Private Pregnancy Ultrasound Scans

Are you looking for a private baby scan in London?

International Ultrasound Services offers pregnancy ultrasound scans complementary to the NHS from 6 weeks gestation.

What Are Private Pregnancy Scans?

Private pregnancy scans are elective ultrasound scans that offer expectant parents an opportunity to view their baby outside of the standard scans provided by healthcare systems. Unlike routine scans that are primarily for medical purposes, private scans can provide additional reassurance, offer more detailed images, or simply give families a chance to bond with their unborn baby in a more relaxed and personal setting.

private baby scan

Why Choose a Private Scan?

Choosing a private scan can afford you the luxury of convenience and flexibility. Appointments can often be made outside of regular healthcare hours, meaning less waiting and more time to enjoy the experience. Additionally, private scans can be tailored to your needs, whether you’re looking for an early confirmation of pregnancy, want to know the gender of your baby, or wish to see a more detailed 3D/4D image of your baby’s face and movements.

Our Scan Options

We offer a variety of scan options to suit every stage of pregnancy:

  • Early Pregnancy Scan: From as early as 6 weeks, this scan is designed to confirm your pregnancy, check for a heartbeat, and estimate your due date.

  • Dating Scan: Usually performed at 10-14 weeks, this scan gives you a more accurate due date and checks the baby’s development.

  • Gender Scan: Typically from 16 weeks onwards, for parents who are eager to know their baby’s gender.

  • Detailed Growth Scan: A detailed scan at around 24 weeks of gestation to check the baby’s anatomy and growth.

Benefits of Choosing Private Scans

When expecting a new addition to your family, every moment is precious. Private pregnancy scans offer an intimate and comprehensive look into your baby’s development, providing you with peace of mind and a unique bonding experience. Here are some key benefits of opting for private scans during your pregnancy journey:

Immediate Results and Insights: Unlike the often lengthy wait times associated with hospital scans, private scans offer the advantage of getting immediate feedback. Our experienced sonographers will guide you through every step, explaining the images and findings as they go, giving you real-time insights into your baby’s health and growth.

Comfort and Convenience: We understand that pregnancy can be an exhausting time, which is why our clinic is designed for your comfort. With flexible appointment scheduling, including evening and weekend slots, we accommodate your busy life, ensuring you can find a time that suits you without the stress of long hospital waiting lists.

Longer, Unrushed Appointments: Each session is allocated extra time, so you never feel rushed. This allows for a thorough scan and gives you ample opportunity to ask questions and understand every aspect of your baby’s development. Our goal is to ensure that you leave our clinic feeling informed and reassured.

Advanced Technology: Our clinic prides itself on utilizing state-of-the-art ultrasound technology. This high-resolution imaging provides clear and detailed pictures of your baby, enhancing the accuracy of our assessments and the quality of your experience.

A Range of Scans to Choose From: We offer a variety of scans to meet your needs at every stage of pregnancy. From early pregnancy scans to confirm your due date, to gender scans, to detailed growth scans scans where you can see your baby’s features, we cater to all your wishes with care and precision.

Privacy and Personalization: Our private scanning service is tailored to your needs. We offer a serene environment where you can enjoy the experience with your partner or family members without the usual clinical rush. The sessions are private and personalized, allowing you to form a bond with your baby in a calm and intimate setting.

Expert Care: Our sonographers are not only technically skilled but also empathetic and warm. They provide a supportive space for you to express any concerns and hopes for your pregnancy, offering professional advice and compassionate care throughout your scanning experience.

Choosing private scans can transform your pregnancy journey into an even more special and intimate adventure, creating memories that you will cherish long after your baby’s arrival.

Baby Scan services Offered

At IUS London, we understand that every pregnancy is unique, and we are dedicated to providing a personal and comfortable experience. Our private scan services are tailored to meet your individual needs and offer you peace of mind at every stage of your pregnancy. Below is the scans we offer:

Not sure which scan you need? Check our pregnancy calculator.

