An early pregnancy scan is usually performed shortly after discovering you are pregnant.

This scan typically occurs 6 to 10 weeks after conception and serves several important purposes:

1. Confirming the pregnancy.

2. Assessing early viability.

3. Establishing an accurate pregnancy date (often referred to as a viability or dating scan).

If you experience any pain or bleeding during early pregnancy, we strongly advise having an ultrasound to ensure all is well.

For those with a history of miscarriage, an early pregnancy ultrasound is also recommended.

Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with the confidence and reassurance you deserve during this crucial time in your pregnancy journey.

Early pregnancy scans are typically performed using two different methods:

1. Transabdominal Scan: In this approach, the ultrasound probe is placed over the abdomen. A full bladder is required to obtain a clear image.

2. Transvaginal Scan: In certain cases, especially during very early stages of pregnancy when visibility is limited through a transabdominal scan, a transvaginal scan may be recommended. This scan involves inserting a probe into the vagina to obtain a closer and clearer view of the pregnancy.

Both transabdominal and transvaginal scans are safe procedures. If you have any concerns or questions about the procedure or if you have a history of latex allergy, please inform the medical team. Your comfort and safety during the examination are of utmost importance.

Preparations for an Early Pregnancy Scan

1. Trans-Abdominal Scan: If you opt for a transabdominal scan, it's essential to have a full bladder for the procedure. You can achieve this by drinking 1 liter of water approximately an hour before your scheduled scan.

2. Transvaginal Scan: For a transvaginal scan, there is no need to have a full bladder. You can arrive for the scan without specific bladder preparation.

These preparations are designed to ensure the best possible results and your comfort during the early pregnancy scan.

1. Confirm a viable intrauterine pregnancy.

2. Determine early miscarriage.

3. Verify whether you are having one or more baby.

4. Verify the heartbeat, size, and development of your infant.

5. Rule out an ectopic pregnancy caused by a previous C-section scar; early pregnancy scan is recommended.

6. Clinical findings cannot rule out ectopic pregnancy on their own. When a patient in the first trimester of pregnancy experiences vaginal bleeding or stomach pain, bedside ultrasound is recommended.

1. Foetal viability scans are suitable for those in the early stages of their pregnancy – between six and ten weeks. Keep in mind this timeframe is calculated from the beginning of your last menstrual period (LMP) – not your last ovulation.

2. However, if you underwent IVF, your dates are calculated according to your egg transfer date.

3. If you have any questions about your eligibility for a foetal viability ultrasound, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is always available to ease your concerns.

The viability scan provides valuable information, including:

1. Confirmation of fetal viability: Our knowledgeable sonographer assesses this by detecting the presence of a heartbeat.

2. Determination of the pregnancy location, ruling out ectopic pregnancies.

3. Identification of the number of fetuses, whether it's a single baby, twins, etc.

4. Recognition of early miscarriage, if it has occurred.

5. Presence or absence of a subchorionic hematoma, which is a clot of old blood in the uterus.

While it's possible to hear your baby's heartbeat in early pregnancy through an ultrasound, it's best to avoid it for now. This is because it uses a stronger ultrasound wave, which can be risky during early development. It's safer to wait until later in your pregnancy. Our specialist sonographers will monitor your baby's heart rate during the scan and provide you with updates.

When you arrange your pregnancy scan, take comfort in the fact that ultrasound is secure for both you and your baby when conducted by a qualified and experienced sonographer. Unlike X-rays and other imaging technologies, ultrasounds utilize soundwaves without radiation to capture images of your baby and the interior of your body.

1. We will ensure that the pregnancy is in the correct location inside the uterus rather than ectopic (outside the uterus)

2. We will measure the size of a gestational sac or an embryo to confirm the age of the foetus and provide an estimated due date.

3. We will visualise the foetal heartbeat to assess its viability.

While viability scans are optional, they are suggested, especially in the following circumstances:

1. Uncertainty about your pregnancy dates or how far along you are

2. Light bleeding or spotting is occurring

3. Significant or unusual pain is being experienced

4. History of ectopic pregnancy or early miscarriage

5. Previous assisted fertility treatments, like IVF

6. Symptoms causing anxiety or concern

There is no particular type of care required after a Early Pregnancy Ultrasound. You may resume your regular diet and daily activities unless your doctor advises you differently.