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Private early pregnancy ultrasound scan in London clinic

Early Pregnancy Scan

Pregnancy is between 06 to 11 weeks

Same Day & Weekend Appointments

Book today, get scanned today

Instant Scan Results

Report & images before you leave

Expert Care

HCPC Consultant Sonographers 

Price

£85

Offpeak

£75

Book Now

Week 4

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is a tiny ball of cells, around 1 to 2mm across – about the size of a poppy seed – and it has just settled into the lining of your womb.

Some cells will become your baby, while others start forming the placenta, which will carry oxygen and nutrients to your baby for the rest of your pregnancy.

Pregnancy Week 4 Size

Week 5

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is now about 2mm long, roughly the size of a sesame seed.

The neural tube, which becomes the brain and spinal cord, is forming, and the cells that will make up the heart are starting to come together.

Pregnancy Week 5 Size

Week 6

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is around 4 to 6mm long – about the size of a lentil.

A tiny heart is beginning to beat, and on an ultrasound scan this can often be seen as a gentle flicker. Small buds that will become arms and legs are appearing.

Pregnancy Week 6 Size

Week 7

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 1cm long, roughly the size of a blueberry.

The arm and leg buds are growing, the brain is developing quickly, and the beginnings of the eyes and ears are taking shape.

Pregnancy Week 7 Size

Week 8

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 1.6cm long – around the size of a raspberry.

Fingers and toes are starting to form, and your baby is making small movements, although it will be many weeks before you can feel them.

Pregnancy Week 8 Size

Week 9

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 2.3cm long, roughly the size of a grape.

The face is becoming more defined, with the eyelids and the tip of the nose forming. The heart now has its four chambers.

Pregnancy Week 9 Size

Week 10

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 3cm long – around the size of a strawberry.

The major organs are in place and will keep growing and maturing. From the end of this week your baby is known as a fetus.

Pregnancy Week 10 Size

Week 11

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 4cm long, roughly the size of a fig.

The bones are beginning to harden, the fingers and toes have separated, and your baby can open and close their hands.

Pregnancy Week 11 Size

Week 12

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 5.5cm long – around the size of a lime.

Your baby is fully formed and now needs to grow. The kidneys have started working, and on a scan you may see your baby stretching, kicking or hiccuping.

Pregnancy Week 12 Size

Week 13

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 7.5cm long, roughly the size of a lemon.

Tiny vocal cords are forming and the intestines are moving into place inside the tummy. Your baby’s fingerprints are also developing.

Pregnancy Week 13 Size

Week 14

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 8.5cm long – around the size of a peach.

Your baby can make facial expressions such as squinting and frowning, and a fine layer of hair called lanugo is starting to cover their skin.

Pregnancy Week 14 Size

Week 15

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 10cm long, roughly the size of an apple.

The skeleton continues to harden, and your baby can sense light through their closed eyelids. Their legs are now longer than their arms.

Pregnancy Week 15 Size

Week 16

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 11.5cm long – around the size of an avocado – and weighs roughly 100g.

The muscles in the face and back are getting stronger, and your baby’s movements are becoming more coordinated.

Pregnancy Week 16 Size

Week 17

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 13cm long, roughly the size of a pear.

A layer of fat is starting to form under the skin to help keep your baby warm after birth, and the umbilical cord is growing thicker and stronger.

Pregnancy Week 17 Size

Week 18

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 14cm long – around the size of a sweet potato.

Your baby can now hear sounds, including your heartbeat. You may begin to feel the first flutters of movement, especially if this isn’t your first pregnancy.

Pregnancy Week 18 Size

Week 19

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 15cm long from head to bottom, roughly the size of a mango.

A creamy coating called vernix is forming on the skin to protect it from the fluid around your baby.

Pregnancy Week 19 Size

Week 20

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 25cm long from head to heel – around the length of a banana – and weighs roughly 300g.

You are halfway through your pregnancy. Your baby is swallowing fluid, which helps the digestive system develop.

Pregnancy Week 20 Size

Week 21

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 27cm long, roughly the length of a large carrot.

Your baby’s movements are stronger now, and you may notice regular times of day when they are more active.

Pregnancy Week 21 Size

Week 22

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 28cm long and weighs roughly 430g – around the size of a papaya.

Eyebrows and eyelashes are growing, and the lips and features are more distinct, which is why 4D scans from this stage can show your baby’s face in detail.