Early Pregnancy Scan (6-10 weeks): This scan is designed to confirm your pregnancy and to check the early development of your baby. You’ll be able to see the heartbeat and receive confirmation of the estimated due date. Our sonographers will also check for signs of multiple pregnancies and assess the health of your reproductive organs.

Dating Scan (11-14 weeks): Also known as the first trimester scan, the dating scan provides you with more accurate dating of your pregnancy. This scan is particularly reassuring for parents who have experienced previous complications or are anxious about the pregnancy.

Gender Scan (16 weeks onwards): If you’re eager to know whether you’re having a boy or a girl, our gender scan can provide you with that exciting revelation, subject to the baby’s position during the scan.

Growth Scan (24 weeks onwards): This scan monitors your baby’s growth and development. It includes measurements of your baby’s head, abdomen, and femur length. The sonographer will also evaluate the placental position and the amount of amniotic fluid.

Presentation Scan (35 weeks onwards): As your due date approaches, this scan assesses your baby’s position and helps determine the best delivery plan. It also includes a final check-up of the baby’s growth and well-being.

Each scan is performed using the latest ultrasound technology in a calm and comfortable setting. Our sonographers are highly trained professionals who will guide you through the process, explaining findings and answering any questions you might have. You will receive a detailed report of each scan, along with printed images.

Your comfort, care, and satisfaction are our utmost priorities. We look forward to being a part of your pregnancy journey and providing you with memories that you will cherish forever.

Genuine Testimonials and 5-Star Google Patient Reviews

Baby Scan Clinic London

Clinic Address:

International Ultrasound Services
5a Lucerne Mews London
W8 4ED
Nearest tube: Notting Hill Gate
Tel: 0203 051 6506 or 0753 929 0816
E-mail:info@iuslondon.co.uk

Appointment Bookings

Monday – Friday: 9am-8pm
Saturday: 10am-1pm
Sunday: Closed

Directions to our Ultrasound Clinic.
Google Maps.

Private Pregnancy Ultrasound: What You Need to Know

If you are pregnant or planning to conceive, you may have heard of private ultrasound scans. These are scans that you can book independently of the NHS, usually at a private clinic or hospital. But what are the benefits and risks of private ultrasound, and how do they differ from NHS scans? Here are some facts and tips to help you decide if private ultrasound is right for you.

What is private pregnancy ultrasound?

Private pregnancy ultrasound is a type of medical imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of your body. Ultrasound can be used to examine various organs and tissues, such as the heart, kidneys, liver, blood vessels, muscles, and bones. Ultrasound can also be used to monitor the development of a baby in the womb.

Private pregnancy ultrasound scans are not covered by the NHS, so you have to pay for them yourself. The cost of a private ultrasound scan can vary depending on the type of scan, the clinic or hospital, and the location. Generally, a private ultrasound scan can cost between £50 and £500.

Why would you choose private baby scan?

There are several reasons why you might choose to have a private ultrasound scan instead of or in addition to an NHS scan. Some of these reasons are:

– You want more scans than the NHS offers. The NHS usually offers two routine scans during pregnancy: one at 8 to 14 weeks to confirm your due date and check for any abnormalities, and one at 18 to 21 weeks to check the baby’s growth and development. Some women may want more scans to reassure themselves that everything is going well, or to see their baby more often.

– You want a different type of scan than the NHS offers. The NHS only offers standard 2D scans, which show a flat image of the baby. Some private clinics offer 3D or 4D scans, which show a more realistic image of the baby’s face and body. Some women may want these scans to bond with their baby or to share with their family and friends.

– You want a faster or more convenient service than the NHS offers. The NHS may have long waiting times for scans, or may not have appointments at convenient times or locations for you. Some private clinics offer same-day appointments, flexible hours, and home visits. Some women may prefer these options for convenience or privacy.

– You want a more personalised or comfortable experience than the NHS offers. The NHS may have strict protocols and guidelines for scans, which may limit your choices and preferences. Some private clinics offer more personalised care, such as allowing you to choose the gender of the sonographer, having music or aromatherapy in the scan room, or giving you a souvenir DVD or photo of your scan. Some women may find these options more enjoyable or relaxing.

