Ultrasound scans use sound waves to build a picture of the baby in the womb. The scans are painless, have no known side effects on mothers or babies, and can be carried out at any stage of pregnancy. Talk to your midwife, GP or obstetrician about any concerns you have.
Having a scan in pregnancy early stage is usually a happy event, but be aware that ultrasound scans may detect some serious health conditions, so try to be prepared for that information.
See What if a screening test finds something for more information on if a scan or other screening test suggests your baby may be more likely to have a condition.
What will happen at early pregnancy scan at private ultrasound scan?
Early pregnancy scan at private ultrasound scan is carried out by sonographers. The scan is carried out in a dimly lit room so the sonographer is able to get good images of your baby.
You will be asked to lie on your back and reveal your tummy.
The sonographer will put ultrasound gel on your tummy, which makes sure there is good contact between the machine and your skin.
The sonographer passes a probe over your tummy and a picture of the baby will appear on the ultrasound screen.
During the exam, sonographers need to keep the screen in a position that gives them a good view of the baby.
The sonographer will carefully examine your baby’s body. The sonographer may need to apply slight pressure on your tummy to get the best views of the baby.
How long will a scan take?
A scan usually takes around 5 to 15 minutes. However, the sonographer may not be able to get good views if your baby is lying in an awkward position or moving around a lot.
If it’s difficult to get a good image, the scan may take longer or have to be repeated at another time.
Can early pregnancy scan harm me or my baby?
There are no known risks to the baby or the mother from having an early pregnancy scan, but it’s important that you consider carefully whether to have the scan or not.
This is because the scan can provide information that may mean you have to make further important decisions. For example, you may be offered further tests, such as amniocentesis, that have a risk of miscarriage.
When will I get the early pregnancy scan’s results?
The sonographer will be able to tell you the results of the scan at the time.
Can I find out the sex of my baby at early pregnancy scan stage?
Finding out the sex of your baby is not offered as part of the national screening programme.
If you want to find out the sex of your baby, you can usually do so during the 20-week mid-pregnancy scan but this depends on the policy of your hospital. Tell the sonographer at the start of the scan that you’d like to know your baby’s sex.
Be aware, though, that it’s not possible for the sonographer to be 100% certain about your baby’s sex. For example, if your baby is lying in an awkward position, it may be difficult or impossible to tell.
Some hospitals have a policy of not telling patients the sex of their baby. Speak to your sonographer or midwife to find out more.