Pregnancy Ultrasound

What is a pregnancy ultrasound?

An obstetric, or pregnancy scan uses high frequency sound waves that ‘bounce’ off your baby and internal organs. These waves create echoes, which are recorded and displayed in real time on a monitor.  Ultrasound doesn’t use radiation and is considered completely safe during pregnancy.

Understanding your pregnancy ultrasound

Before your scan

• Before your appointment we will give you a rundown of everything you need to know, including any preparation you need to undertake before your appointment. For example, you may need to fast beforehand (avoiding any food in the hours prior), drink water or avoid going to the toilet.
• Please remember to bring your completed midwife or doctor’s referral form with you, if this has not already been sent to us. This contains important information that our team need to provide you with the best possible care.

On the day of your scan

• On arrival, please check in with reception.
• The sonographer performing the examination will ask you questions about your pregnancy and make you comfortable. They will explain the procedure and answer any questions you have before starting the scan.
• You will not be permitted to video, record or take photographs during your ultrasound as it is important that your sonographer can concentrate fully without any distractions. You can have access to the scan images afterward should you wish.
• Generally, you’ll be able to stay in your own clothes, but your sonographer will ask you to bare your stomach, from chest to lower hips, so it’s a good idea to wear a top and trousers or a skirt.
• Scans typically last between 30 and 45 minutes.
• There are two types of obstetric scans:

External ultrasound

• The transducer (imaging device / probe) is moved over your skin using a water-based gel to help the probe glide.

Internal ultrasound

• This will only be used in cases where the sonographer can’t get a clear image from the external ultrasound.
• The transducer (imaging device) is inserted in the vagina like a tampon.
• This enables the sonographer to obtain the best view of baby and placenta with the transducer as close to the cervix as possible.
• You’ll lie on your back and you may have a cushion positioned underneath you.
• It may be slightly uncomfortable, but not painful. You have the option of guiding the transducer in yourself should you wish.

Note: We understand that an internal ultrasound can be a personally invasive procedure, so you are welcome to request a female sonographer to perform this scan. Please make this known at the time of booking your appointment. You also have the right to decline.

After your scan

• For the vast majority of ultrasound scans you can get on with your normal day.
• Once all your images are taken by the sonographer, these are sent to the radiologist who reviews the images and provides a detailed report which is sent to your referrer.
• If you have had imaging with us before, register for MyImaging (our Patient Portal) to access your images immediately after your scan. If you haven’t had imaging with us before, you can still register and will get access within one working day of your scan. Your imaging reports will be available after ten working days, to allow your primary care provider time to review the results and arrange to go over them with you.
• Your sonographer won’t give you a printed photo or USB after your scan; the portal is a more environmentally friendly, sustainable, and convenient way for you to access your images.