Typically, you will be offered at least two scans during your pregnancy.
Standard Pregnancy Scans
The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK generally offers two routine ultrasound scans during pregnancy, as outlined below:
-
Dating or Booking Scan (Early Pregnancy Scan): This scan is usually performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. Its primary purpose is to:
- Confirm the pregnancy.
- Determine the gestational age of the fetus and estimate the due date.
- Check the number of babies (single, twins, etc.).
- Screen for certain chromosomal abnormalities like Down's syndrome (as part of the combined screening test).
-
Fetal Anomaly Scan (Mid-Pregnancy Scan): This scan is typically conducted between 18 and 21 weeks of pregnancy. The goal of this scan is to:
- Examine the baby's anatomy to check for any major physical abnormalities.
- Assess the position of the placenta.
- Check the baby's growth and development.
Additional Scans
In some cases, additional scans may be recommended based on individual circumstances, such as:
- Early scans for bleeding or pain: If you experience bleeding or pain in early pregnancy, you may be offered an early scan to check the viability of the pregnancy.
- Growth scans: If there are concerns about the baby's growth, additional scans may be performed in the third trimester to monitor the baby's size and well-being.
- Scans to check the baby's position: If the baby is in a breech position (feet or buttocks first) near the end of pregnancy, a scan may be done to confirm the position.
- Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, may warrant additional scans to monitor the pregnancy more closely.
In summary, while a minimum of two scans is standard, the exact number of scans can vary depending on individual needs and medical circumstances. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
