If you are pregnant in the UK, you have two options for your ultrasound scans: the National Health Service (NHS) or a private scan clinic.
Pregnant women are typically offered two scans on the NHS: one at 12 weeks, and another at 20 weeks. On top of this, however, many mums-to-be choose to have additional scans at a private ultrasound clinic like ours. So what do private scans offer that NHS scans don't?
Benefits of Private Scans
1) Shorter wait times
One of the most common complaints about the NHS is the long waiting times. Depending on your location and the urgency of your scan, you could be waiting anywhere between a few days and several weeks to get an ultrasound appointment, whereas private clinics tend to have far more availability and much shorter wait times.
2) Flexible hours
The NHS tend to be quite limited in the appointment times they can give out, with appointments usually only taking place during the daytime Monday to Friday. Private clinics, by contrast, are more flexible. Here at First Encounters, we offer evening and weekend scan slots, so you can find an appointment that suits you and your family without having to upend your usual schedule.
3) Better scan options
Although the NHS provides highly reliable scans, they will not provide early reassurance scans or non-essential 3D scans unless there is a clinical reason to do so. Private clinics, on the other hand, may offer early reassurance scans from as early as 7 weeks (alongside other tailored scans that focus on specific concerns or goals).
At First Encounters, we offer a comprehensive selection of ultrasound scans for expectant mums. That includes a 7-week reassurance scan and gender confirmation scans, as well as 3D and 4D imaging later in your pregnancy.
4) Higher quality equipment
NHS budget constraints mean that the health service may not always have access to the latest technology. Private clinics, however, tend to have access to more advanced technology with higher-resolution imaging.
All of the ultrasound scans we perform at First Encounters are carried out using top-quality ultrasound equipment. We are even able to offer 3D and 4D scans using our GE Voluson E6, with advanced HDLive technology that enables us to provide scans with an unparalleled level of detail and clarity.
5) More comfortable environment
Perhaps the biggest benefit of private clinics is that they are different to the rushed, clinical and often impersonal environment of a busy hospital. While the NHS must focus on medical details and keeping appointments short, private clinics can offer extended discussions and emotional support for expectant parents when they need it most.
At First Encounters, we provide a cosy and welcoming atmosphere with soft lighting that's designed to soothe and relax you. We also have a purpose-built private viewing room for any friends and family members who want to come along. We allow up to four guests to join the mother in the examination room, with up to five additional guests permitted in the viewing room, for a maximum of 9 guests total—something that you would never see in an NHS scan!
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For many expectant parents, a combination of both NHS and private ultrasound scans is what suits them best. While the NHS still provides an excellent service, if you are looking for reassurance and extra perks, a private scan may give you a more relaxing experience and greater peace of mind.
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