Pregnancy ultrasound · 6–11 weeks · London

Private Early Pregnancy Scan London

A calm, sonographer-led early pregnancy ultrasound for 6–11 weeks, designed to confirm pregnancy location, assess viability when developmentally appropriate, estimate dates and provide reassurance when symptoms or uncertainty are causing worry.

£149 early pregnancy scan
6–11 weeks first trimester
No GP referral direct booking
Report included
6–11 weeksDesigned for first-trimester reassurance and early viability assessment.
£149Includes ultrasound assessment, explanation, images and report.
No referralBook directly online, by phone or by WhatsApp.
Same-day reportWritten report normally issued the same day or within 24 hours.
2 clinicsCentral London and St Albans, open 7 days a week.
Quick answer

Early Pregnancy Scan at a glance

London Private Ultrasound offers a private Early Pregnancy Scan for 6–11 weeks at £149. The scan checks whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus, assesses early viability and fetal heartbeat when developmentally appropriate, measures the pregnancy to estimate dates, looks for possible causes of pain or bleeding where visible, and provides ultrasound images plus a written report. No GP referral is required, and booking opens securely in Semble in a new tab.

What is included

A focused first-trimester ultrasound with clear reporting

The early pregnancy scan is designed to answer the questions patients most commonly have in the first trimester: is the pregnancy in the right place, is it developing as expected for the dates, and what should happen next?

1

Pregnancy location

Assessment of whether the pregnancy appears to be located within the uterus, with urgent guidance if findings or symptoms raise concern.

2

Viability and heartbeat

Fetal heartbeat assessment when developmentally appropriate and visible for the exact stage of pregnancy.

3

Dating and measurements

Measurements such as crown-rump length are used where appropriate to estimate gestational age and likely due date.

4

Symptoms and next steps

Assessment can help investigate bleeding, pain, uncertainty about dates, previous miscarriage or previous ectopic pregnancy.

Clinical detail

What the sonographer assesses during the scan

The scan is tailored to your gestational age, symptoms and clinical history. Very early pregnancies can sometimes need a repeat scan or blood tests if findings are too early to confirm.

LocationChecks whether an intrauterine pregnancy is visible and whether urgent assessment is needed.
Pregnancy sacAssesses early structures such as gestational sac and yolk sac where visible.
Embryo / fetal poleAssesses embryo development where visible for gestational age.
HeartbeatAssessed when developmentally appropriate and technically visible.
MeasurementsCrown-rump length and other measurements where suitable for dating.
Multiple pregnancyChecks for single or multiple pregnancy when visible.
UterusAssesses relevant uterine findings that may affect interpretation.
OvariesChecks ovaries where relevant, including corpus luteum or cysts.
Free fluid / concernsLooks for visible features that may need urgent or follow-up care.
Important clinical note

If the pregnancy is very early, the scan may be inconclusive even when the pregnancy is developing normally. In that situation, the safest next step may be repeat ultrasound and/or blood tests.

How it works

Your appointment journey

The appointment is designed to be calm, private and clear, with consent discussed before any scan approach is used.

Step 1Book

Choose your appointment

Book securely through Semble, or call the clinic if you are unsure whether an early pregnancy scan, ectopic scan or reassurance scan is most appropriate.

Step 2History

Pre-scan conversation

The sonographer confirms your last menstrual period or assisted conception dates, symptoms, previous pregnancy history and any relevant blood test or scan information.

Step 3Scan

Ultrasound assessment

A transabdominal scan may be attempted, but before 9 weeks a transvaginal scan may be recommended for clearer detail. Your comfort, dignity and consent are prioritised throughout.

Step 4Explain

Verbal explanation

The sonographer explains the scan findings within the scope of ultrasound practice and answers your questions as clearly and sensitively as possible.

Step 5Report

Written report and guidance

You receive a written report and images. If findings are uncertain or concerning, the report will support GP, Early Pregnancy Unit, specialist or emergency follow-up.

When to book

Common reasons patients choose an early scan

Many patients book because they want reassurance, have symptoms, are unsure about dates or have a previous difficult pregnancy history.

