Early pregnancy scans: when to book, what you'll see and what to expect
The first weeks of pregnancy can feel like a long wait. Your NHS dating scan usually happens between 10 and 14 weeks, and many parents want reassurance before then. An early pregnancy scan, also called an early reassurance scan, lets you see your baby sooner.
How early can I have a scan?
You can book an early pregnancy scan from 6 weeks, counted from the first day of your last period.
Before then, the pregnancy may be too small to see clearly. That can cause worry when there is nothing wrong; it's simply too early. If your dates are uncertain, it's often better to wait an extra week.
Will it be an internal scan?
We always try a scan through your tummy first. Very early in pregnancy, baby is sometimes too small to see clearly that way, and your sonographer may offer an internal (transvaginal) scan instead. This is entirely your choice. If you'd rather not, just say so, and we'll book you a free re-scan in 2 weeks, when baby will be easier to see.
What will I see?
| Weeks | What you can usually see |
|---|---|
| 6–7 | The pregnancy sac and a tiny embryo. The heartbeat is sometimes visible. |
| 8–9 | A clearer baby shape with a visible heartbeat. You can hear it on some machines. |
| 10–12 | Baby looks more like a baby: head, body and limb buds, often moving. |
Your sonographer will also measure your baby to estimate how many weeks pregnant you are, and check how many babies there are. Twins are usually picked up at this stage.
What happens on the day?
- Before: drink some water an hour or so beforehand; a moderately full bladder helps with early scans.
- During: the scan takes about 15–20 minutes. Your sonographer explains what they can see as they go, and you can bring up to 8 guests.
- After: you get printed scan pictures, and all your scan pictures and your report are emailed to you.
An early pregnancy scan (our Early AssureScan) at Imaginatal costs £104.
Is an early scan safe?
Ultrasound has been used in pregnancy for decades, and diagnostic ultrasound performed by trained sonographers is considered safe. Our scans follow professional guidance on scan time and settings.
When you should NOT wait for a private scan
An early scan is for reassurance. It doesn't replace urgent care. If you have heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided tummy pain, shoulder-tip pain, or feel faint, contact your GP, your local Early Pregnancy Unit or NHS 111 straight away, or call 999 in an emergency.
Does a private scan replace my NHS scans?
No. Please still attend your NHS dating scan and 20-week anomaly scan. A private early scan is an extra, and we're happy for you to share your report with your midwife.
Book at a clinic near you
Early pregnancy scans are available at all our clinics: Bristol, Cardiff, Gloucester, Leicester, Liverpool, Oxford, Romford and Whitechapel (East London).
This article is general information and isn't a substitute for advice from your midwife or doctor.
