Recommendations for private scan

[KokoNights]

Hi all,

This is my first time pregnant and I'm about 6 weeks along. The thought of waiting till 12 weeks for a scan is making me anxious. I'm not experiencing many of the 'classic' pregnancy symptoms (yet) except sore breasts, and I would rather know what's happening either way sooner or later, because I have a planned holiday with some girlfriends and my brother's wedding coming up, so I feel I'll have to disclose my pregnancy so that people aren't plying me with alcohol and expecting me to be the life and soul of the party. Obviously I only want to disclose a pregnancy if it's looking viable.

There seem to be quite a few providers that offer private scans. What should I look out for? Is there a 'best' time to go? (e.g. should I wait until 8 weeks). I'm in London, so if anyone has any specific recommendations that would be massively appreciated!! Thank you xx

Congratulations! I've used Window to the Womb in two different branches in Surrey, once at 9 weeks and once at 16 weeks. Found them really good both times. There is also Ultrasound Direct but the reviews for them in my nearest branch (near Heathrow) weren't so good.

I would say wait until at least 8 weeks as heartbeat detection can be hit and miss before then I believe. Also internal scan is recommended before 10 weeks as it can be difficult to detect externally at that stage so that's worth bearing in mind if you feel apprehensive about internal scans at all x

Hi @KokoNights I don't have any recommendations but I would also say wait until you're at least 8 weeks along. Then you'll see much more! That would only be 2 weeks away!

And yes, internal vaginal ultrasounds are much better and more accurate early on....I would specifically ask for one to be honest, since you're paying you might as well get the best images!

I’d wait until at least 7 weeks and go for a more general, medical ultrasound setting like Ultrasound Direct or Ultrasound Plus.

Window to the Womb with all of its gender reveal cannons, balloon arches and baby photography is not where you want to potentially receive bad or inconclusive news.

The fetal medical centre jn harley street have always been superb. They gave abdolute top range equipment and staff, and are very good. Ive been there every time. Definitely wait until after 8 weeks. You tonetimes dint fet a hwart dhiw befire 7 weeks so it would need to be after this to check for viability. By nine weeks baby is a more recognisable form too!

Hi guys,

Thank you so much for the advice! Yes - saw a couple of places that had balloons and confetti on their website and was a bit alarmed that it wouldn't be the best place to receive bad news!