Pregnancy Week 22 Size

Week 23

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 29cm long and weighs around 500g – roughly the size of a grapefruit.

The lungs are developing the tiny air sacs they will need for breathing, and your baby may respond to loud noises.

Pregnancy Week 23 Size

Week 24

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 30cm long and weighs around 600g – roughly the length of an ear of corn.

The inner ear is developed, so your baby may sense when you move or change position.

Pregnancy Week 24 Size

Week 25

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 34cm long and weighs around 660g – roughly the size of a cauliflower.

Your baby is gaining fat, and their skin is becoming smoother and less see-through.

Pregnancy Week 25 Size

Week 26

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 35cm long and weighs around 760g – roughly the size of a lettuce.

Your baby’s eyes are starting to open, and they are practising breathing movements.

Pregnancy Week 26 Size

Week 27

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 36cm long and weighs around 875g – roughly the size of a head of broccoli.

This is the start of your third trimester. Your baby has regular periods of sleep and wakefulness.

Pregnancy Week 27 Size

Week 28

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 37cm long and weighs around 1kg – roughly the size of an aubergine.

Your baby can blink, and their brain is growing rapidly.

Pregnancy Week 28 Size

Week 29

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 38cm long and weighs around 1.15kg – roughly the size of a butternut squash.

The muscles and lungs keep maturing, and your baby’s kicks and stretches may be stronger and easier to see from the outside.

Pregnancy Week 29 Size

Week 30

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 40cm long and weighs around 1.3kg – roughly the size of a cabbage.

The fine lanugo hair is starting to disappear, and your baby is building up fat stores.

Pregnancy Week 30 Size

Week 31

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 41cm long and weighs around 1.5kg – roughly the size of a coconut.

Your baby can turn their head from side to side, and all five senses are working.

Pregnancy Week 31 Size

Week 32

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 42cm long and weighs around 1.7kg – roughly the size of a squash.

Most babies are now lying head down, although there is still time for your baby to turn.

Pregnancy Week 32 Size

Week 33

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 44cm long and weighs around 1.9kg – roughly the size of a pineapple.

The bones are hardening, apart from the skull, which stays soft and flexible to make birth easier.

Pregnancy Week 33 Size

Week 34

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 45cm long and weighs around 2.1kg – roughly the size of a melon.

The central nervous system and lungs are maturing, getting ready for life outside the womb.

Pregnancy Week 34 Size

Week 35

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 46cm long and weighs around 2.4kg – roughly the size of a honeydew melon.

There is less room to move now, so you may feel more rolls and wriggles and fewer big kicks. Keep noting your baby’s usual pattern of movements.

Pregnancy Week 35 Size

Week 36

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 47cm long and weighs around 2.6kg – roughly the size of a large papaya.

Your baby may start to move down into your pelvis, ready for birth.

Pregnancy Week 36 Size

Week 37

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 49cm long and weighs around 2.9kg – roughly the size of a winter melon.

Your baby’s organs are ready to work on their own, and they are still putting on weight each day.

Pregnancy Week 37 Size

Week 38

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 50cm long and weighs around 3.1kg – roughly the size of a pumpkin.

Your baby is practising sucking and grasping, skills they will use as soon as they are born.

Pregnancy Week 38 Size

Week 39

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 51cm long and weighs around 3.3kg – roughly the size of a small watermelon.

Your baby is fully developed and could arrive at any time.

Pregnancy Week 39 Size

Week 40

What does my baby look like?

Your baby is about 51cm long and weighs around 3.5kg on average – roughly the size of a watermelon.

This is your due date week, although only a small number of babies arrive on the day itself. Your midwife will talk to you about what happens if your baby hasn’t arrived by 41 weeks.

Pregnancy Week 40 Size
As you are %weeks% pregnant, this %kind% is available to book %when%. Scroll down to read more about the Early Pregnancy Scan and how it can help you find out more about your pregnancy.

What does the Early Pregnancy Scan check?

Progress of the pregnancy

Viability - If visible, see baby's heartbeat

Pregnancy dates

Single or multiple pregnancy

How far along your are in the pregnancy

Early reassurance

Location of pregnancy, if visible

Bleeding or Spotting

What's included

ultrasound-probe-icon
Ultrasound Scan
2 Scan images
TSC Folder

About the Early Pregnancy Scan

Finding out you are pregnant is one of life’s most memorable moments. While those first few weeks bring immense excitement, waiting until your routine NHS 12-week scan can feel like a lifetime away.

