Harley Street Medical District · Central London & St Albans
Private Reassurance Scan in London
A private reassurance scan at London Private Ultrasound costs £149 and is available from 6 to 17 weeks of pregnancy. It checks your baby’s heartbeat, movement and basic growth, and confirms single or multiple pregnancy where visible. No GP referral, same-day images and a same-day written report.
The wait between NHS pregnancy appointments can feel long, especially after spotting, cramps, previous loss or IVF. A reassurance scan gives you an extra check-in on your own timeline — a calm, focused look at your baby’s wellbeing without needing to meet a clinical threshold first.
- £149
- 6–17 weeks
- Heartbeat & movement
- No GP referral
- Same-day report
- Open 7 days a week
Reassurance Scan at a Glance: Cost, Coverage and Timings
| Price | £149 · all-inclusive, single appointment |
|---|---|
| Suitable stage | 6 to 17 weeks of pregnancy |
| Checks | Heartbeat and movement where appropriate · basic growth measurements · single or multiple pregnancy where visible |
| Not included | Detailed anatomy screening — that’s covered by the Anomaly Scan at 18–24 weeks |
| Duration | About 15 minutes, plus check-in and explanation |
| Approach | Transabdominal usually; transvaginal sometimes discussed if very early |
| Preparation | Full bladder usually helpful under 16 weeks · nearly empty after 16 weeks |
| GP referral | Not required — book directly |
| Results | Verbal on the day · same-day digital report with images |
| Locations | 27 Welbeck Street, Central London W1G 8EN · 54–56 Victoria Street, St Albans AL1 3HZ |
| Availability | 7 days a week, 9am–7pm · same-day appointments often available |
Book Your Reassurance Scan
Same-day appointments are often available at both clinics. Call 020 7101 3377 first if you’d like advice on which scan suits your stage of pregnancy.
Reassurance Scan
Heartbeat, movement, basic measurements and a single or multiple pregnancy check in one appointment.
- £149 all-inclusive
- Suitable from 6–17 weeks
- Female sonographer on request
- Findings explained on the day
- Same-day digital report
- No GP referral required
- Images to take home
- Central London & St Albans
- Open 7 days a week
Calm Reassurance With Clear Ultrasound Reporting
The reassurance scan is designed for expectant parents who want clarity between routine scans, after mild symptoms, following IVF or previous pregnancy loss, or before travel and important events.
Heartbeat & movement
The sonographer assesses fetal heartbeat and movement where appropriate for your pregnancy stage and technical visibility.
Basic measurements
Basic growth measurements are taken and compared with your expected dates or previous scan information where available.
Single or multiple
The scan checks whether a single or multiple pregnancy is visible, depending on gestational age and image quality.
Images & report
You receive representative ultrasound images, a verbal summary and a same-day digital report with relevant findings.
Position & fluid
Where clinically relevant, the sonographer also notes the baby’s position and gives a general impression of fluid around the baby.
Next steps
If anything needs a closer look, you’re told what it means and given a clear, specific next step — never left to guess.
Common Reasons Patients Book a Reassurance Scan
Many expectant parents book reassurance ultrasound for peace of mind, symptom review or an extra check between scheduled appointments — there’s no single right reason to have one.
Symptoms or uncertainty
Spotting, cramps, mild discomfort, anxiety about pregnancy symptoms, or uncertainty after a previous scan’s findings.
Between routine scans
An extra ultrasound between NHS appointments to check heartbeat, movement and basic pregnancy progress.
Additional reassurance
After IVF, previous pregnancy loss, before travel, or before an important event where reassurance would help.
When private reassurance is not enough. If you have heavy bleeding, severe abdominal or pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, collapse, fever, fluid leakage, reduced movements later in pregnancy, or feel seriously unwell, seek urgent NHS maternity, Early Pregnancy Unit, A&E or emergency care rather than waiting for a private appointment.
Transabdominal vs Transvaginal: Which Approach Is Used?
Most reassurance scans are performed over the tummy. A transvaginal approach is only discussed, with your consent, if you’re very early and clearer detail would help.
| Transabdominal (usual) | Transvaginal (sometimes) | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Gel applied to the tummy, probe moved gently over the skin | A slim probe gives a closer view; always discussed and consented first |
| Bladder prep | Full bladder usually helpful under 16 weeks; nearly empty after 16 weeks | No bladder preparation needed |
| When it’s used | Default approach for most gestational ages | Very early pregnancy where abdominal views aren’t yet clear enough |
| Your control | You can ask questions, request a chaperone and stop at any time | Same — nothing proceeds without your consent |
Full bladder or empty? For a transabdominal scan, a full bladder is usually helpful under 16 weeks because it lifts the uterus into clearer view. After 16 weeks, a nearly empty bladder is usually advised. The clinic will confirm exactly what to do when you book.