Reassurance and dating

  • Confirm pregnancy progress from 6 weeks
  • Estimate gestational age and due date
  • Check for single or multiple pregnancy
  • Gain clarity before NHS booking appointments

Symptoms and concerns

  • Vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Pelvic, abdominal or lower back pain
  • Reduced pregnancy symptoms
  • Extreme anxiety or uncertainty

Previous history

  • Previous miscarriage
  • Previous ectopic pregnancy
  • Assisted conception or fertility treatment
  • Need for documented early ultrasound findings

Urgent symptoms should not wait for a routine scan

If you have severe one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, collapse, fever or feel acutely unwell, seek urgent medical care through 999, A&E or an Early Pregnancy Unit rather than booking a routine private appointment.

Scan approach

Transabdominal and transvaginal options

The safest and clearest approach depends on how many weeks pregnant you are and what needs to be assessed.

Transabdominal ultrasound

Performed with the probe on the lower abdomen. It is non-invasive and may be suitable later in the early pregnancy window, depending on gestational age, body habitus and image quality.

  • No internal probe
  • Often easier for patients emotionally
  • May be less detailed before 9 weeks

Transvaginal ultrasound

Uses a small covered probe placed into the vagina. It is commonly recommended before 9 weeks because it can provide clearer early pregnancy detail when the pregnancy is very small.

  • Consent discussed before proceeding
  • Probe cover and sterile gel used
  • You may stop or pause at any time

Consent, dignity and comfort

If a transvaginal scan is recommended, the sonographer will explain why, what it involves and what alternatives exist. You remain in control throughout the appointment.

Transparent pricing

Early Pregnancy Scan price

The page uses the confirmed current early pregnancy scan price and opens booking directly in Semble in a new tab. No embedded iframe is used.

May be recommended

Follow-up scan

Only if needed

If findings are too early to confirm, a repeat scan may be recommended at a clinically appropriate interval.

Escalation

Blood tests or referral

Clinical pathway

If the scan raises concern, the sonographer may advise GP, specialist, Early Pregnancy Unit or emergency follow-up.

Private vs NHS

How a private early pregnancy scan fits with your NHS care

A private scan can provide reassurance and documentation when you want answers sooner, but it does not replace NHS antenatal care or emergency assessment.

Private early pregnancy scan

  • Book directly without GP referral
  • Useful from 6–11 weeks
  • Verbal explanation and written report
  • Partners or support person usually welcome

NHS pregnancy care

  • Essential for antenatal screening and maternity booking
  • Emergency assessment for severe pain or bleeding
  • Early Pregnancy Unit care when clinically indicated
  • Routine pathway continues even after a private scan
Pregnancy ultrasound team

Specialist early pregnancy scanning in a calm, regulated clinic

Your scan is performed and reported by experienced ultrasound specialists. Female ultrasound clinicians are available on request, and clinical governance is supported by the London Private Ultrasound leadership team.

Governance signals
  • CQC registered clinic
  • ICO registered
  • BMUS/HCPC-registered ultrasound clinicians
  • GMC-registered medical governance
  • Female sonographer available on request
Ashleigh Austin, Consultant Sonographer at London Private Ultrasound Female sonographer

Ashleigh Austin

Consultant Sonographer · HCPC-registered

Advanced Practitioner Sonographer supporting women’s health and pregnancy ultrasound pathways, including early pregnancy reassurance scans.

Mrs Hosna Rashidi, BMUS-registered female Consultant Sonographer at London Private Ultrasound Female sonographer

Mrs Hosna Rashidi

Consultant Sonographer · BMUS-registered

Experienced female ultrasound clinician supporting private pregnancy and women’s health ultrasound services.

Dr Babak Soleimanpour, Medical Director and GP at London Private Ultrasound Medical governance

Dr Babak Soleimanpour

Medical Director · GP · GMC-registered

Provides medical governance, GP oversight and clinical sign-off for patient-facing pathways and safety information.

Mr Pedram Aghaei, ultrasound consultant and medical writer at London Private Ultrasound Clinical editorial

Mr Pedram Aghaei

Co-Founder · Medical Writer

Medical writing and content editorial support for London Private Ultrasound patient information pages.

Female sonographer requests

For early pregnancy and women’s health ultrasound, a female sonographer can be requested when booking. Availability can vary by date and clinic location, so please mention this in your booking notes or contact the team before attending.

Clinical governance

Clinical sign-off by Dr Babak Soleimanpour. Medical writing and content editorial by Mr Pedram Aghaei. Last reviewed: 17/06/2026.