Our early pregnancy scan (also known as a 6-week scan, first pregnancy scan, or fetal viability scan) provides essential peace of mind during your first trimester. Available from 6 weeks onward, this private assessment gives you vital clinical insights into your baby’s development when you need them most.

Fetal Viability & Heartbeat Check

Confirm gestational sac positioning, evaluate early embryo development, and—where dates allow—see your baby’s beating heart for the very first time.

Gestational Age & Progress Tracking

Gain accurate measurements to establish how many weeks pregnant you are, evaluate progress, and estimate your due date with confidence.

Symptom Check & Reassurance

If you are experiencing light spotting, unusual pelvic discomfort, or have a history of pregnancy loss, an early scan provides clarity and peace of mind.

Whether you are visiting for routine early reassurance or investigating early symptoms, our sonographers at The Scan Clinic ensure you feel fully relaxed, supported, and informed throughout your appointment.

Objective of the scan

Our early pregnancy scan aims to assess if visible:

  • location and viability of early pregnancy from 6 to 11 weeks using ultrasound.
  • single or multiple pregnancies.
  • provide early indications of your pregnancy dates and, if possible, the estimated due date (EDD).
  • provide early scan measurements.
  • 2 complimentary B&W pictures of your baby included.
  • Heartbeat bears, additional pictures, movie clips, and more are also available to purchase on the day!

This scan requires you to have had either a positive urine pregnancy test or a positive pregnancy blood test.

Why choose us for your Early Pregnancy Scan

Same-day &
weekend slots

Trusted for over
15 years

Same-day verbal
summary

Award-winning
and regulated

What brought you here?

Pick the closest match. We'll show what the scan looks for and what usually happens next.

What the scan looks for

Whether the pregnancy sac is inside the womb, the yolk sac and fetal pole, heart activity if present, and early measurements.

What happens next

We talk you through the scan findings before you leave and provide a written report for to share with your GP or midwife.

What the scan looks for

Heart activity, sac and embryo size against your dates, and whether there is a single pregnancy or more than one.

What happens next

A verbal summary on the day with 2 scan pictures and a written report with any measurements. If it is simply too early, we recommend another scan in one to two weeks.

What the scan looks for

Location of the pregnancy, heart activity, free fluid in the pelvis, ovarian cysts and tenderness on either side.

What happens next

Findings are explained on the day. If something needs urgent assessment we tell you clearly and refer you to your early pregnancy unit or A&E.

What the scan looks for

Number of sacs and where each one sits, heart activity, and measurements compared with your transfer or insemination date.

What happens next

A verbal summary before you leave and a written report with any measurements, which we can send to your fertility clinic on request.

What the scan looks for

Crown rump length or sac measurements for early dating, plus pregnancy location and heart activity.

What happens next

We give early dates and, where possible, an estimated due date on the day, with 2 images and the written report with any measurements for your midwife.

Please note: Between 6 and 11 weeks a heartbeat may be too early to see and a very early pregnancy may not yet be visible at all, so a repeat scan a week or two later is sometimes the only way to be certain; this scan cannot assess your baby's anatomy or sex.

What we check

What your sonographer looks at during the Early Pregnancy Scan.

Progress of the pregnancy

Viability - If visible, see baby's heartbeat

Pregnancy dates

Single or multiple pregnancy

How far along your are in the pregnancy

Early reassurance

Location of pregnancy, if visible

Bleeding or Spotting

How to prepare

Arriving with the right preparation is important as failure to do so may result in us not being able to perform the scan.

Full bladder

  • A full bladder is required for this scan – Please drink 0.5 litres of fluid approximately 30 minutes or so before your scheduled appointment and kindly try your best not to empty your bladder before the examination.
  • You may maintain your normal medication regime.
  • You can eat as normal.

Internal (transvaginal) scan

  • An internal scan is often recommended at the start of the appointment instead of the scan over your tummy, as it often provides greater detail and better information.

Read the important notes

Full Bladder*

Internal Scan*

More about the Early Pregnancy Scan

Your First Early Scan at The Scan Clinic

Our early pregnancy scan gives you the reassurance you need in those first few weeks or pregnancy. It’s a gentle way to check that everything is progressing as it should be and to see your baby for the very first time.

