What to Expect at Your First Baby Scan
If you’ve recently found out you’re expecting, congratulations – this is such an exciting time. One of the first big milestones in your pregnancy journey is your first baby scan. Whether you’re visiting us here in Consett for a private scan or waiting for your NHS appointment, knowing what to expect can help you feel more relaxed and prepared.
When Your First Scan Usually Happens
In the UK, your first NHS scan – often called the dating scan – usually takes place between 11 and 14 weeks. This scan confirms how far along you are, checks your baby’s development, and can sometimes pick up if you’re expecting more than one baby.
If you’d like reassurance earlier, you can choose to have a private early pregnancy scan from around 6 weeks. Many parents choose this for peace of mind, especially if they’ve experienced anxiety or uncertainty in the early weeks.
Before You Arrive
If you’re booked in for an early scan, we may ask you to have a comfortably full bladder – this helps create clearer images, especially in early pregnancy. You don’t need to drink litres of water, just enough so that you feel you need to go but aren’t uncomfortable.
Wearing loose clothing can also make things easier, as the sonographer will need access to your tummy.
During the Scan
Most first scans are abdominal, which means a small amount of gel will be placed on your tummy before the ultrasound probe is gently moved over the skin. If you’re very early in your pregnancy, we might recommend a transvaginal scan for clearer images – this sounds intimidating, but it’s a simple, safe, and painless procedure.
Your sonographer will take measurements, check your baby’s heartbeat, and look at the surrounding structures to make sure everything is progressing as it should. If you’re having a private scan, we’ll also give you time to see your baby on the screen and answer any questions you might have.
What You’ll Learn
At your first scan, you’ll usually find out:
- Your estimated due date
- How many weeks pregnant you are
- Whether you’re expecting one baby or multiples
- How your baby is developing so far
In some cases, certain checks – such as nuchal translucency for Down’s syndrome screening – are also done at this stage in NHS scans.
Seeing Your Baby for the First Time
It’s completely normal to feel emotional when you see your baby for the first time. Many parents describe it as the moment everything starts to feel real. If you’d like, you can bring your partner or a loved one with you to share the experience.
After Your Scan
If you’re having a private scan with us here in Consett, you’ll receive printed images to take home – and in some packages, you can even get digital copies sent straight to your phone. This is a lovely way to share your news with friends and family.
If you’re having your scan through the NHS, you’ll be given your scan report, which you can keep in your maternity notes.
In summary: your first baby scan is an exciting and reassuring part of pregnancy. Whether you choose to have it privately or through the NHS, knowing what to expect can help you feel calm, confident, and ready to enjoy the moment.