Pregnancy scans · From 6 weeks
Early Pregnancy & Viability Scan
Your first look at the pregnancy: where it is, whether there is a heartbeat, and how many babies there are. Many people book this scan for reassurance after bleeding, pain or a previous loss, or simply because the wait for a first hospital appointment feels long.
Performed and reported by accredited clinicians.
- When
- From 6 weeks
- Duration
- 20 minutes
- Price
- €100, report included
About this scan
What this scan involves
An early pregnancy scan, sometimes called a viability scan, is performed from around six weeks. Its purpose is to confirm that the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus, to see the embryo and its heartbeat, and to check whether there is one baby or more.
How the pregnancy is measured
The sonographer measures the embryo from the top of its head to the bottom of its body, a measurement called the crown-rump length. In early pregnancy this gives a reliable estimate of how far along you are, which is useful if you are unsure of the date of your last period.
What you will see
At six to seven weeks you will usually see the pregnancy sac, the yolk sac and a small embryo with a flickering heartbeat. By nine or ten weeks the head, body and limb buds are recognisable and the baby is much easier to make out on screen.
If it is very early
Before about six weeks a heartbeat may not yet be visible even in a healthy pregnancy. If the scan is too early to be conclusive, we will explain what we can see and arrange a follow-up scan rather than leave you guessing.
When to have it
The best time for this scan
Ideal timing: Seven to ten weeks.
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Before 6 weeks
Often too early to see a heartbeat. We may suggest waiting a week or two unless there is a clinical reason to scan now.
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6 to 7 weeks
The sac, yolk sac and embryo are usually visible, and the heartbeat can typically be seen.
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8 to 10 weeks
The clearest time for reassurance. The heartbeat is easy to see and dating is at its most accurate.
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After 11 weeks
Consider the Dating Scan or, from 11 to 14 weeks, the Nuchal Translucency Scan instead.
What we check
Looked at during the scan
- That the pregnancy is inside the uterus
- The embryo and its heartbeat
- Whether there is one baby or more
- The size of the embryo, to estimate your dates
- The pregnancy sac and yolk sac
- The uterus and ovaries
What's included
€100, nothing added at reception
- The ultrasound examination, performed by an accredited sonographer or consultant
- A written report by a consultant radiologist
- Printed images to take home
- Time to ask questions. Nobody is rushed off the couch.
The price you are quoted is the price you pay. No separate reporting fee, no consultation surcharge.
Why people book it
You might choose this scan if
- To confirm a pregnancy after a positive home test
- To see the heartbeat and be reassured the pregnancy is progressing
- To work out how far along you are and your likely due date
- Reassurance after bleeding, pain or a previous miscarriage
- To check for twins
- When the wait for a first maternity appointment is causing worry
What to expect
Before, during and after
Before your scan
Attend with a comfortably full bladder: a glass or two of water about half an hour beforehand is usually enough. If you know the date of your last period, bring it. Wear something loose around the waist.
During the scan
You lie on the couch and the sonographer places warm gel on your lower abdomen and moves the probe gently across it. In very early pregnancy a transvaginal scan gives a much clearer picture; if that is recommended, it will be explained first and only done with your consent. It is not painful. You can watch the screen throughout and the sonographer will point out what you are seeing.
After your scan
You are told what was seen there and then, in plain language. The written consultant report follows, typically within three working days, and is sent to your GP or maternity unit with your consent so that your care stays joined up.
How to prepare
Attend with a comfortably full bladder. A transvaginal scan may be offered for a clearer view in very early pregnancy, always with your consent.
Book your Early Pregnancy & Viability Scan
€100 including the consultant report, 20 minutes. Choose a time online, or send an enquiry and we will call you back, usually within one working day. If you need to reschedule, please let us know as early as you can.
Questions
Frequently asked
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book this scan yourself. If your GP has referred you, bring the letter and we will send them the report.
What if there is no heartbeat?
If the scan is very early, that is not necessarily a sign of a problem, and we will arrange a repeat scan a week or so later. If the scan shows that the pregnancy is not progressing, you will be told gently and honestly on the day, and we will contact your GP or maternity unit with your consent so that support and follow-up are arranged quickly.
Can I bring my partner?
Yes. One adult guest is welcome in the room. Let us know when you book if you would like to bring children.
Will I need an internal scan?
Not always. Before about seven weeks an internal (transvaginal) scan often gives a clearer picture than scanning through the abdomen. It is offered, not imposed, and is quick and not painful.
Does this replace my hospital booking scan?
No. A private scan complements the antenatal care provided by your maternity unit or midwife; it does not replace it.
Also consider
Other pregnancy scans
8–12 weeks
Dating Scan
Establishes an accurate due date by measuring the baby, and confirms an ongoing single or multiple pregnancy.
€110 · 20 minutes
11–14 weeks
Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan
Measures the fluid at the back of the baby's neck as part of first-trimester screening, alongside an early structural review.
€145 · 30 minutes
From 12 weeks
Twin Pregnancy Scan
A longer appointment allowing each baby to be assessed individually for growth, position, fluid and wellbeing.
€160 · 45 minutes