Pregnancy Development Ultrasound Scan

Our scans can provide a lot of information about your baby.

From 14 to 26 weeks size, movement and heart rate

From 26 weeks onwards we check weight, position and flow to the placenta

We will provide pictures in 2D, 3D and 4D (if possible)

Please be aware that after 30 weeks 3D/4D imaging presents more problems as there is less room in the uterus as the baby gets bigger

Sometimes it will not be possible to get good pictures

We can find out gender if you wish at this stage

Please note this scan is not replacing your NHS scans or a substitute for any NHS advice.

If you are concerned about anything with your own health or the pregnancy you must seek advice from you NHS maternity provider.

If this is of an urgent nature you should attend AE or urgent care

During an ultrasound scan

There are a few things that happen just before and during an ultrasound:

• the sonographer will ask you to lie on a couch, raise your top to your chest and lower your skirt or trousers to your hips
• the sonographer will squeeze some gel onto your abdomen (tummy) then gently pass a hand-held device across it
• the device sends and picks up ultrasound waves that allow a computer to build an image of your baby

The scan doesn’t hurt, but the gel might be a little cold at first. Sometimes the sonographer needs to press your tummy if some parts of your baby are difficult to see. The scan will take up to 30 minutes.

You should be able to recognise parts of your baby’s body on the screen – the sonographer will point them out to you.

If anything concerns the sonographer they will discuss this with you and if necessary refer you to you maternity care with your consent.

It is important to note that sometimes the scan may reveal bad news.