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Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

Original poster

First scan

11 replies

Nazam · 17/10/2022 18:44

Hello
I'm expecting for the first time and it's a secret for now. I have my first scan in November.

What should I expect? It's not too clear when I look online and I can't ask my friends with children. Will I get to hear my baby's heartbeat? I presume I'll be told an approx due date?

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Doxiesshallinherittheearth · 17/10/2022 18:47

It’s a long time since my first scan - but yes, predicted due date, that the baby is measuring the right size and heartbeat. They put the gel on you m, tub the Doppler over it and then stare at the screen. Don’t be alarmed if they take a while to tell you all is ok, they sometimes take a while concentrating!
Its uncomfortable because if your full bladder, but it’s an amazing experience. Congratulations and good luck

Doxiesshallinherittheearth · 17/10/2022 18:48

*rub not tub

Original poster
Nazam · 17/10/2022 18:49

Thank you.

Nothing on my letter told me to come with a full bladder so thanks for the heads up 😊

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Doxiesshallinherittheearth · 17/10/2022 18:50

Unless the scans have radically changed since I had mine, yes, you need a full bladder!

quietnightmare · 17/10/2022 18:51

Make sure you ask to hear the heart beat as the person who did mine didn't have any sound on until I asked. As other poster said it's uncomfortable due to a full bladder and don't be alarmed if they use a bit of pressure they know what they are doing and won't harm the baby. Also leggings and a long top are a good idea as you may need to roll your leggings down a bit and that's a nightmare in jeans and you feel less exposed than if you are wearing a dress. Make a list of questions you want to ask and just to let you know they most likely won't let you film or take photographs in the room

decemberagain · 17/10/2022 18:51

We didn't hear the heartbeat at our hospital scans. You can see it beating on screen but they just don't do sound so you might not get that.

quietnightmare · 17/10/2022 18:52

Doxiesshallinherittheearth · 17/10/2022 18:50

Unless the scans have radically changed since I had mine, yes, you need a full bladder!

Yes 100 percent you need a full bladder you don't on later scans as it helps them see the baby better

mummyh2016 · 17/10/2022 18:52

Is it your NHS 12 week scan? I don't think they listen to the heartbeat. I know they definitely didn't in my first pregnancy and I'm 99% sure they didn't in my second pregnancy last year.

OurChristmasMiracle · 17/10/2022 18:54

They check for a heartbeat and may show you it on the screen but you don’t always hear it- but you will be able to see the baby.

a full bladder is needed but you do not need to drink pints of water an hour before like I did or you will be wanting to wet yourself!

bravotango · 17/10/2022 19:10

Big drink of water an hour before and yes to PP suggestion of leggings and a loose top! They'll play the heartbeat if you ask them to I reckon, mine just played it anyway

Original poster
Nazam · 17/10/2022 21:19

Thanks so much. Great tips xx

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