FAQ's

An ultrasound scan uses harmless sound waves to create images of your uterus, ovaries, and baby during pregnancy. It does not involve radiation and is considered safe for both mother and baby.
For early pregnancy and gynaecological scans, a moderately full bladder can help to provide clearer images, but your bladder does not need to be uncomfortably full. Later in pregnancy, a full bladder is not required.
Ultrasound is generally painless. You may feel mild pressure from the ultrasound transducer, or slight discomfort if a transvaginal scan is recommended. If you feel uncomfortable at any stage, please let the sonographer know.

A transvaginal scan involves placing a thin, covered probe into the vagina. This gives clearer images of the uterus, cervix, and ovaries, and is often used in early pregnancy or gynaecological assessments. It is safe, should not be painful, and you can decline if you are not comfortable. We recommend that all women have their cervical length measured at the time of the routine morphology ultrasound scan performed at about 20 weeks of pregnancy. Usually this can be done transabdominally but a transvaginal assessment is more accurate and is therefore recommended if you have any risk factors for preterm birth or if the cervix cannot be clearly seen or appears short.

Yes, you are welcome to bring a support person to your appointment. In pregnancy scans, they can often be present during the scan to share the experience.
Most scans take 20–40 minutes depending on the type of examination and the baby’s position. Sometimes, the scan may take longer if more detailed views are needed.
The sonographer will explain the findings during the scan. The final report will be prepared by a specialist and sent to your doctor or midwife.

If anything unusual is seen, the findings will be discussed sensitively with you. In some cases, you may be referred for further scans or specialist review for more information. If any abnormal findings are detected, the sonographer will also speak to your doctor or midwife to ensure you get further follow up.

Yes, we provide printed images of your baby for all pregnancy scans. We will also give you the option to receive images and videos of your scan direct to your mobile phone at the completion of the ultrasound scan.
Not always. Some issues can be assessed using an abdominal scan. However, a transvaginal scan often provides more detailed information about your uterus and ovaries. You will always be asked for your consent first.
Bowel preparation is recommended if you have a scan to investigate pelvic pain or your doctor suspects you may have endometriosis. The bowel preparation allows us to obtain better quality images to help make a diagnosis. Further information about whether bowel preparation is required will be provided when you book your ultrasound.
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