No, you typically do not need a referral for a private pregnancy ultrasound. Most private clinics allow direct self-referral for quick access to scans.

If you’re currently pregnant and anxious to get a glimpse of your baby, either for extra reassurance before your first NHS dating scan or to ease your mind in the gap between your routine scans, you may be wondering whether you need to get a GP referral to book any additional private ultrasound scans.

If you have an ultrasound scan coming up – whether it’s your very first pregnancy scan, a follow-up appointment or a 4D bonding scan – it is perfectly normal to feel a little nervous or anxious beforehand. In this blog, we will discuss some common questions about scan anxiety and share some great anxiety management techniques that you can use to help reduce nerves before your ultrasound appointment.