Is 12 week scan too soon other than dating/ checking heartbeat?

[TillyDevon]

I’ve been quite worried this pregnancy as am nearly 43, just want reassurance baby might be healthy and ok. My first scan is next week (I’m guessing I’m nearly 12 weeks but may be more).
Presumably it will be too soon for much reassurance ? as well as my age I am conscious heart defects can run in the family

Congratulations! They also check for a few genetic conditions during the 12 week scan I believe.

They can check quite a lot from the 12 week scan. It's when they check for Down syndrome and things like spina bifida. Tgey check where you placenta is. They also check for things like twins. Tbh I don't think they'd do them unless they got a decent amount of information from it.

Oh thank you, I’m so glad there might be an idea about Down Syndrome too as I’ve been reading up about this to know what to expect in case. And will feel relieved if baby healthy and we can tell our (much older) dc and family soon

They can do quite a few checks at 12 week scan. They'll take bloods to check risk of downs, Pataus and Edwards syndrome, they also did a detailed scan and checked baby's brain, heart, etc. Sadly we didn't have a positive outcome but it's good to know these things can be spotted early on

Wishing you all the best 💕

Oh Bellsjp that is so hard; thank you for your best wishes and sending you lots too and hope you’ve had lots of support and kindness around you