How many tests, scans happen and when

[MagicClay]

I just found out that I am pregnant around 3 weeks ago. It wasn't planned, and I have gone from shock, to surprise, and now I believe it's all planned by God❤ I am around 6 weeks and 5 days pregnant. My first appointment with the NHS is at 9 weeks and 3 days, and my first scan is at 12 weeks and 4 days. Is this normal timing? I was expecting it to be earlier.

Since I wasn't prepared for this AT ALL, I have no idea what to expect in terms of scans and tests. Can anyone guide me on how many tests, scans happen and when?

Also, I went for a private scan last week at exactly 6 weeks, but they couldn't find a heartbeat. They asked us to come back after 10 days and said it's sometimes too early to hear a heartbeat. Is that correct?

Thank you for your help! So glad I found this community :')

Congratulations! I had my baby 10 weeks ago and pregnancy goes so fast, try to enjoy it!

Those timings are absolutely normal, first scan is between 11 and 14 weeks, second and last scan on the NHS is between 18 and 21 weeks (usually 20 weeks) and that is the only scans you get unless you need growth scans/scans to check anything they pick up on along the way.

At your 12 week scan you can have tests done which checks for risk of Down Syndrome and a few other things, it’s a combined screening so your blood test, the scan and I believe your age & BMI are factored in.

6 weeks can be too early for a heartbeat but by 7.5 you would see it, I had a private scan at I think it was 6 weeks 2/3 days and saw heartbeat x

Congratulations! The 6 weeks scan- yes, normal to not see anything. I held off having a scan until 8 weeks for that reason, and saw him and heard him loud and clear 😀

Congratulations! Have a look at this page, it explains all of the appointments/scans the NHS will provide and when to expect them: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/your-pregnancy-care/your-antenatal-appointments/. There might also be a few extras in there depending on individual circumstances, e.g. extra blood tests/anti D injection if your blood type is rhesus negative - but you'll find out about those as you go along.