An early pregnancy scan (up to 12 weeks gestation) offers reassurance during one of the most uncertain stages of pregnancy — the first trimester. At AristoGp in Central London, Dr Anastasia Mermigka performs and interprets early pregnancy ultrasound scans from 6 weeks, with same-day appointments often available.
What Is an Early Pregnancy Scan (up to 12 weeks gestation)?
An early pregnancy scan (up to 12 weeks gestation) (also called a viability scan or first trimester scan) is an ultrasound examination performed between 6 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. It is used to confirm that a pregnancy is developing normally inside the uterus, to check for a heartbeat, and to give an accurate gestational age based on the size of the embryo or fetus.
The scan can be performed either transabdominally (through the lower abdomen) or transvaginally (with a small probe placed in the vagina). The transvaginal approach gives a clearer image in early pregnancy, particularly before 8 weeks, when the embryo is very small. Both methods are safe and well-tolerated, and Dr Mermigka will explain each step before proceeding.
When Should You Have an Early Pregnancy Scan (up to 12 weeks gestation)?
Most women book an early pregnancy scan (up to 12 weeks gestation) in one of three situations:
- Reassurance after a positive pregnancy test — many women want confirmation that the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus and a heartbeat is present, particularly after a previous miscarriage or fertility treatment.
- Symptoms that need investigation — bleeding, pain, or unusual discharge in early pregnancy should be assessed promptly. An ultrasound scan is the most reliable way to investigate these symptoms.
- Uncertain dates — if the date of the last menstrual period is unclear or cycles are irregular, an early scan provides accurate dating that is more reliable than a later scan.
The earliest a pregnancy can be reliably seen on ultrasound is around 5.5–6 weeks, when the gestational sac becomes visible. A heartbeat is usually detectable from 6.5–7 weeks. Scans performed before 6 weeks may not show a heartbeat even in a healthy pregnancy, which can cause unnecessary anxiety. For this reason we generally recommend waiting until at least 7 weeks unless symptoms require earlier assessment.
What Happens During an Early Pregnancy Scan (up to 12 weeks gestation) at AristoGp?
An early pregnancy appointment (up to 12 weeks gestation) with Dr Mermigka usually lasts 30–45 minutes and includes:
- Brief medical history — your dates, any symptoms, previous pregnancies, and any concerns you would like to discuss.
- Pelvic ultrasound scan — transabdominal or transvaginal as clinically appropriate. The screen is positioned so you can see the images.
- Discussion of findings — Dr Mermigka explains what is visible, the gestational age, and the heartbeat if present.
- Written report and images — provided so you can share with your NHS midwife or GP.
- Onward planning — advice about NHS antenatal care, follow-up scans if needed, or next steps if findings require further assessment.
Pricing for Early Pregnancy Scans in London
At AristoGp, an early pregnancy assessment (up to 12 weeks gestation) with consultation and pelvic ultrasound is £270. This includes the consultation with Dr Mermigka, the scan itself, written report, and same-day discussion of findings. There are no separate radiologist fees — the consultant who performs the scan also interprets it and discusses the results with you.
For full pricing across all our services, see our pricing guide.
Bleeding or Pain in Early Pregnancy
Light spotting in early pregnancy is common and often not a sign of miscarriage. However, heavier bleeding, persistent pain, or shoulder-tip pain should always be assessed promptly. If you are experiencing concerning symptoms, contact us via WhatsApp on +44 7490 643706 and we will arrange a same-day or next-day scan where possible.
If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or feel unwell, you should attend your nearest A&E department, particularly if pregnancy is between 6–12 weeks (when ectopic pregnancy is possible).
NHS Early Pregnancy Care vs Private
The NHS provides early pregnancy assessment (up to 12 weeks gestation) through Early Pregnancy Assessment (up to 12 weeks gestation) Units (EPAU), which are typically accessed through GP referral or A&E. Waiting times vary considerably across London, and many women want to be seen sooner — either for symptom investigation or simply for reassurance.
A private early pregnancy scan (up to 12 weeks gestation) at AristoGp offers:
- Same-day or next-day appointments where available
- Consultant-led assessment (not a sonographer alone)
- Calm, unhurried 30–45 minute consultation
- Same-day report and onward advice
- No GP referral required
About Dr Anastasia Mermigka
Dr Anastasia Mermigka is a Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician with over 15 years of clinical experience (GMC 7640566). She performs and interprets all pelvic ultrasound scans personally, meaning patients receive both the scan and the consultant explanation in a single appointment. Languages: English, Greek, and Italian.
Read more about Dr Mermigka on the Our Doctors page or visit her Doctify profile (5.0/5 verified reviews).
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can a pregnancy scan detect a heartbeat?
A heartbeat is usually detectable from around 6.5–7 weeks of pregnancy on a transvaginal scan. Before 6 weeks, the embryo may be too small to visualise reliably, even in a healthy pregnancy. Scans performed too early can cause unnecessary worry, so we generally recommend waiting until at least 7 weeks unless there are urgent symptoms.
Is a transvaginal scan safe in early pregnancy?
Yes. Transvaginal ultrasound is safe and is the standard approach in early pregnancy because it gives a much clearer image than a transabdominal scan when the uterus is still small. The probe is small and is covered with a sterile sheath. Dr Mermigka explains the procedure step by step before proceeding.
Do I need a GP referral for a private early pregnancy scan (up to 12 weeks gestation)?
No. You can book directly with AristoGp without a GP referral. Online booking is available 24/7 and we offer same-day or next-day scans where possible.
Will I get a written report?
Yes. You receive a written report you can share with your NHS midwife, GP, or any other clinician involved in your care. Images can also be provided.
What if the scan finds a problem?
If the scan shows findings that need further assessment — such as a possible miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or unclear dating — Dr Mermigka discusses next steps with you in detail and helps arrange onward care, whether that is a follow-up scan, NHS Early Pregnancy Assessment (up to 12 weeks gestation) Unit referral, or other specialist input.
Book an Early Pregnancy Scan (up to 12 weeks gestation) at AristoGp
To book an early pregnancy scan (up to 12 weeks gestation) with Dr Mermigka, use our online booking system or message us via WhatsApp. The clinic is at 1-5 Portpool Lane, London EC1N 7UU — five minutes from Chancery Lane Underground station.
