Dating & Viability Scan
The dating and viability scan is an ultrasound examination, usually carried out between 6 - 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Aims of the Dating Scan:
- The viability of the pregnancy;
- The gestational age of the pregnancy;
- The number of embryos present;
- The position of the pregnancy and whether the pregnancy is progressing normally inside the uterus;
- This scan is useful for women who are experiencing pain or bleeding in the pregnancy, and those who have had previous miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies.
3D Rendered Illustration Of A Fetus At Week 5.
The ultrasound appearance will depend on the gestational age of the pregnancy. At 5 weeks gestation, only a gestational sac will be seen. After this, a yolk sac will be visible, then a small fetus. The size of the fetus has to be over 4mm to see a heartbeat. A viable fetus can be seen before the heart has begun to beat.
Moderately Full Bladder:
For the best possible images, it is helpful to have a moderately full bladder. This helps lift the uterus above the pelvic bone. About an hour before your appointment, please empty your bladder and drink two standard glasses of water. Do not go to the toilet again until after your scan. We don’t require your bladder to be uncomfortably full, so please inform our reception staff if you are uncomfortable while waiting.
Family Member:
You are welcome to have your partner/family member join you for the scan. It is important to remember that this is a diagnostic procedure and the sonographer will need to concentrate on the images of your baby.
