Pregnancy scans · From 24 weeks
Growth Scan
Measures the baby and estimates its weight, then plots that against what is expected at your stage. Booked most often when a midwife or GP has a question about size, or for reassurance in the third trimester.
Performed and reported by accredited clinicians.
- When
- From 24 weeks
- Duration
- 30 minutes
- Price
- €130, report included
About this scan
What this scan involves
From twenty-four weeks the baby's size can be assessed by measuring the head, the abdomen and the thigh bone. These measurements are combined to estimate the baby's weight, and the result is plotted on a growth chart against the expected range for your stage of pregnancy.
Why growth is watched
A baby that is measuring smaller or larger than expected may simply be built that way, but it can also be a sign that the placenta is not working as well as it should, or of other conditions that benefit from closer monitoring. A growth scan gives your maternity team an objective measurement to work with.
More than a single number
One scan gives a snapshot. Where there is a concern, growth is usually checked again after two to three weeks, because the trend between scans tells more than any single measurement. We will say clearly in the report whether a repeat is suggested.
What else is looked at
The scan also checks the fluid around the baby, the position of the placenta and the way the baby is lying, and confirms the heartbeat. If you would like blood flow through the cord assessed as well, the Wellbeing Scan includes it.
When to have it
The best time for this scan
Ideal timing: Any time from twenty-four weeks.
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24 to 28 weeks
Useful when an earlier scan has raised a question, or where there is a reason to watch growth from the start of the third trimester.
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28 to 36 weeks
The most common time. Measurements are reliable and there is time to act on the result.
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After 36 weeks
Still valuable, particularly for estimating weight before birth. Weight estimates near term carry a wider margin of error, which the report will explain.
What we check
Looked at during the scan
- Head, abdomen and thigh bone measurements
- Estimated fetal weight, plotted on a growth chart
- The heartbeat
- The fluid around the baby
- The position of the placenta
- How the baby is lying
What's included
€130, nothing added at reception
- The ultrasound examination, performed by an accredited sonographer or consultant
- A written report by a consultant radiologist, with the measurements and growth chart
- Printed images to take home
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
- Your midwife or GP has said the bump is measuring small or large
- A previous baby was small or large, or was born early
- You have a condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure that makes growth worth watching
- Reassurance that the baby is growing well
- To estimate the baby's weight before birth
What to expect
Before, during and after
Before your scan
No preparation is needed. Bring your maternity notes if you have them, and any previous scan reports so growth can be compared.
During the scan
The scan is done through the abdomen and takes about thirty minutes. The measurements need particular views of the head, abdomen and thigh, so there may be some waiting for the baby to move. You can watch the screen throughout.
After your scan
The measurements and estimated weight are explained on the day. The written consultant report, with the growth chart, follows typically within three working days and is sent to your maternity unit or GP with your consent. If the result needs prompt attention, we contact them the same day.
How to prepare
No preparation required.
Book your Growth Scan
€130 including the consultant report, 30 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. Bringing a referral or your maternity notes helps us compare with earlier measurements.
How accurate is the weight estimate?
It is an estimate from measurements, not a weighing. It is reliable enough to show whether growth is on track, but the actual birth weight can differ from the estimate, more so near term.
My baby is measuring small. What happens now?
Many small babies are simply small. The report will say whether the measurements are within the expected range and whether a repeat scan or contact with your maternity unit is recommended. Where follow-up is needed, we contact them with your consent.
Does this replace hospital growth scans?
No. If your maternity unit has arranged growth scans, keep those appointments. Our report can be shared with them to add to the picture.
Can I bring someone?
Yes. One adult guest is welcome in the room.
Also consider
Other pregnancy scans
20–22 weeks
Detailed Anatomy Scan
A detailed head-to-toe review of the baby's development, the placenta, the cord and the fluid around the baby.
€220 · 45 minutes
From 24 weeks
Wellbeing Scan
Checks the heartbeat, movement, fluid volume around the baby, placental position and blood flow through the cord.
€130 · 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