If you’re pregnant and in the UK, you’ll have a series of tests and scans as part of your pregnancy care. One of these important scans is called the 12-week dating scan.
What is the dating scan and when it is done?
The 12-week scan, often referred to as the dating scan, is crucial. It’s typically performed between 8 and 14 weeks of pregnancy, to assess your pregnancy’s progress and your baby’s development. During this scan, several aspects are examined:
- Gestational Age and Due Date: The scan helps determine how far along you are in your pregnancy and estimates your due date. You can also calculate your due date using our pregnancy calculator.
- Number of Babies: The scan reveals whether you’re expecting one baby, twins, or more.
- Correct Position of Pregnancy: The scan ensures that the baby is growing in the right place, ruling out an ectopic pregnancy (when the embryo implants outside the uterus).
If you’ve chosen to undergo Down’s Syndrome screening, it will also be included in this scan. To assess this, the doctor will measure the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck, known as nuchal translucency. Additionally, you’ll be offered a blood test as part of the combined screening for Down’s Syndrome. The combined results of the scan and blood test will provide a risk percentage for the likelihood of your baby developing this condition.
How can you schedule the scan?
Your midwife will arrange the scan for you after your initial midwife appointment. Typically, the scan takes place at the ultrasound department of your chosen hospital and lasts around 20 minutes. Depending on your pregnancy’s stage, you might need to have a full bladder for the scan.
Find out what other tests and appointments you will have during pregnancy.
