What are ultrasound scans?

Ultrasound scans use sound waves to build a picture of the baby in the womb. They're used to:

check the size of your baby (this gives us a better idea of how many weeks pregnant you are and when your due date will be)
check if you're having more than one baby
detect some abnormalities
look at the position of your baby and the placenta
check that your baby is growing normally.

An appointment to have an ultrasound scan will usually take about 20 to 30 minutes.

How many will I have?

You'll be offered at least two scans: one when you're eight to 14 weeks pregnant, and one when you're between 18 and 21 weeks pregnant.

At the first scan, the sonographer will measure your baby and use the measurements to estimate your due date. At this appointment, you'll also have screening tests for Down's, Edwards' and Patau's syndromes if you've chosen to have these tests.

At the second scan, the sonographer will look closely at your baby to check if they have some physical abnormalities.

Can I have more than two scans?

You will be offered more than two scans if your medical team feel there is a clinical reason.

More information

To read more about ultrasound scans in pregnancy, visit our maternity patient information page.

The NHS website also has some useful information on scans: