Eight week scan at Fetal Medicine Centre - what to expect?

[tacosplease]

I’ve just booked an eight-week scan at the Fetal Medicine Centre in London. I understand from their website that it’s an internal scan. I was wondering if anyone else has had one of these and what to expect - how long does it take, does it hurt, do they give you the results then and there, is it just a matter of detecting a heartbeat or is there anything else they look for at this early stage?

Thanks!

Hi I had an 8 week scan not there but imagine similar process. The internal scan didn't hurt when it went in. They checked for the heartbeat and that the baby was growing in the right space. They then did a sweep round to check the ovaries.It was mildly uncomfortable whilst they moved the probe around but not painful. I could see the baby's head and body. Was amazing to see hope it goes well.

What was your reason for booking this?

@MildThing I’m six weeks pregnant and have had barely any symptoms - the occasional wave of nausea lasting for two minutes and that’s been practically it. I’m driving myself mad wondering if there’s anything actually in there and if it’s all ok, so thought it would be good to find out what’s happening to (hopefully) get some reassurance.

Also, it was a surprise pregnancy and I know it sounds strange, but I’m really struggling to believe that it’s real - especially given the lack of symptoms.

Just to reassure you, I find smears and anything involving a speculum absolutely excruciating. However, I had quite a few internal scans during and before pregnancy (assisted conception), and they were all absolutely fine. The wand is quite narrow, and the sonographers are very gentle. You will be fine!

Thanks @Tolleshunt! Yes I’m not keen on smear tests either, so that’s good to know.

Do people take their DHs into the room when having an eight-week scan or do they wait outside?

You take them in! Btw, the whole undressing thing and inserting the wand is done very respectfully. You will be covered with a disposable blanket thingy.

They are really lovely and professional at the FMC. Your DH can go into the room. The internal scans are painless. I had regular scans there and also the Harmony test, which is a blood test, there which checked for any abnormalities and lets you know gender.

I went to the FMC for a 10 & 12 week scan as part of the harmony test, and also for 20 week scan- all abdominal.
I had an earlier scan somewhere else at 7 weeks which was vaginal- nothing to worry about you will be covered and it’s not painful or anything. I think at 8 weeks it’s likely to be vaginal rather than abdominal. The FMC are great, very professional and supportive. Your husband can be with you :)
Hope it goes okay

There's nothing to worry about OP. Completely painless and the probe is very thin. As a PP said, it does feel a little strange when they swoop it around to look at your ovaries but it doesn't hurt at all.