Time for the Routine Scan? Everything You Need to Know About the Examination

When will I have my routine ultrasound?

In the UK, a dating scan is usually offered between 8 and 14 weeks of pregnancy, and a detailed anomaly scan is offered between 18 and 21 weeks. The exact timing of your routine ultrasound depends on where you live, as it may vary between different locations. You will receive an appointment when it's your turn, so you don't need to book an appointment yourself.

How does a routine ultrasound work?

The examination is performed by your midwife or doctor. You will lie on an examination couch with your abdomen exposed. The midwife or doctor applies a gel to your abdomen and then moves an ultrasound transducer over your abdomen to visualise the foetus from different angles on a screen. The examination takes approximately 30 minutes.

What is checked during the routine ultrasound?

The purpose of the routine ultrasound is to assess the baby's health before birth. Your doctor or midwife will check, among other things:

• How many foetuses there are
• The length of the pregnancy (by measuring the head) & estimated due date
• That the foetus is growing proportionally (by measuring the abdomen and femur)
• How much amniotic fluid there is
• The foetus's anatomy (heart, brain, cerebellum, fluid-filled spaces in the head, arms, legs, face, abdomen, kidneys, bladder, spine)
• The position of the placenta

Can I find out the baby's sex during the routine ultrasound?

You can ask the doctor or midwife about the baby's sex if you are curious, but they can't always give you a definite answer. This depends, among other things, on how the baby is positioned.

How common is it to detect abnormalities during the routine ultrasound?

Approximately 98 percent of all routine ultrasounds are normal. It is common for the doctor or midwife to take a closer look at something that could be abnormal, but is then assessed as normal. However, a normal routine ultrasound is not a guarantee – some abnormalities are difficult to detect with ultrasound.

Do I have to have a routine ultrasound?

Yes, all foetal screening is offered on the NHS. You can choose whether or not to have the routine ultrasound.

Are there any risks associated with having an ultrasound?

No, ultrasound is a safe method, both for you and your baby. There is no increased risk of miscarriage, and the sound waves do not affect the baby.