured and extra prints available for a small charge)

Your well-being and your baby's health are our highest priorities. If any problem is identified during your scan, you will be informed by our in-house gynaecologist. With your permission, a necessary referral to a GP or hospital will be made.

No, this is not a dating scan and does not replace the NHS scan.

We take a non-refundable deposit of £25 upon booking. If you need to amend your booking, please call our team on 01753 358123, and we would be happy to assist you in changing your appointment.

We welcome family and friends to appointments, allowing up to four extra people (excluding yourself and your partner). However, please see our Coronavirus Preventative Measures on the main website for up-to-date information.

No, you do not need a referral for this scan.