Viability and dating scan

This examination can be used to establish the gestational age of the pregnancy and includes ultrasound scan, report and supply of 2D black & white prints. Our viability and dating scan aims to make sure that all is well with the early pregnancy. The scan is useful in cases of vaginal bleeding or to rule out ectopic pregnancies and is strongly recommended for women over the age of 40. The scan may also show if there is any internal bleeding which will require careful monitoring and attention.

Scan available between: 6 - 18 weeks of pregnancy

Time needed for the scan: 15 - 20 minutes

Nuchal scan

The Nuchal Translucency scan confirms a heartbeat, and whether this is a single or multiple pregnancy. The baby’s head, trunk, arms, legs, hands and feet can be seen and the placenta will also be observed, as will the amniotic fluid and umbilical cord. In Down's syndrome, the baby's nose bone can be small or absent. A blood sample from your arm will be taken and a blood test performed which looks at two particular hormones. The result of this test gives a more precise measure of risk and when taken together, can aid in calculating the risk of any fetal abnormalities such as Down's syndrome. This will be translated as a probability of abnormality of one in "something". A probability score of 1 in 300 or better is typically considered to be a good result. The sonographer who performs the ultrasound will discuss the test results with you. This is called the combined test for Down's Syndrome. The Nuchal scan will also test for Edwards Syndrome and Patau's Syndrome and includes ultrasound scan, blood test, report and supply of 2D black & white prints.

Available between: 11 weeks (+4) - 13 weeks (+6) of pregnancy

Time needed for the scan: 20 minutes (plus blood test appointment)

Anomaly scan
Our anomaly scan measures the baby's head, brain, abdomen and legs together with a very thorough investigation to check your baby's heart, brain, spine, bowel and limbs, to detect any abnormalities. While this can never provide a guarantee that the baby will be normal, it gives very strong reassurance. The placenta, amniotic fluid and the umbilical cord will also be checked. If you wish, you can find out the sex of your baby from this scan. Our anomaly offering Includes ultrasound scan, report and supply of 2D black & white prints.

Scan available between: 18 - 24 weeks of pregnancy

Time needed for the scan: 20 - 30 minutes

Growth scan
During the growth scan, the baby's head, abdomen and limbs will be measured, and the sonographer will estimate the baby’s weight. This can help give a rough guidance as to how big your baby will be at birth. The baby's movements will be noted along with the amount of amniotic fluid and placement of the placenta. The Doppler blood flow in the umbilical cord blood vessels will also be studied. While it is still possible to determine the sex of your baby at this point, this becomes more difficult as you approach the end of your pregnancy. Includes ultrasound scan, report and supply of 2D black & white prints.

Scan available between: 24 - 42 weeks of pregnancy

Time needed for the scan: allow up to 30 minutes

Presentation scan

This scan can verify the fetal presentationto to identify whether the baby is cephalic (head down) or breech (head up) and screens for vasa praevia using ultrasound with colour Doppler. Includes standard fetal well–being ultrasound scan report and supply of thermal 2D black & white prints.

Scan available between: 35 - 42 weeks of pregnancy

Time needed for the scan: 15 minutes

By this stage in your pregnancy, the sex of your baby can be determined. The ongoing health and wellbeing of the baby can also be assessed. Growth scans are reliable but may be more difficult if the mother is very overweight, or if the baby is in an unfavourable position. Includes ultrasound scan, report and supply of 2D black & white prints.

Scan available between: 18 - 42 weeks of pregnancy

Time needed for the scan: allow up to 15 minutes

4D reassurance and bonding scan
A 4D scan is actually a 3D scan with the added dimension of time – as in a film or video – so the baby can be seen to be moving. This is a thrilling way to see a moving image of your child for the first time especially for the father so the he can bond with the baby and many parents request this scan to get a "sneak preview" of their baby's face.  Our 4D bonding scan includes:

Time needed for the scan: allow up to 40 minutes

Choose from any of the below extras to add to you scan experience (you may choose these on the day of your scan if you wish)

Optional Extras (prices are on top of the above 4D scan prices)

Baby Premier 'Premier Plus' 4D bonding package (inclusive)

Combines all of the above with an exclusive Baby Premier gift bag and if you wish, conformation of your baby’s gender. To view a collection of other gifts and visit our online shop click here. Our Premier Plus package includes:

Baby Premier 'birthing' scan package

Consisting of the four major antenatal ultrasound scans offering the peace of mind that these screening appointments are booked for you as well as the opportunity to bond with your baby during your pregnancy:

• Viability and dating scan
• Nuchal scan (inc. blood test)
• Anomaly scan
• 4D Premier Plus scan

             £499     £635

Private Maternity and Pregnancy Care from the Birth Clinic

The Birth Clinic is the UK's premier pregnancy group and the only one of its kind bringing together the country’s top obstetricians, fertility specialists, ultrasound clinics and therapists, to delivery a choice of high quality care at an affordable price.

At The Birth Clinic you have a choice in hospitals, a choice in consultants and a choice in your care.  The Birth Clinic offers several pregnancy care options ranging from fully private care led by a consultant to partial private care that integrates into your NHS care.  Below are links to more information about these services:

• Full Private Care packages
• Partial Private Care packages
• Additional Maternity Services
• Postnatal Package

If you have any questions, please contact the Birth Clinic directly on 0844 561 0764