What Happens During Your Reassurance Scan
The appointment is designed to be calm, private and informative, with the approach explained before the ultrasound begins.
Choose your appointment
Book securely online, or call if you’re unsure whether a reassurance scan or another pregnancy scan suits your stage.
Follow bladder guidance
Full bladder usually helpful under 16 weeks; nearly empty bladder usually advised after 16 weeks.
Ultrasound assessment
Warm gel is applied and the sonographer scans over your tummy. A transvaginal approach may sometimes be discussed if you’re very early.
Explanation & same-day report
Findings are discussed after the scan and a digital report with relevant images is emailed to you the same day.
How Much Does a Private Reassurance Scan Cost in London?
Private pregnancy ultrasound in the UK typically runs from around £100 to £300 depending on the type of scan, the stage of pregnancy and the clinic. Reassurance and early viability scans usually sit at the lower end of that range; ours is £149, all-inclusive.
What the £149 Reassurance Scan covers
| Ultrasound assessment with a consultant sonographer | Included |
| Heartbeat & movement assessment where appropriate | Included |
| Basic growth measurements | Included |
| Single or multiple pregnancy check | Included |
| Representative ultrasound images | Included |
| Verbal explanation on the day | Included |
| Same-day written digital report | Included |
| Total | £149 |
No separate consultation fee, no hidden add-ons — the quoted price is what you pay.
Is it worth it? Many parents find a reassurance scan worthwhile for peace of mind between NHS appointments, after symptoms such as spotting or cramping, following previous pregnancy loss or IVF, or simply to see the heartbeat sooner. It’s an optional additional check, not a replacement for NHS antenatal care.
An Additional Check, Not a Replacement for Maternity Care
Reassurance scans outside the standard NHS dating and anomaly appointments aren’t routinely available on the NHS, and are usually offered only where there’s a specific clinical concern, assessed via your GP, midwife or an Early Pregnancy Unit.
Private reassurance scan
Booked directly, on your timeline — useful for a calm check-in, fast appointment, images and report, or extra reassurance between scheduled appointments.
NHS antenatal care
Essential for routine maternity booking, national screening, anomaly scanning, emergency care and specialist obstetric pathways.
When to use which
Use a private scan for reassurance and timing flexibility. Use NHS or A&E for bleeding, severe pain, or any acute symptom needing urgent assessment.
Reassurance Scan: Frequently Asked Questions
Straightforward answers to the questions we’re asked most often — including a few people search for before they even find us.
What is a reassurance scan?
A reassurance scan is a private ultrasound check for 6 to 17 weeks of pregnancy that assesses your baby’s heartbeat and movement where appropriate, takes basic growth measurements, confirms single or multiple pregnancy where visible, and gives you a same-day verbal summary and written report.
How much does a reassurance scan cost in London?
At London Private Ultrasound the Reassurance Scan is £149, all-inclusive of the ultrasound assessment, verbal explanation, representative images and a same-day written report. Private pregnancy ultrasound elsewhere in London commonly runs from around £150 to over £250 depending on the stage of pregnancy and what’s included.
Can I get an early reassurance scan on the NHS?
Routine NHS reassurance scans outside the standard dating and anomaly scan appointments aren’t generally available, and are usually offered only where there’s a specific clinical concern such as bleeding or pain, assessed via your GP, midwife or an Early Pregnancy Unit. A private reassurance scan is booked directly, without needing to meet that clinical threshold.
How much does a private ultrasound scan cost in the UK?
Private pregnancy ultrasound scans in the UK typically range from around £100 to £300 depending on the type of scan, the stage of pregnancy and the clinic. A reassurance or early viability scan is usually at the lower end of that range, while detailed anomaly or 3D/4D scans cost more.
Is it worth getting an early pregnancy scan?
Many parents find an early or reassurance scan worthwhile for peace of mind between NHS appointments, after symptoms such as spotting or cramping, following previous pregnancy loss or IVF, or simply to see the heartbeat sooner. It’s an optional additional check rather than a replacement for NHS antenatal care.
When can I book a reassurance scan?
The Reassurance Scan is available from 6 to 17 weeks of pregnancy. It’s commonly booked between routine NHS appointments, after spotting or cramps, after previous pregnancy loss or IVF, or before travel and important events.
What does the scan include?
The scan includes fetal heartbeat and movement assessment where appropriate, basic growth measurements, confirmation of single or multiple pregnancy where visible, ultrasound images, verbal feedback and a same-day digital report.
Will I see the heartbeat?
The sonographer assesses the heartbeat if it’s expected and visible for your gestational age. In very early pregnancy the heartbeat may not yet be visible and a follow-up scan may be recommended.
Can the scan check for twins?
Yes. The scan can usually identify a single or multiple pregnancy when it’s visible for the stage of pregnancy. Very early pregnancies can occasionally need a repeat assessment to confirm details.
