Question 1

What happens at my appointment?

Accepted Answer

The appointment time that is listed for the type of scan includes everything that happens at your appointment. 
You will be greeted by our clinic staff and, following completion of a pre-scan questionnaire to understand your pregnancy more thoroughly, your scan will be undertaken by our expert team. The actual time spent scanning will vary depending on your baby's position and the primary purpose of the scan. 
We strictly follow the "As Low As Reasonably Achievable" (ALARA) Principle, which means we will only scan for as long as necessary to achieve the images required. This means that your baby is not exposed to ultrasound for longer than required and is the responsible way to perform ultrasound scans. 
We will make sure the primary purpose of the scan is met and you have had sufficient time to bond with your baby. we will answer any questions you may have during your appointment.

Following your scan you will have time to review the images obtained and decide which you would like to be sent electronically. Our staff will compose a detailed report of your scan and this will also be sent to you electronically.

Question 2

What is the difference between diagnostic and non-diagnostic scans?

Accepted Answer

All of the scans performed at The Pregnancy Experts are 'diagnostic' scans and are performed by qualified staff (consultant obstetrician or midwife) for the purposes of ensuring your baby's wellbeing. They will act upon their duty of care with incidental findings and write clinical diagnostic reports that can be shared with your NHS healthcare providers. 
The ultrasound equipment used is state-of-the-art ensuring scans performed are of the highest quality.

Any pregnancy scan that is referred to as 'non-diagnostic' should be avoided. The term suggests that:
- the ultrasound equipment, which is designed to be diagnostic, is not being used in accordance 
  with the manufacturer's guidelines
- the person undertaking the scan may not be a healthcare professional or not obliged to follow 
  duty of care requirements (they may not recognise or ignore any incidental findings)
- the person operating the ultrasound machine may not be professionally insured
- the person undertaking the scan could be ignoring the fundamental safety guidelines set out by 
  the British Medical Ultrasound Society (BMUS) and Society of Radiographers (SoR)

Question 3

How should I prepare for my scan?

Accepted Answer

If you are in early pregnancy we recommend that you attend with a full bladder as this can make it easier to obtain clear images of your baby.

For scans later in pregnancy you do not need to have a full bladder, but please ensure you are well hydrated and had something to eat before hand.

Question 4

Can I have a scan before 6 weeks?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, we only offer early pregnancy viability scans from 6 weeks gestation. This is because 6 weeks is the first opportunity to see your baby's heartbeat on scan (typically with an internal scan). If you are under 6 weeks it is unlikely that we will be able to identify a heartbeat. This may cause unnecessary upset or confusion to you or require a referral to NHS providers for follow-up assessment.

However, we understand that dates may be difficult to work out or be confusing. We are more than happy to help you understand your dates and book your scan at an appropriate time.

You can use the below calculator to work out your gestation if you wish.

https://obwheel.quartertone.net

If you are still unsure then please contact us and we can help.

Question 5

I'm not sure how many week pregnant I am. Can you help me work it out?

Accepted Answer

We normally undertake ultrasound scans from 6 weeks gestation at the earliest. This is because it can be difficult to visualise your pregnancy before this time.

If you are unsure of your gestation, please use the below resource to calculate the number of weeks of pregnancy prior to booking your scan.

https://obwheel.quartertone.net

If you are still unsure then please reach out and we can help.

Question 6

Do you charge extra for twin pregnancies?

Accepted Answer

At The Pregnancy Experts we never charge extra to scan twins. However, the appointment time may be longer for twins.

Question 7

What if I have pain or bleeding during my pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

If you are experiencing pain or bleeding you should contact the Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit (if you are under 18 weeks) or Antenatal Triage (after 18 weeks) to arrange a clinical assessment. You should not book a private ultrasound in this situation.
You may be experiencing a medical emergency and waiting for a private ultrasound may delay clinical assessment which could potentially be harmful to your baby.

Question 8

What if I am experiencing reduced fetal movements or a change in the pattern of my baby's movements?

Accepted Answer

If you are experiencing a recent change in the pattern of your baby's movements or they are reduced you should contact the Antenatal Triage for further assessment. A change in the pattern of your movements can sometimes be associated with a problem with your baby's health that needs urgent assessment . Waiting for a private ultrasound may delay clinical assessment which could potentially be harmful to your baby. 
You should not book a private ultrasound if you have a recent change in your baby's movements.

Question 9

How many people can come to my scan?

Accepted Answer

The clinical scan rooms at The Pregnancy Experts are able to accommodate the pregnant woman and 4 further people during the scan procedure. 
However, following your scan you will be able to review all of the images and videos taken during your scan on a large screen in our viewing area. Up to 6 people can attend for the viewing if you wish. The images will also be electronically sent to you to share as you wish.

Question 10

Are there any age restrictions?

Accepted Answer

We are regulated by the CQC to provide services to adults aged 18 years and above. Therefore, if you are younger than 18 then, unfortunately, we cannot provide scans or blood tests for you.

Question 11

I have significant mobility issues - is the clinic suitable for me?

Accepted Answer

Our scan room is locate do the 1st floor of the clinic, up a set of stairs. Therefore, if you or any of your attending family have significant mobility issues (such as unable to climb stairs) then unfortunately our clinic may not be suitable for your needs.

Our blood/consultation rooms are on the ground floor.

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