This page is general patient information and does not replace emergency care, NHS antenatal care or personalised medical advice. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, collapse, fever or feel acutely unwell, seek urgent medical help.
Frequently asked questions

Early Pregnancy Scan FAQ

Native accordion FAQs are mirrored 1:1 in the FAQPage schema for SEO and AI-answer compatibility.

What is an early pregnancy scan?

An early pregnancy scan is a private ultrasound assessment performed in the first trimester, usually between 6 and 11 weeks. It checks the location of the pregnancy, looks for signs of viability when developmentally appropriate, measures the pregnancy and helps estimate gestational age.

How much does the Early Pregnancy Scan cost?

The Early Pregnancy Scan is £149. The price includes the ultrasound assessment, verbal explanation within the scope of ultrasound practice, ultrasound images and a written report.

When can I have an early pregnancy scan?

This scan is designed for 6 to 11 weeks of pregnancy. If you are unsure how many weeks pregnant you are, the sonographer will use your dates and ultrasound measurements to guide the assessment.

Can you see a heartbeat at 6 weeks?

A fetal heartbeat may be visible from around 6 weeks when the pregnancy is developing as expected, but this depends on exact gestational age, ovulation timing, scan approach and image quality. If it is too early, a follow-up scan may be advised.

Does the scan confirm the pregnancy is in the right place?

The scan aims to confirm whether the pregnancy is located within the uterus. This is important because an ectopic pregnancy is a medical concern and needs urgent clinical assessment.

Can the scan rule out ectopic pregnancy?

An ultrasound can help identify features that suggest an intrauterine or ectopic pregnancy, but very early pregnancies may occasionally be too small to fully confirm. If findings are uncertain or symptoms are concerning, urgent referral or blood tests may be recommended.

Do I need a GP referral?

No GP referral is required. You can book directly online, by phone or by WhatsApp. If you have previous scan reports, fertility treatment dates, blood test results or hospital letters, please bring them.

Will the scan be abdominal or transvaginal?

A transabdominal scan may be attempted, but before 9 weeks a transvaginal scan is often recommended for clearer early pregnancy detail. The sonographer will explain the approach and you can ask to pause or stop at any time.

Is a transvaginal scan safe in early pregnancy?

A transvaginal ultrasound is commonly used in early pregnancy because it provides better detail when the pregnancy is very small. It is performed with a covered probe and sterile gel, with attention to comfort, dignity and consent.

Is ultrasound safe for my baby?

Diagnostic ultrasound does not use ionising radiation. The scan is performed using standard safety principles, including keeping exposure as low as reasonably achievable while obtaining the information needed.

What symptoms are common reasons to book?

Common reasons include bleeding, pelvic or abdominal pain, previous miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, uncertainty about dates, reduced pregnancy symptoms, fertility treatment history or anxiety and need for reassurance.

What will be included in my report?

Your report usually includes relevant measurements, pregnancy location where visible, gestational age estimate, estimated due date where appropriate, fetal heartbeat assessment when developmentally appropriate, ultrasound images and recommendations if follow-up is needed.

Can you tell if it is twins?

The scan can usually identify single or multiple pregnancies when they are visible for the gestational age. Very early scans can occasionally require follow-up to confirm details.

Will I get pictures?

Yes. Ultrasound images are included. The team will provide representative images for your records and a written report.

How long does the scan take?

The ultrasound examination itself is usually short, often around 5 to 10 minutes, but you should allow additional time for check-in, history, explanation and questions.

When will I get the report?

The findings are explained verbally after the scan within the sonographer’s scope of practice, and a written report is normally provided the same day or within 24 hours.

Can my partner or family attend?

A partner or support person can usually attend. Please contact the clinic in advance if you have specific support, accessibility or chaperone requirements.

What happens if the scan shows a concern?

The sonographer will explain the findings clearly and advise on next steps. Depending on the findings, this may include follow-up ultrasound, blood tests, GP review or urgent referral to an Early Pregnancy Unit or A&E.

When should I seek urgent medical help instead of booking privately?

Seek urgent medical help if you have severe pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, collapse, fever or feel acutely unwell. These symptoms may require emergency assessment rather than a routine private scan.

Can this scan replace NHS pregnancy care?

No. A private early pregnancy scan is an additional reassurance or diagnostic ultrasound service. It does not replace NHS antenatal care, screening pathways, emergency care or maternity booking appointments.

Book today

Book your Early Pregnancy Scan

For 6–11 weeks, £149, with no GP referral required. Booking opens securely in Semble in a new tab.

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