Pregnancy scans · From 12 weeks
Twin Pregnancy Scan
A longer appointment built around the fact that two babies take longer to examine than one. Each baby is assessed individually for growth, position, fluid and wellbeing, and the report sets the two side by side.
Performed and reported by accredited clinicians.
- When
- From 12 weeks
- Duration
- 45 minutes
- Price
- €160, report included
About this scan
What this scan involves
Twin pregnancies are looked after more closely than singletons, with more frequent scans, because the babies share a limited space and sometimes a placenta. Our twin scan gives each baby the time a full assessment needs, rather than fitting two examinations into one standard appointment.
How the twins share
Whether the babies have separate placentas and sacs, or share them, is the single most important thing to know about a twin pregnancy, because it decides how closely they need to be watched. It is best determined in the first trimester. If it has already been recorded by your maternity unit, bring that information; if not, and you are early enough, we will assess it.
Each baby, individually
Every measurement is taken for each baby separately and labelled consistently, so that growth can be followed for each twin over time and any difference between them is picked up. The fluid around each baby, each cord and each placenta are assessed in the same way.
Alongside your maternity care
A twin pregnancy will already be under specialist care at your maternity unit, and our scan complements that rather than replacing it. The report is sent to your maternity team with your consent, and anything that needs prompt attention is telephoned through the same day.
When to have it
The best time for this scan
Ideal timing: Depends on the stage of pregnancy.
-
12 to 14 weeks
Early enough to confirm how the babies share the placenta and sacs, if this has not already been established.
-
20 to 24 weeks
A detailed look at each baby's development, alongside or between hospital scans.
-
From 24 weeks
Growth and wellbeing of each baby, which is where twins most often need watching. Repeat scans every few weeks are common.
What we check
Looked at during the scan
- Each baby's heartbeat
- Each baby's measurements and estimated weight, and any difference between them
- How the babies share the placenta and sacs, where this can be assessed
- The fluid around each baby
- Each placenta's position and each cord
- How each baby is lying
What's included
€160, nothing added at reception
- A forty-five minute appointment with an accredited sonographer or consultant
- A written report by a consultant radiologist, with findings for each baby
- Printed images of both babies 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
- You are expecting twins and want a thorough, unhurried assessment
- To follow each baby's growth between hospital appointments
- Reassurance that both babies are doing well
- A previous scan raised a question about one twin
What to expect
Before, during and after
Before your scan
No preparation is needed. Bring your maternity notes and any earlier scan reports, particularly anything that records how the babies share the placenta.
During the scan
The scan is done through the abdomen and takes about forty-five minutes. Each baby is examined in turn, and the sonographer will tell you which twin is being looked at. With two babies to position, there is often some waiting or a walk around. You can watch the screen throughout.
After your scan
The findings for each baby are explained on the day. The written consultant report follows, typically within three working days, and is sent to your maternity unit with your consent. Anything urgent is telephoned through the same day.
How to prepare
No preparation required. Please allow extra time, because two babies take longer to examine than one.
Book your Twin Pregnancy Scan
€160 including the consultant report, 45 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, though as a twin pregnancy you will be under maternity care, and we will send them the report with your consent.
Does this replace my hospital twin scans?
No. Twin pregnancies are scanned regularly by maternity units and those appointments matter. Our scan adds to that picture; it does not substitute for it.
Can you tell whether they are identical?
Sometimes. Twins that share a placenta are identical. Twins with separate placentas may be identical or not, and ultrasound cannot always tell. Different sexes settles it.
Can I have 3D images of the twins?
Ask when you book. Two babies in a small space make 3D imaging less predictable, but where the position allows, it can be added.
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
Growth Scan
Measures the baby and estimates weight, plotting growth against the expected range for your stage of pregnancy.
€130 · 30 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