When can I get a Cervical Length Scan?

You must be between 14 and 24 weeks of pregnancy to book a Cervical Length Scan.

What is a Cervical Length Scan?

A Cervical Length Scan is a pregnancy ultrasound scan that measures the length of your cervix to help assess your risk of early labour. The scan can also identify signs of cervical opening and provide additional reassurance during pregnancy.

When is a Cervical Length Scan recommended?

A Cervical Length Scan is often recommended if you have a history of premature birth, cervical damage from a previous birth, cervical treatment, multiple late miscarriages, twin pregnancy or other risk factors associated with early labour.

What is a cervical stitch?

A cervical stitch, also known as a cervical cerclage, is a procedure that may be recommended if your cervix begins opening too early during pregnancy. The stitch helps keep the cervix closed and may reduce the risk of preterm birth.

Is a Cervical Length Scan painful?

No. A Cervical Length Scan is generally not painful. The scan is performed using a gentle transvaginal ultrasound examination designed to provide clear images while remaining as comfortable as possible.

Do I need to prepare for a Cervical Length Scan?

Yes. It is recommended that you empty your bladder shortly before your appointment. You should also wear a two-piece outfit, take any medication as normal unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider, and relax knowing the scan is a routine procedure.

Can I request a female sonographer for my Cervical Length Scan?

Yes. If you would prefer a female sonographer, you should mention this when booking your appointment so the team can discuss availability.

Should I be worried about my first Cervical Length Scan?

No. There is usually no reason to worry. The scan is performed by an experienced sonographer who will explain the process and guide you through the examination.

What is included in a Cervical Length Scan?

The scan includes cervical length measurement, checks for cervical opening, baby wellbeing checks including movement and heartbeat, amniotic fluid assessment, confirmation of placenta location, baby position if appropriate, baby weight and measurements, a wellbeing checklist, a scan report, one printed image, all digital images emailed after the appointment, and the scan is performed by a qualified HCPC-registered sonographer.

What does the Cervical Length Scan check?

The scan measures the length of your cervix, checks for signs of cervical opening, assesses baby wellbeing, evaluates amniotic fluid levels, confirms placenta location and may assess baby position and growth depending on the stage of pregnancy.

What happens at the Cervical Length Scan appointment?

You will be welcomed by the reception team, asked to complete a consent form and provided with a copy of the clinic's terms and conditions. Additional information about your pregnancy may be collected so the sonographer fully understands the reason for your visit. You can relax before entering the scan room where the examination will be performed by an experienced sonographer. After the scan, you can choose any images you would like printed.

Who performs the Cervical Length Scan?

All Cervical Length Scans are performed by qualified HCPC-registered sonographers experienced in pregnancy ultrasound imaging.

Will I receive images and a report after the scan?

Yes. You will receive one printed image, all digital images by email, a wellbeing checklist and a scan report following your appointment.

Pregnant woman having a cervical length ultrasound scan during a prenatal appointment at Imaginatal clinic

Cervical Length Scan

A gentle internal ultrasound (14–24 weeks) to measure your cervix and check your risk of early labour.

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Sonographer performing a cervical length ultrasound scan during pregnancy at Imaginatal clinic

Is a Cervical Length Scan Right for Me?

A cervical length scan measures the length of your cervix to help assess your risk of early labour. For most of pregnancy, the cervix stays closed and only starts to open when your body is getting ready for birth.

What we check:

Cervical length (how long your cervix is)
Any signs of opening (dilation)
If you have a cervical stitch, we can check its position
Extra reassurance for those with previous early birth, cervical treatment, or twin pregnancy

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HD 4D baby ultrasound displayed on a clinic screen during a private pregnancy scan at Imaginatal

What’s Included In Your Cervical Length Scan?

Cervical length measurement
Baby wellbeing checks, including movement and heartbeat
Checks of amniotic fluid levels (fluid around baby)
Confirmation of placenta location
Baby’s position (if far enough along)
Baby weight and measurements
A wellbeing checklist to take away
A scan report
1 printed image
All digital images emailed free after your scan
Performed by a qualified, HCPC-registered sonographer

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Illustration of two purple baby footprints

How to prepare for your Scan.

Wear two piece outfit:
(you’ll undress from the waist down).

Empty your bladder:
Use the toilet just before your appointment.

Take medication as normal:
Unless your doctor/midwife says otherwise.

Relax:
It’s a gentle, routine internal scan, we’ll guide you throughout.

Comfortable waiting area inside Imaginatal pregnancy scanning clinic with baby gifts and family-friendly décor

What To Expect At Your Appointment

You’ll be welcomed by our friendly reception team.
You’ll complete a consent form and receive a copy of our Terms & Conditions.
We’ll ask a few quick questions about your pregnancy, so our sonographer understands the reason for your visit.
You can relax with your family before you’re called into the scan room.
Your scan will be carried out by one of our expert sonographers.
After the scan, you can choose any images you’d like us to print.

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FAQs

You must be between 14 and 24 weeks of pregnancy to book a Cervical Length scan.
A Cervical Length scan is a prenatal test that assesses the length of your cervix to determine if it is prepared for the birth of your baby. During most of your pregnancy, your cervix remains closed and will only begin to open when your body is ready for delivery.
A cervical stitch, also known as a cervical cerclage, is a procedure that can be performed if your Cervical Length scan shows your cervix is opening too early. The stitch helps stop the cervix from opening further and can be removed before your due date. This can help prevent preterm birth.
A Cervical Length scan is usually recommended if your waters have broken too early in the past, your cervix is damaged from a previous birth, or you have a history of three or more late miscarriages.
No, a Cervical Length scan is not painful. The scan is performed using a transvaginal ultrasound, which may sound intimidating but is designed to be painless.
Yes, it’s best to come with an empty bladder if possible. This will give us the best access to see whether you have a short cervix.
Yes, if you require a female sonographer, please speak with one of our advisors at the time of your booking as some of our sonographers are male.
- No, there’s no need to worry about your first Cervical Length scan. A professional will perform your measurement and guide you through the process.