Between 5 - 6 weeks of pregnancy, a gestation sac will normally be visible within the uterus. For couples who have had a previous ectopic pregnancy, an ultrasound scan at this stage would give reassurance that the embryo was not developing outside the womb.
At around 6 - 7 weeks of pregnancy, even though the embryo is only a few millimetres in length, the heartbeat is normally visible during the ultrasound scan process.
At this early stage of pregnancy, it is recommended that you have a trans-vaginal (internal) ultrasound scan as the images are far superior and the embryo can be visualised a week earlier than by the trans-abdominal (external) ultrasound scanning route.
A trans-vaginal ultrasound scan is a completely painless procedure which involves inserting a slim ultrasound transducer, covered with a protective sheath, into the vagina. You can insert it yourself, if you wish.
All ultrasound scans are performed by a female sonographer in a darkened, locked room and they take only a few minutes to perform.
If you have had a previous miscarriage, you may opt for a reassurance ultrasound scan at 8-9 weeks of pregnancy and at this gestation the scan can normally be performed trans-abdominally.The embryo will now be 15-25mm long and the heartbeat will be easily recognised. We will be able to:
Confirm the due date.
Diagnose a multiple pregnancy
Exclude a co-existing fibroid or ovarian cyst.
At every pregnancy scan, you will be offered images of your baby at no extra cost.
