When is My First Pregnancy Scan?

The initial ultrasound scan during pregnancy is an exciting moment for expectant parents. Also commonly referred to as an ‘early pregnancy scan’ or ‘viability scan’ these ultrasounds can be performed from as early as 6 weeks and serve multiple purposes. They are able to confirm the pregnancy is in the correct location, check the heart beat is present , and how many babies there are.

Purpose of the First Scan

The objectives of the initial scan are to:

• Confirm Viability – The scan shows the presence of baby’s heartbeat, which confirms a viable pregnancy.
• Estimate Gestational Age – Measurements are taken during the scan to work out how many weeks pregnant you are.
• Determine Multiple Pregnancies – If you are carrying more than 1 baby, this scan will identify the number.

What to Expect During the Scan

During the appointment a sonographer will do the ultrasound scan in a dimly lit room so that they can get clear images. Depending on how far along in the pregnancy you are, the scan may be performed across your abdomen, or possibly vaginally if very early ( 6-8 weeks). A special gel is applied to your abdomen to help pick up the transmission of sound waves. The sonographer moves the transducer device over your tummy, and transmitted images of your baby can be viewed on a screen. The procedure is painless and will last approximately 20 minutes.

How to Prepare

Scans across the abdomen normally require a full bladder as this as this enhances the clarity of the ultrasound images. However, the necessity of a full bladder depends on the type of scan, and the stage of pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will advise you or give you specific instructions.

The Surrey Park Clinic’s Pregnancy Scan Services

Here at The Surrey Park Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of pregnancy scans with highly experienced Sonographers. These are tailored to different stages of pregnancy. They include:

• Early Pregnancy Scan – Available from 6 weeks – 13 weeks and 6 days, this 30 minuteappointment will determine viability, date gestation age, and provide an approximate due date. The package includes a full report with measurements, and up to four pictures.
• Gender Scan – This scan can be performed from 16 weeks onwards and can reveal the baby’s gender. The session includes a full report and up to four pictures.
• Growth Scan – This ultrasound is carried out between 14 weeks and 35 weeks and 6 days and assesses the baby’s growth, fluid around the baby, estimates its weight (from 24 weeks onwards), and measures the umbilical cord Doppler (after 24 weeks). The appointment includes a full report and up to four pictures.
• 3D/4D & Wellbeing Scan – This scan is available from 26 to 32 weeks and provides detailed images of the baby, assesses amniotic fluid, and monitors foetal movements. The session includes a full report, up to four printed pictures, and images on a USB stick.

Booking and Appointments

The Surrey Park Clinic operates six days a week, and offers flexible appointment times, often with same-day availability. You can contact the clinic directly or book online through our website. For those planning to have multiple scans during pregnancy, discounted scan packages are available.

Who Can Come with You?

To minimise the number of people on site, the clinic requests that you bring only one other adult with you. Children are not permitted in the clinic, so childcare will need to be arranged accordingly.

Additional Considerations

Ultrasound scans are a valuable tool in monitoring pregnancy, so it’s important to understand that they may detect certain health conditions. It is a choice whether to have screening and your healthcare provider can discuss your options with you. If any concerns arise during a scan, the sonographer may refer you to a specialist for further investigation or evaluation.

The first scan is a huge milestone for expectant parents that provides essential information about your baby’s development and helps establish a timeline for your pregnancy. The Surrey Park Clinic ensures you receive personalised care and reassurance during this special time.