At our London clinic, you’ll be welcomed into a calm and friendly environment, equipped with the latest high-quality ultrasound technology. You’ll be able to watch your scan live on our large HD screens and share that unforgettable moment with your partner or a loved one.

Expert Care

HCPC Registered Consultant Sonographers

  • NHS Backgrounds: Scans conducted by senior clinical specialists with extensive NHS experience.
  • High-Definition Tech: Live TV monitor viewing for you and your partner.
  • Supportive Environment: Dedicated care, full explanation of findings, and direct referral pathways to NHS Early Pregnancy Units (EPU) if follow-up care is ever required.

early pregnancy 6 week fetus viability scan pregnancy ultrasound 6 week private scan

What Happens At Your Early Pregnancy Scan

Gestational Age & Due Date

Find out exactly how far along you are in your pregnancy and establish your estimated due date with accurate ultrasound measurements.

Single Baby or Twins Confirmation

Determine whether you are expecting one baby or twins, while checking that early development is progressing safely within the womb.

Reassurance & Complete Peace of Mind

Our aim is to give you clear information about your baby’s wellbeing during those critical early weeks of your pregnancy journey.

Full NHS Support Pathways

If you need any follow-up or additional care, we work closely with local NHS Early Pregnancy Units (EPU) to ensure you are fully supported every step of the way.

ultrasound practitioner sonographer medical professional performing ultrasound on early pregnant patient

Viability Scan

Our viability scan, also known as an early pregnancy scan, helps confirm how your pregnancy is progressing during those crucial initial weeks. The primary aim of this examination is to detect a healthy fetal heartbeat—a vital milestone that provides immediate reassurance that your pregnancy is developing safely inside the womb.

We perform viability scans from as early as 6 weeks of pregnancy. At this early stage, ultrasound imaging allows us to evaluate key markers, including:

  • The gestational sac (pregnancy sac)

  • The yolk sac (which nourishes the early embryo)

  • The fetal pole (the tiny developing baby, which often resembles a small bean or tadpole on screen)

Many expectant parents choose an early viability scan for peace of mind, particularly if they have experienced unusual symptoms like mild cramping or spotting, have a history of pregnancy loss, or simply want early confirmation before their routine 12-week scan.

Common Reasons for an Early Baby Pregnancy Scan

An early pregnancy scan provides vital answers and peace of mind during the first few weeks of pregnancy. Whether you are seeking early confirmation or experiencing concerning symptoms, our team ensures you feel supported, comfortable, and well-cared for throughout your visit.

Why Book an Early Scan?

  • Reassurance & Confirmation: Confirm a healthy intrauterine pregnancy and detect an early heartbeat with our specialized early pregnancy scan.

  • Symptom Evaluation: Investigate the cause of light vaginal spotting, bleeding, or unusual pelvic pain alongside a comprehensive private pelvic scan.

  • Accurate Dating: Determine your precise gestational age and establish an estimated due date.

  • Early Peace of Mind: Reduce anxiety during the early weeks, backed by official NHS Early Pregnancy Care guidance if further NHS pathways are required.

At The Scan Clinic London, our experienced specialists provide a compassionate, pressure-free environment to answer your questions and guide you through your results immediately.

Next Steps & Support:

Early Baby Pregnancy Scan London

Pregnancy can be the most exciting journey. But it can also be packed with anxiety and worry. Private ultrasounds are one of the ways healthcare providers and mothers-to-be keep tabs on their unborn children and monitor their development.

During the pregnancy window, your doctor might prescribe several ultrasounds. The most important among them is the early pregnancy scan. Depending on the scan results, it plays various roles and sets the stage for your prenatal care.

Why Get an Early Pregnancy Scan

An early pregnancy scan (weeks 6–11) provides vital clinical reassurance and accurate gestational dating without requiring a GP referral.

What You Can Expect to See by Gestational Week

Gestational WindowWhat the Scan RevealsRecommended Add-Ons
Weeks 6 – 7Confirms gestational sac, yolk sac, and early fetal pole. The heartbeat can often be seen as a faint flicker.Combine with SneakPeek Gender Test or HCG Blood Test
Weeks 8 – 9Clearer visual definition of embryo size, gestational age measurements, and a distinct, steady heartbeat.Routine early reassurance check
Weeks 10 – 11The baby begins to exhibit early movements! Major structural boundaries form with high-precision dating prior to your NHS scan.Combine with Private Dating Scan or NIPT Screening

🩸 Reaching 10 Weeks? Consider Advanced NIPT Screening

From 10 weeks of pregnancy, you are eligible for simple, non-invasive genetic screening. Our Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) analyzes cell-free fetal DNA from a simple blood sample to screen for Down’s, Edwards’, and Patau’s syndromes with over 99% accuracy—plus early gender determination if desired.

