Early Pregnancy Scan
Your first glimpse of baby — checking for a heartbeat, dating the pregnancy, and checking development is as expected. Safe, painless, and informative. No radiation.
About This Scan
An early pregnancy scan (also called a viability or dating scan) is performed between 6.5 and 11 weeks of pregnancy to confirm that your pregnancy is developing normally in the uterus.
This is often your first opportunity to see your baby and hear the heartbeat.
How we date your pregnancy
We measure the crown-rump length (CRL) — the distance from the top of the embryo's head to the bottom of its body. This measurement provides reliable dating in early pregnancy, even if you're unsure of your last menstrual period.
What you'll see
At 8 weeks, you'll typically see the pregnancy sac, heartbeat, and embryo. If you wait until 12 weeks, you'll see the baby's head, limbs, hands, and feet beginning to form.
When Is the Best Time to Have This Scan?
Ideal timing: 8-10 weeks
- Before 6 weeks: The heartbeat may not be detectable yet — this doesn't necessarily indicate a problem, but can cause unnecessary worry
- 6.5-8 weeks: You'll see the gestational sac, yolk sac, and embryo with heartbeat
- 8-11 weeks: Clearer images; baby's head and limbs beginning to form
- After 11 weeks: Consider our Later Dating Scan or Nuchal Translucency Scan
What We Check
- Confirm the pregnancy is in the uterus (not ectopic)
- Detect and confirm the embryonic heartbeat
- Check for single or multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets)
- Measure the embryo to estimate gestational age and due date
- Visualise the yolk sac and gestational sac
- Examine the ovaries, uterus, and cervix
What's Included
- Ultrasound examination
- Medical obstetric ultrasound report
- Glossy keepsake photo to take home
Why You Might Need This Scan
- •To confirm pregnancy after a positive home test
- •To check the heartbeat and confirm viability
- •To determine how far along you are
- •To confirm your due date
- •To check for twins or multiple pregnancy
What to Expect
Before Your Scan
Attend with a mildly filled bladder (not uncomfortably full) — this helps visualise the pregnancy in early weeks. Know your last menstrual period date if possible. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
What to bring:
- •Results of any previous pregnancy tests
- •Details of your last menstrual period (if known)
Preparation checklist:
- Drink 1-2 glasses of water about 30 minutes before your appointment
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing
- Arrive 10 minutes early to complete your form
During the Scan
You'll lie comfortably on an examination table. The sonographer applies warm gel to your lower abdomen and gently moves the ultrasound probe to capture images.
Internal scan: Sometimes an internal (transvaginal) scan provides clearer images in very early pregnancy. If this is recommended, the sonographer will explain the procedure. A thin probe covered with a sterile sheath is gently inserted — this is not painful and provides excellent views of early pregnancy.
You'll be able to watch the scan on a large HD screen. The sonographer will point out your baby and explain what you're seeing. You'll hear the heartbeat.
The scan typically takes 20-30 minutes.
After Your Scan
You'll receive verbal results and an obstetric report. You'll also take home a glossy keepsake photo of your baby.
Pricing
Early Pregnancy Scan: €105
Twins: +€100
Cancellation: We require 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Available 7 days a week across our three Dublin locations.
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Our experienced team is available 7 days a week across our three Dublin locations.