12 week scan - do I need a full bladder?

[tacosplease]

I have my 12 week scan on Tuesday at the Fetal Medicine Centre, and will also get my Harmony blood test results back. I’m starting to feel really nervous!

One thing I wasn’t sure about was whether I need a full bladder for the scan? I had a ten week scan recently and it wasn’t mentioned then, but I don’t know if the 12 week scan is different?

Thanks!

I was advised to have one

Ah, just spotted this on the FMC email: “it is not necessary to have a full bladder for any of our examinations.”

Sounds like I won’t need to be gulping the water after all!

Your so lucky 😊 I had to have a full bladder even at my 20 week scan and was so uncomfortable

Our trust say a full bladder. It can easily be emptied if needed.

I think it depends on how modern the equipment is.

Oh lucky you. I nearly burst during both of my 12 week scans (full bladder requested in appointment letters) and both times was sent to do "half a wee" ... easier said than done with my pathetic pelvic floor!!

I was meant to have a full bladder for every scan (9 weeks, 12 weeks and 20weeks) and haven't managed any! I prepare with a full bladder but just can't hold it. I was told as long as you're well hydrated your bladder will refill quickly if you need it to. It's not be mentioned at any of mine. Try to have a full bladder but don't worry too much if you have to go!

For mine I was first asked to give a urine sample by one nurse, and then another nurse did the scan and told me I should have a full bladder! Go figure! I said I've just given my pee away

I went for a private scan at 9 weeks and didn’t need a full bladder. In fact she asked me to empty my bladder before my scan. The NHS asks you to have a full bladder for your 12 week scan as I believe the equipment isn’t as good and they need your bladder to be full to have a good view.

Sonographer here - You need a Relatively full bladder for the 12 week scan unless they are doing it transvaginally which I can’t really see as you can’t get a nuchal measurement easily transvaginally. So yes full bladder, but not full to bursting as that’s no good either.

I didn't need to & at my 20 week scan I was actually asked to empty my bladder..to my relief!

I was advised to for private scans though.

My 12 wk scan letter said I didn't need a full bladder but my 12 week scan does 😩 I always need to wee when I'm nervous 😂

I think they need to change the wording on scan letters. Having worked in a maternity scan clinic, a FULL bladder is as bad as an empty one. Its helpful to have a moderately full bladder to move everything forward,but not full to the brim. Think "ooh i could do with a wee" rather than "omg im going to pee myself"

Only if you're fat

Go with a full bladder - it can always be emptied if needed

Good luck !