Your first NHS scan usually happens at around 12 weeks, which can feel like a long wait — especially in the early weeks, after a previous loss, or if you've had any bleeding or pain. A private early reassurance scan can bridge that gap.
Early scans are available from about 7 weeks of pregnancy. The aim is gentle reassurance: confirming the pregnancy and, where possible, seeing a heartbeat.
🔍What it checks
- That the pregnancy is developing in the womb
- Whether there is a heartbeat
- How many babies there are
- An early estimate of how many weeks along you are
- General reassurance about early development
💛What to expect
In very early pregnancy the clearest image sometimes comes from a small internal (transvaginal) scan; later, a scan over the tummy is usually enough. Your sonographer will explain and only ever proceed with your consent.
Most appointments take around 15–20 minutes, and you'll receive a report to take home on the day.
💬Questions worth asking
- Can you see a heartbeat?
- How many weeks do I appear to be?
- Is the pregnancy in the right place?
- When would you suggest my next scan?
Good to know. An early private scan is for reassurance and does not replace your NHS pregnancy care. If you have bleeding, severe pain or other worrying symptoms, contact your GP, midwife or early pregnancy unit.
Sources:
www.nhs.uk