👉 Explore NIPT Blood Tests → (Can be conveniently added during your scan booking.)

Benefits of Getting an Early Pregnancy Scan

While many early pregnancy scans are performed for medical reassurance, taking an early look at your baby offers numerous physical and emotional benefits:

  • 🩺 Peace of Mind & Early Detection: It is completely normal to have concerns during early pregnancy. A scan provides instant reassurance by confirming a healthy intrauterine pregnancy and detecting an early heartbeat. Early assessment also allows clinicians to address any potential concerns promptly—learn more about what to expect in our guide on early pregnancy scan milestones.

  • 👶 See Your Baby for the First Time: Nine months is a long time to wait. An early scan lets you see your developing baby for the first time, hear their heartbeat, and take home your very first souvenir scan photos and digital memories to start building a connection.

  • 📅 Accurate Dating & Better Planning: Knowing your exact gestational age helps you establish an accurate due date. Whether confirming a single pregnancy or discovering you are expecting twins, getting early clarity gives you maximum time to prepare your home, nursery, and birth plan.

  • 🛡️ No GP Referral Required: You can access swift, direct care without long NHS waiting lists. Review our transparent pricing and package options to book an appointment at a time that works for you.

Have questions about when to schedule your appointment? Read our helpful breakdown on when to book an early pregnancy scan or contact our friendly clinic team today.

Pregnancy Milestones

What You Can Expect to See by Gestational Week

  • Weeks 6 – 7: Confirms the presence of the gestational sac, yolk sac, and early fetal pole. The heartbeat can often be seen as a faint flicker. (Can also be combined with our early SneakPeek Early Gender Test or HCG Blood Test).

  • Weeks 8 – 9: Clearer visual definition of embryo size, gestational age measurements (Crown-Rump Length / CRL), and a distinct, steady heartbeat.

  • Weeks 10 – 11: The baby begins to exhibit early movements. Major structural boundaries form, and dating becomes increasingly precise prior to your NHS 12-week scan (or our private Dating Scan).

🩸 Reaching 10 Weeks? Consider Advanced NIPT Screening

Once you reach 10 weeks of pregnancy, you become eligible for simple, non-invasive genetic screening. Our Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) analyzes cell-free fetal DNA from a routine maternal blood sample to screen for Down’s, Edwards’, and Patau’s syndromes with over 99% accuracy—plus early gender determination if desired.

👉 Explore NIPT Blood Tests → (Can be conveniently combined with your early scan appointment.)

What patients say

Rated excellent (4.9) on Google.

Same-day & weekend slots
Trusted for over 15 years
Same-day verbal summary
Award-winning and regulated
MMohammed Khidr4 days ago
Really nice experience, amazing and informative staff. Much better experience than with hospitals.
The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. The instructions were clear, Mr Usman performed my ultrasound scan. He was very reassuring, took this time, was very thorough with the assessment. He took this time in answering any questions or concerns we had. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience, I will definitely recommend coming to the clinic!!
Aali yasir5 days ago
I Had a great experience everything went smooth, everything was straightforward and had a great and time , went in for a gender scan and came out happy.
JJessica Cooper5 days ago
Amazing experience, very cosy very nice atmosphere! Lovely staff !!
AAli Ali2 weeks ago
Staff was very friendly and polite, made my wife feel so comfortable and relaxed.
Zzinka emilova2 weeks ago
I’m so happy from this clinic. The staff is great and the doctor is very good I recommend the The Scan Clinic
GGrace Bolenge2 weeks ago
Highly recommend this clinc, managed to get an appointment quickly. All my questions were answered throughly and I feel more confident walking out. Thanks again!
TTim Le Rougetel2 weeks ago
Very smooth service from start to finish
小小人物3 weeks ago
Service was amazing. All of the staffs were very professional and helpful to answer all our questions. The opposite of the location has a parking area, and then only 1 minutes walking distance from the parking area. Easy to get there.
AAakansha Satyam3 weeks ago
Had a very good experience, whole team is very caring. :)
TTeri Halford3 weeks ago
Went to the clinic for my first scan as I couldn’t wait to see the baby. The first thing we noticed was the cleanliness of the clinic and how calm the atmosphere was. A shame we couldn’t take a personal video of the scan as would’ve been nice to have for a memory of us being there. But the ladies were lovely and would love to come back for another scan at some point. Thank you
MManisha Sagwal3 weeks ago
Excellent experience Very nice staff
RRaducan Daniel1 month ago
The best clinc in london
I reccomend !
LLamar Kalam1 month ago
Had a pleasant experience, staff were really kind and professional. Gave the reassurance we needed
Amazing and kind people, they tried three times because our baby was in a disadvantageous position for the 4D scan, even allowed us to go for a walk to get it to move.
AAmina Qureshi1 month ago
Had a pleasant experience, staff were really kind and professional. Gave the reassurance we needed
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Common Questions

