If you want to have an early ultrasound scan, we recommend scheduling it no earlier than 7 weeks into your pregnancy.
Early pregnancy can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, and the wait for that first NHS scan (typically offered at 11 to 14 weeks) can seem like an eternity when you’re eager for more information about your little one.
There are numerous reasons why expectant parents may be keen to book an early scan. For example, unexpected bleeding can cause concern for the mum-to-be, leading her to seek reassurance that all is well. And those undergoing IVF may also want to be informed on how their pregnancy is progressing in those early stages.
While technology has come on leaps and bounds in the last couple of decades—for example, the sensitivity of modern pregnancy tests means that conception can be confirmed very early on—there are still some limitations when it comes to early ultrasound scans. These limitations are due to the incredibly small size of the developing embryo (later the foetus) during the early stages of pregnancy.
As time progresses, more and more can be seen on an ultrasound scan—and more information gleaned from it.
For the first 5 weeks...
...ultrasound scans are not able to detect anything. At this very early stage, the embryo is simply too small to be seen.
Around weeks 6 and 7...
...some limited data becomes available as the embryo comes into view. This allows for the detection of ectopic pregnancies. However, the baby’s heartbeat and other vitals are still undetectable at this stage.
From week 7 onwards...
...a lot more information becomes available! At this stage, it’s possible to:
- Visually detect the heartbeat
- Measure your baby from head to bottom (this is known as the crown-to-rump length, or CRL)
- Check the yolk sac, which functions as the food source for the foetus until the placenta forms
- Observe your baby’s movement
- Verify how far along you are
- Determine whether you are pregnant with twins, triplets, etc.
- Give an initial estimated delivery date (EDD)
As you can see, the jump in information available to parents between 5 weeks and 7 weeks is enormous! This is why, if you’re seeking an early pregnancy scan, we strongly recommend waiting the extra couple of weeks to get the most out of your appointment.
First Encounters' EarlyReassure™ scan is available from just 7 weeks! Click the link below to see what this scan package includes, or contact the clinic for more information.
Book Your EarlyReassure™ Scan
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