An ultrasound scan (sonogram) uses sound waves that bounce off solid objects to create images on a screen.
All our scans cans are carried out by fully trained healthcare professionals called sonographers with NHS Case accredited qualifications.
The scan procedure will be fully explained and only completed with your signed consent. You may withdraw consent at any time.
What your ultrasound scan can show
Your scan can show:
About this Scan
An Early Pregnancy Scan provides information in the very early stage of your pregnancy. A pregnancy can be seen from as early as 6 weeks from the first day of your last period (LMP) and not the date of conception. If you have had any bleeding or pain you must contact your local early pregnancy unit or A&E in the first instance.
Please note this scan is not replacing your NHS 12-week scan and does not include Nuchal Translucency testing.
Before an ultrasound scan
You’ll be asked to drink some water (about a pint/500 ml) an hour before the early pregnancy scan. Having water in your bladder will help the sonographer to see your baby more clearly.
During an ultrasound scan
There are a few things that happen just before and during an ultrasound:
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.
An ultrasound scan (sonogram) uses sound waves that bounce off solid objects to create images on a screen.
All our scans cans are carried out by fully trained healthcare professionals called sonographers with NHS Case accredited qualifications.
The scan procedure will be fully explained and only completed with your signed consent. You can withdraw consent at any time.
What your ultrasound scan can show
Your scan can show:
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 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.