How much is an early pregnancy scan in London?

Private early pregnancy scans in London can vary significantly and cost as much as £200 or more. However, The Scan Clinc’s private early pregnancy scan costs from £75.

How early can you have an early pregnancy scan?

You can safely have an early pregnancy scan as early as 6 weeks, and in certain instances even earlier. At the 6 week stage, the scan can show the embryo, its positioning, the number of embryos and whether they share the same amniotic fluid. Small electrical pulses of the heartbeat can also be detected.

What if my scan shows there’s something wrong, or I receive bad news?

We understand that this is never easy news to hear, and our caring team will always approach the situation with sensitivity and compassion. Our experienced sonographers have supported many patients through similar circumstances and will take the time to explain everything clearly and gently.

If there are any concerns, we’ll provide you with a detailed medical report and guidance on what to do next. We’ll also advise you on the most appropriate next steps and, if needed, refer you to your GP or local NHS early pregnancy unit for ongoing care and support.

Are your sonographers qualified?

Absolutely. All of our sonographers are highly experienced, fully qualified, and based in London. Many of our team have worked in NHS roles, and some have even been featured on television for their expertise.

We believe that a great scan isn’t just about having the latest ultrasound equipment — it’s also about the skill and care of the person performing it. Our sonographers are trained to interpret the images quickly and accurately, while making your experience as comfortable and reassuring as possible. Every member of our team has completed the relevant professional training and holds full certification, so you can feel confident that you’re in safe hands.

Is an early pregnancy scan safe for adults and babies?

Ultrasound scans aren’t known to have any negative side effects on the mother-to-be or the unborn child. Unlike X-rays, they don’t produce any radiation and are largely safe. However, a qualified and certified sonographer should only perform the scan for the best results. The scan can help confirm the pregnancy and its viability, among other vital details that healthcare providers need to provide comprehensive prenatal care.

Can you see a heartbeat at an early pregnancy scan?

Yes, a baby’s heartbeat can typically be detected on an ultrasound from 6 weeks of pregnancy onwards. If you attend a scan slightly earlier than 6 weeks, or if your ovulation dates differ, it may still be too early to visualize fetal heart activity. In these cases, our specialists will recommend scheduling a follow-up dating & reassurance scan 1 to 2 weeks later.

Will my early pregnancy scan be an internal or external abdominal scan?

At 6 to 8 weeks, an internal (transvaginal) scan is often recommended because it provides much clearer, high-definition images of the tiny developing pregnancy sac and fetal pole. However, depending on your gestation and body shape, an abdominal (over-the-tummy) scan may be performed first with a full bladder. Both methods are safe, gentle, and performed with your consent by our registered specialists. Learn more about our clinical safety standards on The Scan Clinic about us page.

Do I need a full bladder for an early pregnancy scan?

If you are having an abdominal scan, yes—we recommend drinking approximately 0.5 litres of clear still water 30 to 45 minutes before your appointment and avoiding using the bathroom. A full bladder acts as a window to lift the uterus into clear view. If an internal scan is required, your sonographer will ask you to empty your bladder right before the examination. Review our full scan preparation guide before attending.

Can an early pregnancy scan detect an ectopic pregnancy?

Yes. One of the primary medical purposes of an early pregnancy scan is to confirm that the pregnancy sac is safely implanted inside the womb (intrauterine) rather than in the fallopian tubes, helping to rule out an ectopic pregnancy. If an ectopic pregnancy is suspected, our team provides urgent clinical advice in accordance with official NHS Ectopic Pregnancy Care guidelines.

