Early Pregnancy Scan at a Private Clinic

Early Pregnancy Scan at a Private Clinic: When to Book and What to Expect

The first few weeks of pregnancy can feel surprisingly long.

You may have had a positive pregnancy test, but your first routine NHS scan can still feel some way off. For some parents, having an early pregnancy scan provides an opportunity to see how the pregnancy is progressing and to ask questions in a calm, private setting.

At Future Baby, we offer private early pregnancy scans from 6 weeks at our clinics in Reading, Leicester and Peterborough.

If you're considering booking an early scan, here's what you can expect.

What is an early pregnancy scan?

An early pregnancy scan is an ultrasound carried out during the first few weeks of pregnancy.

At Future Baby, our Viability & Reassurance Scan is available from 6 weeks and is designed to assess the pregnancy at this early stage.

Depending on how far along you are and what can be seen on the day, the sonographer may be able to check:

the location of the pregnancy
whether it is a single or multiple pregnancy
fetal cardiac activity
early measurements and development

It is worth remembering that every pregnancy develops differently. If you are very early in pregnancy, there may simply not be enough to see clearly yet.

This doesn't necessarily mean that something is wrong. Your dates may be slightly different from what you expected, particularly if your cycle is irregular or you are unsure when you ovulated.

When can I have a private early pregnancy scan?

At Future Baby, early pregnancy scans are available from 6 weeks.

However, what can be seen on ultrasound changes considerably during these first few weeks.

At around six weeks, everything is still very small. As the pregnancy progresses through seven, eight weeks and beyond, there is generally more for the sonographer to see and measure.

If you aren't sure how many weeks pregnant you are, pregnancy is usually dated from the first day of your last menstrual period. You can also speak to our team before booking if you're unsure which scan is most appropriate for you.

What happens during an early pregnancy scan?

It's completely normal to feel a little nervous before an early scan, particularly if this is your first pregnancy or you've had a difficult experience previously.

When you arrive at Future Baby, you'll check in at reception and complete a consent form before meeting your sonographer.

The scan will usually begin as an abdominal ultrasound. You'll be asked to lie comfortably while ultrasound gel is applied to your abdomen and the sonographer moves the ultrasound probe gently across your tummy.

Because everything is so small during early pregnancy, an abdominal scan doesn't always provide a clear enough view.

In these circumstances, an internal (transvaginal) scan may be offered where appropriate. Your sonographer will explain this to you first and an internal scan will only be carried out with your consent.

Will I see a heartbeat at 6 weeks?

Fetal cardiac activity can sometimes be seen from around six weeks, but it isn't possible to guarantee what will be visible at a particular appointment.

Even a difference of a few days can make a significant difference at this stage of pregnancy.

If the scan appears earlier than expected or there isn't enough information to reach the expected findings, your sonographer will explain what has been seen and what the appropriate next step may be.

We believe it's important to be clear about this before your appointment. An early scan should be a professional assessment of what can be seen on the day, rather than a promise of a particular result.

Can my partner or family come with me?

Yes.

For many parents, seeing their baby on screen for the first time is a moment they want to share.

At Future Baby, you can bring up to four guests, including your partner, family members, friends or children.

Our clinics are designed to provide a comfortable, welcoming environment where you can experience the scan together.

If you would rather attend on your own, that's absolutely fine too.

Who carries out the scan?

Your ultrasound scan will be carried out by an experienced, qualified sonographer.

Future Baby's sonographers are trained professionals, and our clinics are CQC regulated.

This is an important consideration when choosing a private pregnancy scanning clinic. An ultrasound isn't simply about producing a picture; the person carrying out the examination needs the appropriate training and experience to perform the scan safely and explain the findings clearly.

What will I receive after my scan?

Following your early pregnancy scan, you'll have an opportunity to discuss what has been seen with your sonographer and ask any questions you may have.

Our Viability & Reassurance Scan includes a scan report, with images and your report sent by email.

If anything requires further medical assessment, your sonographer will explain the appropriate next steps.

Does a private pregnancy scan replace my NHS scans?

No.

Private pregnancy scans should complement your routine NHS maternity care, not replace it.

You should continue to attend all NHS antenatal appointments, screening and scans offered to you during your pregnancy.

Similarly, a reassurance scan should not be used instead of seeking medical advice when you have concerning symptoms.

If you are experiencing bleeding, severe abdominal pain or other urgent pregnancy symptoms, contact your GP, midwife, NHS 111 or your local hospital as appropriate rather than waiting for a private reassurance appointment.

Is ultrasound safe during pregnancy?

Ultrasound has been used in pregnancy care for many years. NHS guidance states that ultrasound scans use sound waves to create an image and have no known side effects for mothers or babies.

Professional guidance also emphasises that pregnancy ultrasound should be performed by appropriately trained professionals and that exposure should be kept to what is necessary for the examination.

This is another reason why choosing an established, professionally run clinic matters.

Choosing a private early pregnancy scan clinic

There are now many options available when searching for a private pregnancy scan, so it is worth looking beyond price alone.

Before booking, consider who will actually carry out your scan, whether the clinic is appropriately regulated, what the appointment includes and what happens if the sonographer identifies something that needs further assessment.

You should also feel comfortable asking questions before you book.

At Future Baby, our aim is to make your visit professional and informative while still recognising that an early pregnancy scan can be a very personal experience.

Early pregnancy scans at Future Baby

Future Baby provides private pregnancy ultrasound services at clinics in Reading, Leicester and Peterborough.

Our Viability & Reassurance Scan is available from 6 weeks and includes an early pregnancy assessment carried out by an experienced sonographer, followed by a scan report and images.

You're welcome to bring up to four guests with you, so your partner or family can share the experience if you wish.

Ready to book your early pregnancy scan?

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Frequently Asked Questions

How early can I have a private pregnancy scan?

Future Baby offers early pregnancy scans from 6 weeks. What can be seen will depend on your gestation and how the pregnancy is developing at the time of your appointment.

Can you see a heartbeat at 6 weeks?

Fetal cardiac activity can sometimes be seen from around six weeks, although it cannot be guaranteed at a particular appointment. If your dates are slightly earlier than expected, it may simply be too soon to see clearly.

Can I bring my partner to an early pregnancy scan?

Yes. Future Baby allows up to four guests at your appointment, including partners, family members, friends and children.

Will the scan be abdominal or internal?

The scan will usually begin abdominally. In early pregnancy, an internal scan may sometimes be offered if a clearer view is needed. This will be explained beforehand and will only be performed with your consent.

Will I receive a report?

Yes. Future Baby's Viability & Reassurance Scan includes a scan report, with the report and images provided by email.

Do I still need my NHS pregnancy scans if I have a private scan?

Yes. A private scan complements rather than replaces NHS maternity care. You should continue to attend your routine NHS appointments, screening and ultrasound scans throughout your pregnancy.