An early pregnancy scan is a crucial part of prenatal care, typically conducted between 6 and 12 weeks of gestation. It provides key information about the pregnancy’s progress, confirms its location, and detects early signs of the baby’s development. For many parents, it is also a reassuring opportunity to see their baby for the first time.
Whether you’re undergoing the scan through the NHS or at a private clinic, knowing what to expect can make the experience more comfortable and less stressful.
Why is an Early Pregnancy Scan Done?
The early stages of pregnancy are filled with excitement and uncertainty. An early pregnancy scan is done to provide clarity and ensure the health of both the mother and baby.
Primary Purposes of an Early Pregnancy Scan
- Confirm the Pregnancy
- Verifies that you are pregnant and that the pregnancy is located in the uterus (not ectopic).
- Check for a Heartbeat
- Detects the baby’s heartbeat, which is typically visible from 6–7 weeks onward.
- Estimate the Gestational Age
- Provides an estimated due date (EDD) by measuring the size of the baby (crown-rump length).
- Identify Multiple Pregnancies
- Determines if you’re expecting twins, triplets, or more.
- Evaluate Pregnancy Health
- Assesses the uterus, gestational sac, yolk sac, and other structures for abnormalities, such as miscarriage risks or molar pregnancies.
Types of Early Pregnancy Scans
- Transabdominal Scan
- Performed by moving an ultrasound probe over your abdomen.
- Provides a broader overview of the uterus and surrounding structures.
- Transvaginal Scan
- Involves inserting a thin ultrasound probe into the vagina.
- Offers clearer and more detailed images, especially useful during the very early stages of pregnancy (before 8 weeks).
How to Prepare for an Early Pregnancy Scan
For a Transabdominal Scan
- Drink Water: Drink 1–2 glasses of water an hour before your appointment to fill your bladder. A full bladder helps push the uterus into a better position for imaging.
- Wear Comfortable Clothes: Choose loose, two-piece outfits that allow easy access to your lower abdomen.
For a Transvaginal Scan
- Empty Your Bladder: You may be asked to empty your bladder for better comfort and imaging.
- Expect Privacy: A gown will usually be provided, or you can wear a skirt or loose clothing to make undressing easier.
What Happens During an Early Pregnancy Scan?
1. Pre-Scan Consultation
- The sonographer will greet you and explain the procedure.
- You may be asked about the date of your last menstrual period (LMP) to estimate how far along you are.
- Symptoms like cramping, spotting, or nausea will also be discussed.
2. Performing the Scan
Transabdominal Scan
- A gel is applied to your lower abdomen to help the ultrasound probe transmit sound waves.
- The sonographer moves the handheld probe across your belly to capture images of the uterus and pregnancy.
Transvaginal Scan
- A thin, lubricated ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the vagina.
- This method provides a closer and clearer view of the uterus, especially if the pregnancy is less than 8 weeks along.
3. Real-Time Imaging
- The ultrasound monitor will display live images.
- You may see:
- Gestational Sac: The first sign of pregnancy, typically visible from 4–5 weeks.
- Yolk Sac: A structure that nourishes the embryo, visible by 5–6 weeks.
- Fetal Pole and Heartbeat: The developing baby and its flickering heartbeat, detectable from 6–7 weeks.
4. Measurements and Observations
- The sonographer will measure the crown-rump length (CRL) of the embryo to determine gestational age.
- Other features, such as the amniotic sac, yolk sac, and uterine lining, will be assessed for signs of a healthy pregnancy.
5. Discussion of Results
- The sonographer will explain the findings and confirm the estimated due date.
- If concerns arise, such as an ectopic pregnancy, missed miscarriage, or other complications, they will discuss next steps, such as follow-up scans or additional tests.
What Might the Scan Reveal?
- Healthy Pregnancy: A normal gestational sac, yolk sac, and fetal pole with a visible heartbeat confirm a healthy pregnancy.
- Multiple Pregnancies: Identifies twins, triplets, or more, and whether they share a placenta.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Ensures the pregnancy is located in the uterus and not in the fallopian tubes.
- Miscarriage: Detects signs of a miscarriage, such as the absence of a fetal heartbeat or an empty gestational sac.
- Uncertain Results: If the pregnancy is very early, a follow-up scan may be scheduled in 1–2 weeks to confirm viability.
How Long Does the Scan Take?
The scan usually lasts 15–30 minutes, depending on the imaging method and the clarity of the results.
What to Bring to the Scan
- Appointment Letter: If required by your clinic.
- Partner or Support Person: Most clinics allow one person to accompany you.
- Previous Medical Records: Any prior scan results or relevant medical history.
- Notebook: To jot down key findings and next steps.
FAQs About Early Pregnancy Scans
1. Is an early pregnancy scan safe?
Yes, ultrasound scans use sound waves, not radiation, and are completely safe for both mother and baby.
2. Can I hear the baby’s heartbeat?
At this stage, the heartbeat is usually visible as a flicker on the monitor but may not yet be audible.
3. What if no heartbeat is detected?
If it’s too early, a follow-up scan will likely be scheduled in 1–2 weeks to confirm viability.
4. Will I get a picture of the scan?
Most clinics provide printed or digital images of the scan, though policies vary.
5. Do I need a referral for an early pregnancy scan?
NHS scans usually require a referral, but private clinics often allow self-referral.
6. What if the scan reveals a problem?
The sonographer will explain the findings and refer you to a specialist or your GP for further care, as needed.
7. Can I have both NHS and private scans?
Yes, many parents use NHS scans for medical purposes and opt for private scans for additional reassurance or bonding.
8. How early can I have a scan?
The earliest scans are typically done around 6 weeks, when the gestational sac and yolk sac become visible.
9. Is a transvaginal scan uncomfortable?
Most people find it only mildly uncomfortable, and it is generally well-tolerated.
10. Are private early scans worth it?
Private scans offer flexibility, additional reassurance, and often more detailed imaging, making them a good choice for parents seeking extra support.
Conclusion
An early pregnancy scan is an exciting and informative step in your pregnancy journey. It offers reassurance, detects key developmental milestones, and identifies potential issues early. Whether you’re attending the scan through the NHS or at a private clinic, understanding the process and what to expect can make the experience smoother and more rewarding.