Can I book if I have spotting or cramps?
Many patients book reassurance scans after spotting, cramps or anxiety between routine appointments. If symptoms are severe, bleeding is heavy, pain is significant, or you feel unwell, urgent NHS care or A&E assessment is safer than waiting for a private scan.
Can this scan rule out miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy?
A reassurance scan can give information about pregnancy progression, heartbeat and location where visible, but interpretation depends on gestational age and clinical context. Severe pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, collapse or heavy bleeding should be treated as urgent symptoms requiring emergency assessment rather than a routine private scan.
Is the scan abdominal or transvaginal?
The scan is usually performed transabdominally, on top of the tummy. If you’re very early, a transvaginal scan may sometimes be discussed because it can provide clearer detail. The sonographer explains the approach and asks for consent.
Do I need a full bladder?
For a transabdominal scan, a full bladder is usually helpful under 16 weeks. After 16 weeks a nearly empty bladder may be advised. The clinic can give specific preparation advice when you book.
Is ultrasound safe during pregnancy?
Diagnostic ultrasound does not use ionising radiation. The scan is performed using recognised safety principles, keeping exposure as low as reasonably achievable while obtaining the information needed.
How long does the scan take?
The ultrasound examination is usually completed within around 15 minutes, depending on gestational age, symptoms, baby’s position and image quality. Please allow additional time for check-in and explanation.
When will I get the results?
The sonographer discusses the findings with you after the scan. A digital report with relevant images is emailed to you the same day as your appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
No routine GP referral is needed for direct private booking. Bring any previous scan reports, IVF dates, hospital letters or NHS maternity notes to help with clinical context.
Can I request a female sonographer?
A female sonographer can be requested when booking. Availability depends on date, clinic and rota, so mention this in your booking notes or call before attending.
Can this replace my NHS pregnancy scans?
No. A private reassurance scan is an additional check and does not replace NHS antenatal care, maternity booking, screening scans, emergency care or specialist obstetric assessment.
Do London clinics offer early pregnancy scans?
Yes, several private clinics across London offer early pregnancy and reassurance scans, usually from around 6 weeks, alongside dating, NIPT, anomaly and gender scans. Availability, exact gestational windows and pricing vary by clinic, so it’s worth checking the specific scan and stage you need before booking.
Pregnancy Ultrasound Team and Governance
Your scan is delivered by experienced pregnancy and women’s health ultrasound clinicians, supported by clinical governance and patient-information review from London Private Ultrasound’s leadership team.
Ashleigh Austin
Consultant SonographerPregnancy and women’s health ultrasound, with a calm, patient-centred scanning approach.
Mrs Hosna Rashidi
Consultant SonographerFemale consultant sonographer supporting pregnancy and women’s health ultrasound services.
Dr Babak Soleimanpour
Medical Director & GPMRCGP · DRCOG · GMC 6060555 · Clinical governance and sign-off.
Mr Pedram Aghaei
Co-Founder & Medical WriterMedical writing and content editorial for London Private Ultrasound patient information.
Private Reassurance Scan Near You: Central London and St Albans
Both clinics run the full range of pregnancy ultrasound, seven days a week, with the same sonographers, the same £149 price and the same same-day reporting.
Central London — Harley Street Medical District
27 Welbeck Street, London W1G 8EN
A few minutes’ walk from Bond Street, Oxford Circus and Marylebone, and easily reached from north, east and south London on the Central, Jubilee, Elizabeth and Bakerloo lines.
St Albans — Hertfordshire
54–56 Victoria Street, St Albans AL1 3HZ
Close to St Albans City station, convenient if you’re travelling in from Hertfordshire, north London or the M25 corridor and would rather not come into central London.
Other Scans From Our London Pregnancy Clinic
If your dates, symptoms or stage point somewhere else, these are the pregnancy scans people most often book instead of, or alongside, a reassurance scan.
Early Pregnancy Scan
For 6–11 weeks — pregnancy location, viability and dating in one appointment.
Dating Scan
For 8–22 weeks — confirms gestational age and estimated due date.
NIPT + Scan
From 10 weeks + 4 days — genetic screening alongside an ultrasound assessment.
Anomaly Scan
At 18–24 weeks — a detailed structural and anatomy assessment of your baby.
Growth & Wellbeing Scan
A later-pregnancy assessment of fetal growth, movement, placenta and amniotic fluid.
All Pregnancy Scans
Compare the pregnancy scan timeline and choose the service suited to your stage.
Medical disclaimer. This page is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice or NHS antenatal care. A reassurance scan is an assessment service, not an emergency service. Seek urgent NHS maternity, Early Pregnancy Unit or A&E care for heavy bleeding, severe pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, collapse, fever or reduced fetal movements later in pregnancy. No screening scan can exclude every possible finding.