A 4D scan is a moving, real-time, live-action video of a baby in the womb that allows parents to see their unborn baby’s movements and facial expressions. At First Encounters, we offer our 4D scans to those between weeks 24 and 32 of their pregnancy, however best results are usually obtained earlier, between 26 and 29 weeks.

To find out why this is the ideal window for getting a 4D scan and to learn about factors that can affect your image quality, continue reading this blog!

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Ultrasound scans use sound waves to create a picture of your baby in the womb, but what else can they reveal?

In this blog post, we’ll go over the different things that an ultrasound scan can tell you about your pregnancy and discuss why ultrasound scans are such an essential part of prenatal care.

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Need a Christmas present for a mum-to-be? Give the gift of a First Encounters baby scan!

Many mothers will tell you that the greatest gift they ever received was their little bundle of joy, so why not treat the expectant mother in your life to a 4D baby scan? 

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If you've had a baby scan before, whether with the NHS or at a private ultrasound clinic like First Encounters, you were probably advised you to arrive with a full bladder – but why? Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique, so why do you need to have a full bladder?

In this blog, we will explore how a full bladder helps sonographers to get a clear picture of your baby.

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Hearing your baby’s heartbeat for the first time is a much-anticipated pregnancy milestone. It’s a magic moment, and for expectant parents who are concerned about their baby’s wellbeing, it can also provide very welcome reassurance.

So how long exactly do you have to wait for an audible heartbeat? Keep reading to find out when and how you can hear your baby’s heartbeat for the first time…

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There are several different pregnancy scan types available at different points during your pregnancy, including:

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