What are the risks of private ultrasound?

Private ultrasound scans are generally safe and have no known harmful effects on you or your baby. However, there are some potential risks that you should be aware of before booking a private ultrasound scan. Some of these risks are:

– You may get inaccurate or misleading information from a private scan. Private ultrasound scans are not regulated by the NHS, so the quality and accuracy of the scans may vary depending on the clinic or hospital, the equipment, and the sonographer. Some private clinics may not have qualified or experienced sonographers, or may not follow professional standards and guidelines. This could lead to false reassurance, false alarms, missed diagnoses, or incorrect advice.

– You may get unnecessary or inappropriate interventions from a private scan. Private ultrasound scans are not part of your antenatal care plan, so they may not be coordinated with your NHS care team. This could cause confusion or conflict between your private and NHS providers, especially if they give you different information or recommendations. Some private clinics may also offer services that are not evidence-based or medically necessary, such as gender determination, nuchal translucency screening, fetal anomaly screening, or fetal DNA testing. These services could expose you to unnecessary risks or costs, or influence your decisions about your pregnancy.

– You may get emotional distress from a private scan. Private ultrasound scans can be an exciting and positive experience for some women, but they can also be stressful and upsetting for others. Some women may feel anxious or disappointed if they do not see what they expected or hoped for in their scan, such as their baby’s face, gender, or movements. Some women may also feel overwhelmed or guilty if they find out something is wrong with their baby in their scan, especially if they did not have any symptoms or signs beforehand.

How can you make an informed decision about private ultrasound?

If you are considering having a private ultrasound scan, it is important that you make an informed decision based on reliable information and your personal preferences. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

– Do your research before booking a private scan. Find out as much as you can about the type of scan you want, the clinic or hospital you want to go to, and the sonographer who will perform the scan. Check their qualifications, experience, reputation, and reviews. Compare their prices, services, and policies. Ask them any questions you have about the scan, such as what it involves, what it can and cannot show, what the risks and benefits are, and what happens if they find something wrong.

– Discuss your decision with your NHS care team. Tell them that you are planning to have a private scan, and ask them for their opinion and advice. They may be able to offer you an alternative or additional scan on the NHS, or refer you to a specialist if needed. They may also be able to help you interpret the results of your private scan, and coordinate your care accordingly.

– Think about your reasons and expectations for having a private scan. Ask yourself why you want to have a private scan, and what you hope to get out of it. Be realistic and flexible about what a private scan can and cannot do for you and your baby. Remember that a private scan is not a substitute for your NHS scans or antenatal care, and that it may not change the outcome of your pregnancy.

– Consider the emotional impact of having a private scan. Think about how you would feel if your private scan shows something unexpected or concerning, or if it does not meet your expectations. Prepare yourself for different scenarios and outcomes, and plan how you would cope with them. Seek support from your partner, family, friends, or health professionals if you need it.

Private ultrasound scans can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for some women, but they are not essential or without risks. You should weigh the pros and cons carefully before booking a private scan, and make sure you are well informed and supported throughout the process.

Book your Private Baby Scan

Choose the most suitable day and time for you without the NHS wait.

FAQ

What is a private pregnancy scan, and how does it differ from NHS scans?

A private pregnancy scan is an ultrasound performed by a qualified sonographer in a non-hospital setting. Unlike routine NHS scans which are generally limited to specific weeks of pregnancy, private scans can be scheduled for additional reassurance, at times convenient to you, and offer a broader range of services such as 3D/4D imaging.

At what stage of pregnancy can I have a private scan?

Private scans can be performed at various stages throughout pregnancy, starting from as early as 6 weeks up to full term. Each type of scan has recommended weeks for optimal results, which our team can advise you on.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to book a private scan?

No, a referral is not necessary for a private pregnancy scan. You can book an appointment directly with us at any time.

How long does a scan take, and when will I receive the results?

