Early pregnancy scan
Ultrasound scan in early (6 – 10 weeks) pregnancy
The aim of this scan is to confirm the viability, determine the number of fetuses present and if the pregnancy is developing normally inside the uterus. Because of the deep position of the uterus in the maternal pelvis before the 8th week the scan must be carried out with an empty maternal bladder using a vaginal probe. From the 9th week it is usually possible, with a full maternal bladder, to perform the scan abdominally. The examination is not painful nor is it dangerous and does not increases the risk of miscarriage or harm to the fetus or mother.
In early pregnancy we will examine for you:
- Location of the pregnancy in the uterus, or mislocated elsewhere
- Number of fetuses
- Fetal heartbeat
- Gestational age and expected due date
- From 8th week on development of fetal extremities and brain
The examination with counselling takes around 10 minutes and you are welcome to bring your partner or someone close to accompany you. You will obtain one printed photograph of your baby and a detailed report with results will be sent to you by email within a week.