The early pregnancy scan is performed to confirm that the pregnancy is located within the uterus and to assess early development. It allows confirmation of viability where appropriate, identification of the number of babies, and assessment of early pregnancy structures. This scan provides reassurance in early pregnancy and helps guide ongoing care.

An early pregnancy scan may be considered by anyone seeking reassurance following a positive pregnancy test. It is particularly helpful for women who have experienced bleeding or pain, have had a previous miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, have conceived following fertility treatment, or are uncertain about their pregnancy dates.

The most appropriate time to book an early pregnancy scan depends on how far along the pregnancy is and what information you are hoping to obtain.

• At 5–6 weeks of pregnancy, the scan may show a small gestational sac within the uterus and, in many cases, a yolk sac. At this stage, it is often too early to reliably see a fetal heartbeat, and this can be entirely normal.
• From around 6½–7 weeks onwards, a fetal pole is usually visible and a heartbeat can typically be detected.
• Between 7 and 10 weeks, the scan provides more definitive reassurance. A heartbeat should be clearly seen, early development can be assessed, and the number of babies can be confirmed.

For most women seeking reassurance and a clear outcome from a single visit, booking the scan from 7 weeks of pregnancy onwards is ideal. If the scan is performed earlier, a follow-up scan may sometimes be recommended.

The scan is usually performed initially through the abdomen. In very early pregnancy, or if views are limited, an internal (transvaginal) scan may be recommended to obtain clearer images. This is a safe and commonly used technique and will only be performed with your understanding and consent.

A moderately full bladder can help improve visualisation during the abdominal part of the scan. You do not need to be uncomfortably full, and you may be asked to empty your bladder during the appointment if required.

If a heartbeat is not seen, the findings are interpreted carefully in the context of how far along the pregnancy is and the scan appearances.

• Very early in pregnancy (before 7 weeks), it is common not to see a heartbeat, and this does not necessarily indicate a problem.
• If the pregnancy appears earlier than expected, or the findings are inconclusive, a repeat scan is usually recommended after 7–14 days to allow time for further development.
• If the scan findings meet established medical criteria for a non-viable pregnancy, this will be discussed with you sensitively and clearly.

Throughout this process, you will be fully supported, with clear explanations of the findings, what they mean, and the next steps. Where appropriate, we will also advise on follow-up care and liaise with NHS early pregnancy services to ensure continuity and safety.

If your dates are uncertain or your cycles are irregular, this is taken into account when interpreting the scan findings. In early pregnancy, development does not always match the date of the last menstrual period, and this can be entirely normal.

If the pregnancy appears earlier than expected, this does not necessarily indicate a problem. Where appropriate, a follow-up scan may be recommended after a suitable interval to allow clearer assessment and provide reassurance.

Assessment of the risk of chromosomal conditions is not performed at the early pregnancy scan. This is undertaken later in pregnancy at the 11–13 week nuchal scan. Where appropriate, non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) can be offered from 10 weeks of pregnancy onwards.

Yes. If you are at least 10 weeks pregnant, NIPT can be performed at the same appointment. Testing earlier than this may increase the likelihood of an inconclusive result. Testing for fetal sex may be possible earlier.