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The early pregnancy scan is the first pregnancy scan that you can have and is not routinely available with the HSE. It is often done if you are not sure if you are pregnant or to provide reassurance in the very early stages of your pregnancy. It is can be reassuring for women who have suffered a previous miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

• Determine the presence of a pregnancy

• Check the fetal heartbeat from 6-11 weeks

• Check the viability of the pregnancy

• Diagnose a multiple pregnancy

• Calculate your estimated due date (EDD)

• Check the pregnancy is ongoing

• Investigate the cause of any bleeding or pain

• Investigate suspected ectopic pregnancy

• Rule out chromosomal or anatomical abnormalities

• Assess the final location of the placental as it is too early

Early Pregnancy Scans can be performed any time from 6 to 11 weeks of pregnancy. These dates are calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period. The scan is either performed transabdominally, by placing the scan probe on your tummy, or transvaginally, using a small probe covered by a sterile sheath that is inserted vaginally, so that the scan probe is closer to the womb. This can give a clearer picture for early pregnancies and helps to look for an ectopic pregnancy or signs of miscarriage. Neither type of scan involves any risk to the pregnancy.

The heartbeat of the embryo can be seen from 6 weeks onward, therefore, the Early Pregnancy Baby Scan can be performed from 6 weeks 0 days – 11 weeks 6 days from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). If your menstrual cycle is longer than 28 days it is advisable to wait until you are at least till 8 weeks from your LMP to confirm the viability of the embryo as you may not be as far as your dates suggest.

• For early reassurance, especially if you have suffered a miscarriage previously

• If you are unsure how far you are, this scan can help determine a due date

• If you have any bleeding or unusual pain during early pregnancy

• If you have a history of ectopic pregnancy

• If you have had fertility treatment, this scan can help reassure you

For a transabdominal scan, a full bladder is required to get good views. If we feel that a transvaginal scan is needed, we will ask you to then empty your bladder.

Your partner is welcome to be present for any of your scans and/or tests.

Our Dublin clinic is located at 3 Brewery Rd, Stillorgan, Dublin, A94 W8C3

Your doctor, GP or fertility specialist will receive a copy of your results within 24 hours of your appointment.