An early pregnancy scan is often the first glimpse you'll have of your developing baby. At Ultrasound Ireland, we understand how exciting—and sometimes nerve-wracking—this moment can be. This guide will help you understand what to expect.
When Should You Have an Early Pregnancy Scan?
We typically recommend booking your early pregnancy scan between 6.5 and 11 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage, we can:
- Confirm the pregnancy is developing in the uterus
- Check for a heartbeat
- Measure the baby to estimate your due date
- Determine if you're carrying multiples
If you're unsure how far along you are, don't worry—our experienced sonographers can help determine this during your scan.
What Happens During the Scan?
The scan itself usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Here's what to expect:
- Arrival: You'll be greeted by our friendly reception team at one of our three Dublin locations
- Preparation: You may be asked to have a moderately full bladder, which helps provide clearer images
- The Scan: Our sonographer will apply warm gel to your tummy and use the ultrasound transducer to capture images
- Discussion: We'll explain what we see on the screen and answer any questions you have
"Our goal is to make every patient feel comfortable and informed throughout their scan experience. We take time to explain everything we're seeing on the screen." — Monica Healy, Lead Sonographer
What Will I See on the Screen?
During an early pregnancy scan, you'll typically see:
- The gestational sac: A small, dark circular area where your baby is developing
- The yolk sac: A small ring inside the gestational sac that provides nutrients
- The embryo: Your developing baby, which may look like a tiny bean shape
- The heartbeat: A flickering motion that indicates your baby's heart is beating
At 6-7 weeks, your baby will be around 5-9mm in length—about the size of a lentil. By 11 weeks, they'll have grown to approximately 40mm.
Preparing for Your Appointment
To get the clearest images and make your experience as comfortable as possible, we recommend:
- Drink water before your appointment: A moderately full bladder helps with image quality. Aim to drink 2-3 glasses of water about an hour before your scan
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing: You'll need to expose your lower tummy, so separates work better than dresses
- Bring your partner or support person: Sharing this special moment can make it even more memorable
- Prepare any questions: Write down anything you'd like to ask so you don't forget
What If I'm Worried About the Scan?
It's completely natural to feel anxious before an early pregnancy scan. Here are some things to keep in mind:
If you've had a previous miscarriage
We understand how difficult this time can be. Our team is trained to be sensitive to your needs, and we'll take extra time to support you through the process.
If you're experiencing symptoms
If you're having bleeding or cramping, an early scan can help provide reassurance or identify any issues that need attention. Don't hesitate to book an appointment—early detection allows for the best possible care.
After Your Scan
Following your scan, you'll receive:
- A detailed report of the findings
- Images of your baby to take home
- Recommendations for your next scan if appropriate
Most patients find that an early scan provides wonderful reassurance and an opportunity to bond with their developing baby.
Book Your Early Pregnancy Scan
Ready to schedule your scan? Contact us or call 01 210 0232 to book an appointment at any of our three Dublin locations:
- Blackrock: Open 7 days a week
- Tallaght: Convenient South Dublin location
- Santry (Omni Park): Easy access with free parking
Our experienced team is here to support you through every step of your pregnancy journey.