Dating Scan (12–18 Weeks) Ultrasound
Following an Early Pregnancy (Viability) Scan at 6–10 weeks, it is recommended to have a Dating Scan between 12 and 18 weeks of pregnancy. This routine ultrasound helps determine important details about your pregnancy, including gestational age, estimated due date (EDD), and whether you are expecting one or more babies. It is particularly helpful if you have irregular menstrual cycles or are unsure of your last menstrual period, making it difficult to calculate your due date accurately.
During the scan, your baby’s basic structures are examined, offering an early assessment of growth and development. The most accurate time to date a pregnancy is between 10 and 14 weeks, when the Crown Rump Length (CRL) measurement is taken. For pregnancies beyond 14 weeks, the head circumference (HC) is used to estimate gestational age.
A dating scan is a safe, non-invasive, and painless procedure that provides valuable insight into your baby’s development. It also helps ensure that you receive the right care and guidance throughout your pregnancy journey.
What are the reasons for a Dating Scan?
- Date your pregnancy and calculate your due date.
- Examine the fetus’s basic structure.
- General assurance about fetal development and pregnancy viability.
How is this scan performed?
The procedure depends on gestational age and individual circumstances. In most cases, a transabdominal scan is performed after the 10th week of pregnancy, where the ultrasound probe is gently placed over your abdomen to capture images of your developing baby.
If the pregnancy is still in its early stages, or if clear images are not obtainable through the abdomen, a transvaginal scan may be recommended. Both methods are safe, routine, and generally comfortable. If you have any concerns or experience discomfort, please inform your sonographer so they can make appropriate adjustments to ensure your comfort and safety.
What are the preparations for a Dating Scan?
You will be asked to drink approximately 1 litre of water about one hour before your appointment to ensure a comfortably full bladder, which helps improve image quality during the abdominal scan. You may eat and drink normally before your ultrasound.
What is the price of a Dating Scan?
Dating Scan (12–18 Weeks): £110
Location: Kensington Olympia, London W14 0SH – No GP referral is required.
