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Viability Scan (Early Pregnancy Scan)

Discovering you are pregnant is a moment filled with emotion, hope, and sometimes, anxiety. At our clinic at our Chelmsford Hospital in Essex, we understand that the early stages of pregnancy can be a delicate time, especially if you have concerns or a history of complications. Our Viability Scan is here to offer you reassurance and support when you need it most.

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What is a Viability Scan?

The Early Pregnancy Scan (EPS) also known as a Viability Scan Ultrasound is a scan used in the first trimester of a pregnancy to confirm a pregnancy’s viability and the unborn baby’s heartbeat.

You may be offered this scan if you had a positive pregnancy test, vaginal bleeding or spotting, or you are concerned due to previous pregnancy complications and risk of miscarriage. The EPS is the first Obstetric Ultrasound Scan available to women that can provide the much needed reassurance that the pregnancy is progressing normally, that it is intrauterine and not an ectopic.

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Why Choose a Viability Scan?

Reassurance in Uncertain Times: If you have experienced difficulties with previous pregnancies or have specific concerns, a Viability Scan can offer peace of mind by confirming the presence of a heartbeat and assessing the initial development of your pregnancy.

Expert-Led Care: Our scans are conducted by experienced consultant gynaecologists who specialise in early pregnancy care. They are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide the highest level of support.

Early Detection: The scan can detect potential issues early on, allowing for timely medical intervention if necessary. This proactive approach helps ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby

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We know that early pregnancy can be a time of mixed emotions, and our team is committed to offering compassionate care tailored to your needs. Whether this is your first pregnancy or you have experienced challenges before, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Booking Your Viability Scan

To book your Viability Scan, please call our Chelmsford team on 01245 801234 or alternatively please complete the enquiry form below.

Our friendly staff will assist you in scheduling an appointment at a time that is convenient for you. We are dedicated to providing timely and responsive care because we understand the importance of these early weeks.

We’re Here for You

At our clinic, your well-being is our priority. The Viability Scan is more than just an ultrasound; it is a chance for you to connect with expert care and receive the support you need during this crucial time. Let us help you navigate the early stages of pregnancy with confidence and peace of mind.

FAQs

When is the Early Scan performed?

An EPS is performed between 6-11 weeks of pregnancy.

What Will Early Pregnancy Scanning Show?

The main reason for this scan is to confirm pregnancy location, viability and date of the pregnancy.

The foetus changes rapidly from week to week in the early stages of pregnancy, so what you will see on the screen will depend on the gestation age.

Can I Have an Early Pregnancy Scan at 5 Weeks?

Yes, you can have a baby scan at 5 weeks but we do not recommend a scan before the 6 weeks gestation unless you are worried about a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy, as at 5 weeks the scan will more likely be inconclusive and follow up scan will be required in 7-14 days to confirm the pregnancy’s location and foetal viability.

Is 6 Weeks Too Early For Pregnancy Scanning?

Pregnancy in most cases can be confirmed on scan from as early as 6 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP).

What Can You See at a 6 Week Ultrasound?

At 6 weeks, you won’t, in general, be able to see much detail of your baby. The EPS, however, should be able to confirm the gestation age by measuring either the gestation sac or the foetal pole if visible. Sometimes, but not always, you will be able to see the baby’s heartbeat.

How long will the scan take?

The actual scan usually takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on the gestation age and viability. At this tender, early stage it is important to keep any exposure to the foetus at the minimum.

Is it Worth Getting an Early Pregnancy Scan?

The NHS believes that you only need two pregnancy scans during your pregnancy a 12 week and a 20-week scans. The early scan is however worth it if:

You have suffered from previous miscarriage or recurrent miscarriages,
You want to visually confirm your pregnancy and see your baby for the first time
You are concerned about the health of the baby or you just need that reassurance as it can feel that it is long wait until your 12 week scan
You are having fertility treatment and are required to monitor the progress.

Can an Early Pregnancy Scan harm me or my baby?

Ultrasound scans have been used in antenatal care for more than 30 years, and there are no known health risks for either the baby or the mother if they undergo an obstetric ultrasound scan during pregnancy. However, it’s always best to weigh up any potential benefits against the risk when deciding whether to go ahead with such scans.

Is an internal vaginal ultrasound necessary during a routine pregnancy ultrasound?

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