There are two main scans you will have on the NHS during your pregnancy. They are the 12-week (dating) scan and the 20-week anomaly scan, though you may be offered extra scans for reasons such as pregnancy complications or risk factors that need more attention.
Having an ultrasound scan is a safe and common procedure that produces two-dimensional black and white images on a screen. They’re also incredibly effective at detecting problems that may arise during the pregnancy and birth.
How Many Baby Scans Do You Have on the NHS?
A dating scan, or NI Baby Scan, can reveal whether you’re expecting a boy or a girl, and give you an accurate due date for your baby. This can reassure parents-to-be that everything is fine with their growing baby’s gender scan Belfast and can help them plan maternity care and prepare for the birth.
Your 12-week (dating) scan will be performed by a sonographer, who will pass a probe over your tummy and look at a picture of your baby on a screen. They’ll be able to see your baby’s growth and development, including its heart, brain and other body parts.
You’ll be given a copy of your baby’s image so you can see it at home. The scan will take about 20 minutes and you may need to drink lots of water or other fluid before your appointment.
Your scan will be done in a private room with dim lighting, so it will be very quiet and your sonographer can focus on their work. You should be able to bring your partner, if you wish.