Early Pregnancy Scan
Early pregnancy scans are performed from 6 weeks up to 14 weeks of pregnancy. Your baby is still very small and as such the anatomical detail at this stage is quite limited, however we can take measurements which will accurately date your pregnancy to within 3 to 5 days. The Sonographer can determine if it is a single or multiple pregnancy and out-rule the possibility of ectopic pregnancy. You will receive a computerised report detailing the findings of the scan which you can take with you for your G.P. and / or Obstetrician.
The Early Pregnancy Unit (EPU) in Mount Carmel has been set up to cater for ALL women who seek reassurance in the first trimester of pregnancy. They may be a little anxious, may have had a previous miscarriage or may be experiencing some pain or bleeding.
Before attending the Ultrasound Unit you
should have a positive pregnancy test result and the date of your last menstrual period will also be required , if known. If you are unsure of dates we will use the ultrasound measurements to provide you with the estimated due date.
If you seek a reassurance scan it is best to wait until at least 7 weeks from the first day of your last period. This ensures certainty in viewing a fetal heart and avoids disappointment and the expense of having to repeat the scan.
Naturally when a woman experiences bleeding or pain in early pregnancy it causes concern. Not only is there the possibility of a miscarriage, there is also a small chance that the pregnancy may not be in the womb (an ectopic pregnancy). Should a problem be detected on Ultrasound the Early Pregnancy Unit can provide you with an initial consultation with the Obstetrician on call at no extra charge. He/She will be able to advise you on how best to proceed. Should you require medical care arrangements can be made here in Mount Carmel or a detailed report can be given to you which you can take to a hospital of your choice.
The first trimester is a critical period in determining the outcome of a pregnancy, with miscarriage the single most common complication of pregnancy. Thankfully the majority of women (65% - 70%) who present with bleeding in early pregnancy will have an ongoing viable intrauterine pregnancy.
