We recognise that early pregnancy can be a worrying time and so we are happy to carry out scans to alleviate anxiety. We also perform “dating scans” to accurately date the pregnancy.

Bleeding and or pain are relatively common early in a pregnancy but understandably these symptoms are very worrying for any couple due to concerns about either miscarriage or more rarely ectopic pregnancy. In most situations, a reassurance scan provides the peace of mind needed to enjoy the pregnancy. Caring for women when there is a problem in early pregnancy does not stop with an ultrasound scan. In the unfortunate event that there are any problems, we can provide advice and direction including providing the support of a psychologist if needed.

For more information on our Early Pregnancy Scans, please click here.

Chromosomal abnormality, such as Down’s syndrome.The majority of babies are born normal. However all women have a risk of carrying a baby with a physical or mental handicap. One cause of this may be a chromosomal abnormality, such as Down’s syndrome.

The scan is performed between 11 weeks and 13 weeks and 6 days. An ultrasound transducer is placed on your abdomen and the procedure takes around 20 minutes. You should drink normally before the arriving but do not empty your bladder 30 minutes before the scan.

During the scan, several measurements are taken

• The crown rump length (CRL) from the top of baby’s head the bottom
  of the spine
• This will enable us to accurately calculate how pregnant you are and the estimated date of delivery
• The fetal heart rate
• The nuchal translucency measurement (NT). This is the fluid filled space behind the neck that is present in all fetuses.

The fetal anatomy will also be examined, as there are some physical abnormalities that can be diagnosed at this stage of pregnancy. We will examine the skull and brain, the nasal bone the arms, the legs, the stomach, the spine, the abdomen and the bladder.

A reassurance scan is usually performed at any stage after 14 weeks of pregnancy; the scan is ideal for women who have any concerns about their pregnancy. During this scan the baby’s abdomen, legs and head can be measured.

During this scan we measure the baby’s head, abdomen and legs. We also look at how the baby is moving, the amount of amniotic fluid, and where the placenta is.

A detailed examination is performed of the baby from top to toe to exclude any chromosome abnormality or structural defect.

We will examine in detail, the head and brain, face, spine, chest, abdomen, kidneys, arms, hands, legs and feet.

The baby will also be examined for any minor variations of normal anatomy that may be found in babies with a chromosomal abnormality. At the same time measurements will be taken to assess the baby’s growth and the position of the placenta.

The Sexing scan, also known as gender scans are usually performed at any stage after 16 weeks of pregnancy. The scan is very accurate, it is ideal for people wanting to know the sex of their baby.

The test involves taking a sample of maternal blood and is safe and non invasive with a high detection rate.

NIPT can be undertaken from 10 weeks of pregnancy alongside a dating scan to accurately confirm gestation and the result will be available after 14 days

It can also be used at any gestation throughout the pregnancy for instance if you have missed your 12/40 nuchal scan or have had a positive result and would like more information before deciding to go ahead with an invasive procedure.