earlyAssure™

CRL Measurement, Dating of Pregnancy, Visual Heartbeat & Movement, Ectopic Pregnancy Assessment & Yolk Sac Evaluation

Your scan will be conducted using an abdominal ultrasound probe (external on the abdomen), and it is important to recognise that imagery obtained is derived from the reflection of sound waves passing through your abdomen creating the visual image. From 6 weeks gestation your baby is likely to measure approximately 5mm in length, as such the level of diagnostic evaluation and visibility achievable should you attend this type of scan as early as 6 weeks can differ greatly between clients, especially in cases of a high BMI which can result in poor image resolution possibly leading to an inconclusive evaluation. In recognition of this it is preferred to perform this scan from a minimum 8 weeks gestation as it is important to understand that between 6 & 7 weeks, not all elements of this assessment may be achievable, therefore we have indicted in the *Gestation Age Evaluation Criteria the level of diagnostic evaluation that should be achievable within the defined periods. If your pregnancy is less than 6 weeks we cannot guarantee achievement of any of the defined criteria.

In the event we determine the scan to be inconclusive and it is considered a further internal trans-vaginal (TV) diagnostic assessment is required, a referral to your local early pregnancy unit (EPU) via your GP/Midwife, will be provided in accordance with our CQC approved procedures. It is recommended that you reach a gestation age of 8 weeks in order that a full detailed assessment can be conducted, however should you choose to come at an earlier gestation age, it is important to manage expectations as to the minimum we will determine and report on in accordance with the gestation age concluded at the time of scan. Referrals to EPU will only be provided when there is justified concern.

Your predicted gestation age should be calculated from the first day of your last period.
1-5 weeks gestation – Nothing visible on an ultrasound scan.
6-7 weeks gestation – Potential Exclusion of Ectopic Pregnancy, Potential Visualisation & Measurement of Gestation Sac
8-13 weeks gestation - Exclusion of Ectopic Pregnancy, CRL Measurement, Yolk Sac, the number of babies you are carrying , Heartbeat & Movement

Your earlyAssure scan will last for approximately 5 minutes. As an ethical and regulated provider we comply with the British Medical Ultrasound Society (BMUS) guidelines, only scanning for as long as it necessitates to achieve the required diagnostic evaluation. Whilst we appreciate longer scan times promoted by other scan companies may seem appealing, the safety and wellbeing of your baby is paramount and should not be compromised.

In the unlikely event that we are unable to obtain any aspects of the diagnostic evaluation required to fulfil the requirements of the earlyAssure™ scan after we have confirmed the measured gestation age to be in excess of 8 weeks, you will be provided with a complimentary re-scan to be performed at a later date in order that we may conclude our evaluation. T&C's apply.

A multiple pregnancy will require further scan time in order to conduct the detailed assessment of multiple foetus; as such we charge an additional £15 to account for the extended appointment time allocated.

All ultrasound scans are performed by qualified and experienced obstetric Sonographers registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC). First Encounters Ultrasound Ltd is registered and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)

We have seating for up 6 guests and children are most welcome, however we would respectfully urge you to consider the diagnostic nature of this type of scan when inviting guests.

The diagnostic evaluations obtained whilst conducting the earlyAssure™ scan provide valuable insight into baby’s development and wellbeing, designed to compliment but not replace your NHS Dating/NT (12-14wks). Whilst this scan has a specific purpose, gestation age criteria and defined reporting protocols, our qualified Sonographers have an ethical obligation to highlight, report and refer matters of concern which may be outside the scope/protocols of the performed scan. In some circumstances further NHS evaluation and screening may be required; however the gestation age criteria for such evaluations will be determined by your NHS Antenatal provider.

Arrive with a full bladder as this will assist with magnification of scan imagery. Please do NOT empty bladder prior to scan.
Remove any belly piercings in advance of your appointment. We will need to expose your abdomen during the scan, as such please consider wearing a two piece outfit in order that we may respect your dignity.