We ask you to have a full bladder so that a transabdominal scan can be performed first. If we are unable to gain all the information we need from this scan we will ask you to empty your bladder so that a transvaginal scan can be performed.

This scan is important for women who have experienced pain or bleeding in the pregnancy, and useful for those who have history of ectopic pregnancy, are unsure of the date of their last period, have a history of miscarriage or want reassurance.

Combined Test / Nuchal Translucency scan
(11 weeks – 14 weeks and 6 days)

Down’s Syndrome is the most common cause of learning disability. It is a chromosomal abnormality caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21. The chance of having a baby with Down’s Syndrome increases as the mother gets older but there is a risk for women of all ages. The Combined Test is a screening test that measures various ultrasound and biochemical (substances in the mothers blood) markers to give an individualised risk of a pregnancy being affected with Down’s Syndrome.

The ultrasound markers that are utilised for the test are measurement of the nuchal translucency, presence or absence of the nasal bone and tricuspid regurgitation, assessment of flow in the ductus venosus and detailed examination of the babies anatomy. Maternal blood is also taken to measure levels of Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (the pregnancy hormone) and Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein A (a protein produced by the developing placenta). The findings from the various assessments are then combined to give an individualised risk of the pregnancy being affected by Down’s Syndrome. The Combined Test can be performed between 11 weeks and 13 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy.

A risk of 1 in 300 or greater is considered to be “screen positive”. Women with a screen positive result will be offered counselling and a definitive diagnostic test i.e. CVS or amniocentesis.

Detailed Anatomy Scan (16 – 23 weeks)

The purpose of this scan is to check that your baby is structurally normal. Most babies are healthy, but unfortunately some have problems that cannot be predicted by the health of the mother or family history.

The major structures within the baby are carefully examined by one of our highly trained consultants or sonographers. When you attend for this scan we assume that you want to know about any abnormalities that are detected or concerns that are raised. The findings of your scan will be discussed fully with you during your consultation.

This scan is normally performed from 18 weeks onwards. However in certain cases e.g. multiple pregnancies, it may be beneficial to perform the scan at 16 weeks and then again at 21- 23 weeks

Fetal Well-being Scan (32-34 weeks)

This examination is usually carried out in the third trimester of pregnancy and is used to assess:

• • The position of the baby
• Size of the baby
• Amount of fluid surrounding the baby
• Location of the placenta
• Blood flow from the placenta to the baby
• Blood flow in the baby’s brain
• Baby’s overall well-being

Fetal Echocardiography Scan

A detailed scan performed by a fetal medicine consultant or paediatric cardiologist that looks specifically at the structure and functioning of the baby’s heart and major blood vessels. Women who have diabetes, have had an increased nuchal translucency or have a family history of congenital heart disease would be advised to have this scan.

3D/4D Well-being Scan

This scan allows you to see your baby and the many movements your baby performs whilst in the womb. The  sonographer will explain what can be seen on the screen throughout the time. The optimum time to perform this scan is between 26 and 32 weeks when the baby’s facial features and expressions are clearly visible. You will be given a DVD as well as still images of your baby.

Measurements of your baby will be taken during the 3D/4D scan to check your baby’s growth, but there will be no detailed examination of the baby’s anatomy. If, however, any unexpected abnormalities are detected we will discuss them with you at the time and contact your consultant.

Frequently asked Questions

When can the baby’s heartbeat be seen on ultrasound scan?
The baby’s heartbeat can usually be seen on ultrasound scan from 6 weeks (in other words, 2-3 weeks after your missed period). In early pregnancy it is sometimes necessary to perform a scan transvaginally to assess the pregnancy properly.

Can ultrasound harm my baby?
Lots of research has been done and there is no evidence to suggest that ultrasound can harm unborn babies. Ultrasound during pregnancy is widely accepted as safe for mother and baby.

Do I need to have a full bladder?
You will need to have a full bladder for both early pregnancy and Nuchal Translucency scans. However for scans after 14 weeks this is usually not necessary. To fill your bladder drink approximately 3 cups of water about an hour before your appointment. If you become very uncomfortable please go the toilet. Your bladder will fill quickly if you are well hydrated.

What is nuchal translucency?
This is a collection of fluid under the skin at the back of the baby’s neck which can be measured using ultrasound. All babies have some fluid, but in many babies with Down’s syndrome, the nuchal translucency is increased.

What is 4D ultrasound?
The latest ultrasound technology adds the fourth dimension (time) to a 3D image, allowing you to see the movements of your unborn baby.

Which ultrasound machine do you use?
We use the GE E8 – the top of the range machine for obtaining 2D/3D/4D images.