Written by Daniela Stan, Consultant Sonographer & Clinical Director, Sonoworld London.
Medically reviewed by Daniela Stan, Consultant Sonographer —
What scans does the NHS offer in pregnancy?
The NHS offers two routine ultrasound scans to all pregnant women in England:
Dating scan (10–14 weeks): Confirms gestational age, estimated due date, and number of fetuses. Also screens for Down's syndrome, Edwards' syndrome, and Patau's syndrome as part of the combined first-trimester screening test (with a blood test).
Anomaly scan (18–21 weeks): A detailed structural survey of the baby, screening for 11 specific conditions including anencephaly, open spina bifida, and major cardiac defects.
Additional NHS scans may be offered if there are clinical concerns — for example, growth scans in the third trimester if the baby is measuring small, or Doppler scans if there are concerns about placental function. These are not routine for all pregnancies.
What additional scans can you get privately?
Private pregnancy scans complement the NHS pathway by offering:
Early pregnancy scan (6–10 weeks): Confirms viability and location before the NHS dating scan. Particularly valuable after IVF, recurrent miscarriage, or early pregnancy bleeding.
Dating scan (10–14 weeks): Available privately if you want a scan before your NHS appointment, or if you have conceived through IVF and need an earlier dating measurement.
Growth scan (28+ weeks): Assesses fetal size, position, amniotic fluid volume, and placental location. Available privately if you want reassurance between NHS appointments.
Key differences between NHS and private pregnancy scans
Factor
NHS
Sonoworld (Private)
Cost
Free at point of use
From £235
Availability
Two routine scans; additional scans only if clinically indicated
Any scan type, any time in pregnancy
Wait time
Appointment sent by post; typically 2–4 weeks' notice
Same-day or next-day appointments available
Appointment duration
Typically 20–30 minutes; may feel rushed
30–45 minutes; unhurried
Verbal explanation
Variable; sonographer may not be able to discuss findings in detail
Full verbal explanation at end of every scan
Written report
Summary sent to GP/midwife; patient may not receive a copy
Full written report emailed to patient within 24 hours
Gender determination
Not offered
Available from 16 weeks
When is a private pregnancy scan most useful?
Private pregnancy scans are most valuable in the following situations:
Before the NHS dating scan: If you have had a previous miscarriage, IVF conception, or early pregnancy bleeding, an early viability scan at 6–8 weeks provides reassurance before the NHS pathway begins.
After an unexpected NHS finding: If the NHS anomaly scan identifies a soft marker or borderline finding, a second opinion scan at Sonoworld can confirm or clarify the result before you make any decisions.
For gender determination: The NHS does not offer gender scans. A private gender scan at Sonoworld is available from 16 weeks.
For reassurance between NHS appointments: If you are anxious about fetal movement or growth between your NHS scans, a private growth scan provides objective reassurance.
For presentation confirmation: If you are approaching your due date and want to confirm the baby's position before delivery, a presentation scan at Sonoworld provides a clear answer.
From Our Practice
The most common reason patients come to us during pregnancy is not dissatisfaction with the NHS — it is the gap between NHS appointments. The NHS pathway offers two scans across a 40-week pregnancy. For many women, particularly those with a history of miscarriage or pregnancy complications, the weeks between NHS appointments are a source of significant anxiety. A private scan at Sonoworld does not replace the NHS pathway; it fills the gaps in it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral for a private pregnancy scan?
No. You can book directly at Sonoworld without a GP or midwife referral.
Will my midwife accept a Sonoworld scan report?
Yes. A report from a CQC-registered clinic prepared by an HCPC-registered consultant sonographer is a valid clinical document that your midwife and obstetrician can act on.
Is private pregnancy ultrasound safe?
Yes. Diagnostic ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and has an excellent safety record in pregnancy. All Sonoworld scans are performed in accordance with BMUS safety guidelines, using the ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principle.
Sonoworld is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Our sonographers are registered with HCPC and are members of BMUS. All scans are performed at our Marylebone clinic: 29 Weymouth Street, London W1G 7DB.
Book Your Early Pregnancy Scan at Sonoworld
Same-day and next-day appointments available at our Marylebone clinic. Instant verbal results. Written report within 24 hours. No GP referral required.