Most scans take between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the type of scan you are having. Results are typically provided immediately during the appointment, along with a detailed explanation from the sonographer.

Is it safe to have multiple scans during my pregnancy?

Ultrasound scans are considered safe for both mother and baby when performed by a qualified professional. There are no known risks with having multiple scans, and they can provide peace of mind throughout your pregnancy.

What if the scan detects a problem?

If any issues are detected during the scan, we will provide a full explanation and a written report. We will also advise you on the next steps and, with your consent, can liaise directly with your healthcare provider for further management.

 Can I bring someone with me to the scan?

Yes, we understand that pregnancy is a special time and encourage you to bring a partner, family member, or friend for support. Please check with us beforehand as we may have restrictions on the number of guests due to space or current health guidelines.

What should I do to prepare for my scan?

Preparation can vary depending on the type of scan. Typically, we advise that you come with a full bladder for early pregnancy scans to improve image quality. For later scans, no special preparation is needed. We’ll provide you with detailed instructions when you book your appointment.

Are the sonographers qualified? 

Absolutely. All our sonographers are fully qualified and experienced in obstetric ultrasound. They are registered with the appropriate professional bodies and participate in ongoing training to ensure the highest standard of care.

 How much does a private pregnancy scan cost?

Costs vary depending on the type of scan and the stage of pregnancy. We offer transparent pricing and package deals, which are all detailed on our Pricing page. Please contact us for more information or if you have any specific requirements.

Can I get pictures or videos of my scan?

Yes, we provide printed images.

How can I book a private pregnancy scan?

Booking is simple. You can book online through our appointments page, call our reception, or send us an email. Our contact information is available on the Contact Us page.

What is the cost of a private pregnancy scan?

The cost of a private pregnancy scan will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of scan, the clinic you choose, and the location of the clinic. Ultrasound scans are the most common type of private pregnancy scan and can range from around £50 to £200. These scans are used to monitor the development of the baby and to check for any abnormalities.
 

What are the risks of a private pregnancy scan?

 
The risks of a private pregnancy scan depend on the type of scan being performed and the qualifications of the technician performing the scan. Generally speaking, the risks of a private pregnancy scan are minimal, but there are some potential risks that should be considered. First and foremost, it is important to make sure that the sonographer performing the scan is qualified and experienced in performing pregnancy scans.

Safety and Accreditation

At IUS London, your safety and the well-being of your unborn child are our utmost priorities. We are dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable, and reassuring environment for all our scans.

Here’s how we ensure the highest standards of care and safety:

Clinical Excellence:
Our facility is staffed by accredited sonographers who are registered with the appropriate professional bodies, ensuring they meet the rigorous standards for medical imaging and patient care.

Advanced Technology:
We utilize the latest in ultrasound technology which is regularly serviced and calibrated to provide high-quality imaging while adhering to the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle to ensure ultrasound exposure is kept to a minimum.

Clean and Hygienic Environment:
Our clinic maintains a strict hygiene protocol, with all equipment and surfaces thoroughly sanitized between appointments to minimize any risk of infection.

Privacy and Confidentiality:
We comply with all relevant health data protection laws to guarantee your personal and medical information remains confidential and is handled with the utmost sensitivity.

Accreditation:
Our clinic is accredited by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), demonstrating our commitment to achieving and maintaining the highest level of care and service.

Regular audits and assessments by this body ensure our continued compliance with health and safety standards.

Continuous Training:
Our team engages in ongoing professional development to stay abreast of the latest advancements in prenatal scanning and patient care.

Emergency Protocols:
While complications during a scan are extremely rare, we have comprehensive emergency procedures in place. Our staff is trained in first aid and emergency response, and we have a clear protocol for referral to medical facilities if necessary.

Client Feedback:
We actively seek and respond to feedback from our clients to continually improve our services and address any concerns promptly.

For any further information about our safety protocols or accreditation, please don’t hesitate to Contact Us. We are here to answer all your questions and provide the peace of mind you deserve during this special time.

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