Consultant gynaecology · Central London EC1
Early Pregnancy Scan in London
A reassurance scan from around six weeks, performed and interpreted by a consultant gynaecologist, with the findings explained before you leave.
Most early pregnancy scans are booked for one reason: you want to know everything is where it should be. The scan confirms location, checks for a heartbeat where the dates allow, and dates the pregnancy.
Consultant-led · Results in the same visit · £300
What to expect
What an early scan can and cannot tell you
Location
Confirming the pregnancy is inside the uterus. This is the single most important early finding.
Heartbeat
Usually visible from around six weeks. Before that, a scan can be too early to be conclusive rather than a cause for alarm.
Dating
Measurement to estimate gestational age, which is often more accurate than dates from your last period.
Number
Whether there is one pregnancy or more, and where each sits.
Transvaginal, usually
In early pregnancy an internal scan gives a far clearer view than an abdominal one. It is safe in pregnancy and no more uncomfortable than a smear.
If something is unclear
Sometimes the honest answer is that it is too early to say, and a repeat scan in seven to ten days is the right next step rather than a guess.
Fees
Published fees
Gynaecology Consultation
Full consultant consultation
£200
Consultation + Pelvic Ultrasound
Same-day scan and results
£300
Complete Well Woman Check
Consultation, ultrasound and cervical screening
£380
Common questions
Questions about an early pregnancy scan
How early can I have a scan?
From around six weeks a heartbeat is usually visible. Earlier than that a scan can be inconclusive, which is a limitation of timing rather than a sign that something is wrong. If you are unsure of your dates, six to seven weeks is usually the most informative point.
Will it be an internal scan?
Usually yes. In early pregnancy a transvaginal scan gives a far clearer view than an abdominal one. It is safe in pregnancy and no more uncomfortable than a smear. An abdominal scan can be done if you would prefer, with the caveat that the view is less detailed.
Is ultrasound safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Diagnostic ultrasound has been used in pregnancy for decades and uses sound waves rather than radiation. It is the standard method of assessing early pregnancy.
What if the scan cannot find a heartbeat?
That can mean the pregnancy is earlier than the dates suggest, and a repeat scan in seven to ten days is often the appropriate next step. It can also mean the pregnancy is not progressing. Whichever it is, you are told honestly during the appointment and given a clear plan.
Can you tell me the sex of the baby?
Not this early. Sex is not reliably visible until around 16 weeks. This scan is about location, viability and dating.
When should I go to hospital instead?
If you have severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, pain at the tip of your shoulder, or you feel faint, go to an Early Pregnancy Unit or A&E immediately rather than booking a clinic appointment. Those symptoms need urgent assessment.
Book an early pregnancy scan
Same-day appointments at 1-5 Portpool Lane. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, shoulder-tip pain or feel faint, go to an Early Pregnancy Unit or A&E now rather than booking an appointment.