To acquire the best diagnostic images possible, the examination is routinely performed Transabdominally, followed by a Transvaginal ultrasound (always with your written consent first).

Both Transabdominal and Transvaginal scans are safe and are carried out with minimal discomfort. Transvaginal ultrasound is safe to perform during early pregnancy.

The early pregnancy scan typically involves two components: a scan across your lower abdomen with a full bladder (transabdominal scan) and an internal scan (transvaginal scan). The internal scan is a standard practice and does not harm the embryo in any way; it is used to obtain detailed information about early pregnancy. By approximately 8 weeks, the embryo can be readily seen via a transabdominal scan.

In most cases the examination will be performed transabdominally, but there are some situations where a Transvaginal ultrasound maybe necessary. This improves the assessment of the cervix, placenta and obtain better details of the fetus. In turn this can improve accuracy if the diagnosis.

Transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound examinations are safe at all stages of pregnancy.

For the best results, we recommend scheduling your appointment as early in your pregnancy as possible to ensure that the procedure can be performed during the optimal timeframe. Use our Pregnancy Scan Calculator to determine the most suitable dates for your scan.

Although a Nuchal Translucency scan or Early Anatomy Screening can be conducted between 12 to 14 weeks, we recommend scheduling this scan at 13 weeks. Our experienced sonographers have found that this specific timeframe allows for optimal visualization of your baby's development, including intricate structures such as the brain, heart, and kidneys. This small window of time can make a significant difference in the clarity and detail of the scan, providing valuable insights into your baby's well-being.

For a thorough assessment, it is important to combine ultrasound findings with maternal blood biochemistry. Please ensure to take your maternal serum screening blood test form to any pathology company at least 10 days before your ultrasound appointment. By doing so, we can access these results during your ultrasound. This should be completed from 10 weeks of your pregnancy.

The blood test evaluates Beta human chorionic gonadotropin (Free- BhCG) and pregnancy associated plasma protein- A (PAPP-A) levels. While it is ideally conducted at 10 weeks, it can also be performed just before or on the same day as the scan. In cases of fetus’ affected by chromosomal abnormalities, these hormone levels often display abnormalities.

While a normal ultrasound can provide reassurance, it's important to note that it does not guarantee a normal baby. Although it can detect most major structural abnormalities, the overall detection rate is only around 60%. Therefore, while ultrasound is a valuable tool, it may not identify all potential issues, and additional screenings and tests may be necessary for a comprehensive assessment of the baby's health.

The first trimester screening test involves two main components: a blood test, typically administered at 10 weeks into the pregnancy, and a nuchal translucency scan, usually conducted at 12-13 weeks. Following these tests, the results, along with maternal details, are entered into a computer program developed by the Fetal Medicine Foundation in London. This program then calculates the individual risk for chromosome abnormalities, categorizing it as either "low risk" (less than 1 in 300) or "high risk" (greater than 1 in 300).