What happens at a 12 weeks scan

[Sarahmains40]

Hi sorry I sound a little stupid. But this is my first child and I kind of just thought it is a chance to see your baby.

A week tomorrow I have my 12 scan and I have opted out for testing of downs etc. Only because I wouldn't do any thing if there was a problem.

I know the scan is a dating scan and at first I was excited now I feel quite scared. As if they will tell me there is no baby. Partly because GP didn't do a pregnancy test.


Do I take the purple notes with me with all my details etc my midwife said to take this to her but not sure about scan.

Is it your midwife doing the scan ?

[fluffandnonsense]

No your midwife won't be doing the scan it will be a trained sonographer so you won't have previously met them. Yes take your notes you won't be seen without them.

The purpose of the scan is to a) check that baby is there and has a heartbeat b) is developing according to dates c) give you an estimated due date and d) perform screening if you agree to it.

Try not to worry yourself too much, for most people it is a lovely chance to get a peek at baby but also be aware that some people go to this scan and discover they have had a missed miscarriage and the baby has died or not developed properly.

Remember to drink plenty and have a full bladder before you go to ensure they can get a good picture.

Good luck I'm sure you will be fine!

[Blondie276]

Don't worry- I had no clue what to expect either!
Take your notes def as they use these and write inside.
My 12 scan checked the baby looked ok, was the correct size and heart was pounding away. They also measure the amniotic fluid at the back of the neck but if your not being downs tested they may not do this.
And this is almost the first conformation you get that you are actually pregnant so I wouldn't worry! My gp didn't test but of there was an issue with results from midwife app they would tell you! ( they would have measured the rise and levels of hormones!)

[SomethingOnce]

MN's very own 12-week scan page

[Spacefrog35]

Little bit of advice. Don't go to the loo immediately before you leave for hospital but equally don't get there bursting! I had to wait an hour for my scan which was 'uncomfortable' !

Don't feel silly about being nervous, I think most people are but it's amazing & hopefully your sonographer will be happy to point things out to you like heart, brain, spine and even little feet & hands

Good luck

[cazza240314]

I had mine a few weeks ago and I saw 3 different people whilst I was there. First I had the scan which people have already written about. Then I saw a support worker who did BP/urine/height/weight etc. Then I saw a student midwife who just looked over the notes, said bloods etc were ok and did we have any questions. She also gave a bit of advice about what not to eat. Think we were there about an hour and a half in total! I also had the same fears about a baby not being in there, the sonographer said that was quite common!!

Good luck!!