Can an early scan tell if I am expecting twins or multiples?

Yes. As early as 6 weeks, an ultrasound scan can accurately identify whether you are carrying a single embryo or multiple gestations (such as twins or triplets) by viewing the number of gestational sacs and fetal poles inside the uterus.

What happens if a heartbeat is not seen at my 6-week scan?

If a heartbeat isn’t visible, it often simply means your ovulation occurred later than expected and you are earlier in your pregnancy than calculated by your last menstrual period (LMP). Our sonographer will measure the gestational sac, provide clear guidance, and help you book a follow-up scan. If you are experiencing unexpected pelvic discomfort alongside this, you can also explore our general private pelvic ultrasound scan service.

Can you determine the gender of the baby during an early pregnancy scan?

No, an early pregnancy scan (between 6 and 11 weeks) cannot determine the sex of your baby because genital development is not far enough along to be visualized on an ultrasound. For accurate gender determination, you can book our specialist private gender scan from 14 to 16 weeks onwards, or check our full list of services and ultrasound scan prices.

Book your Early Pregnancy Scan

Same-day and weekend appointments at The Scan Clinic London East in Gants Hill, with your report and images before you leave.

Book onlineCall Me
Standard price£85
Off-peak price£75

Off-peak discount is applied automatically at checkout. Scan report and images included.

How to find us

Address

The Scan Clinic London East
635A Cranbrook Road
Gants Hill IG2 6SX

View map

Call us

0203 904 7706
Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm

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Important notes

  • Important: Please bring your pregnancy book / maternity notes with previous scan results (if you have had your first NHS scan) to your appointment, as we will not be able to scan you without them.
  • Accessibility: Our London East clinic is located on the first floor, up one flight of stairs. Please note that we don’t have a lift available at this location.
  • Special Requirements: If you have any specific requirements or preferences for your appointment, including a preference for a male or female practitioner, accessibility needs, or other adjustments, please contact our Customer Care Team before your appointment so we can do our best to accommodate your request if possible. 
  • All scans are performed to accomplish the main objective only.
  • This scan is not a screening test for fetal abnormalities.
  • Our pregnancy scans do not replace or substitute any scan you have or will have with the NHS / maternity care provider.
  • All of our first-line tests are optional and provided on a self-referral basis. You must be aged 16 years or over to use this service. If you have an existing medical condition, are undergoing treatment, or have any concerns about whether this test is appropriate for you, we recommend that you consult your GP or healthcare professional before booking.
  • Twin / multiple pregnancies incur an additional charge of £45 (12 weeks onwards).
  • For scans with gender assessment included  (16 weeks onwards), any information regarding the sex of the baby is not guaranteed & ultrasound alone is not 100% accurate as some babies can be ambiguous. Your practitioner will only provide you with information about the gender if they feel confident to do so from the ultrasound scan. The Scan Clinic or its staff can not be in any way held responsible upon the reliance of such information.
  • Filming is not permitted (allowed) in the scan room, if you wish to have a video or recording of the scan this can be purchased – please discuss with the customer care member.
  • We kindly ask that you inform us of any specific requirements, reasonable adjustments, cultural considerations, or practitioner preferences before your appointment. Whilst we will make every reasonable effort to accommodate requests, this may not always be possible at short notice or subject to staff availability.

This scan requires you to have had a positive urine pregnancy test or pregnancy blood test.

If you are in a lot of pain or experiencing heavy bleeding, we recommend arranging an appointment with your local hospital.

Early Pregnancy Scans: What Can You Expect?

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6 Weeks Pregnant Ultrasound All You Need to Know

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More about the Early Pregnancy Scan

Learn more about pregnancy scans, your baby's development and ultrasound in general in our Health Hub.

Go to Health Hub
Mr. Mohammad Usman - Clinical Lead and Consultant Sonographer

Medically reviewed by

Mr. Mohammad Usman

Clinical Lead and Consultant Sonographer

Home Visit Blood Test

We can carry out a blood test at your home for certain areas in London. Please either call us or complete the details below and we will arrange this.

Fact Check Information

The Scan Clinic is committed to providing accurate and objective educational content about health and medical related topics. We know that there is a lot of misinformation out there, and we take our responsibility to be a trustworthy source of information seriously. Every article on our site is thoroughly fact-checked by our team of writers.

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