12 week scan: The dating scan guide

Summary

If you’re waiting until your first scan to share your news, you might feel like 12 weeks can’t come soon enough. Learn why the dating scan is carried out, why your due date might change, and get tips to help you prepare for your appointment.

The viability, or dating scan

Although sometimes known as the reassurance and viability scan, your 12 week scan is more typically referred to as the dating scan. Bear in mind that you may not have your scan at exactly 12 weeks; it usually takes place between your 8th and 14th week of pregnancy.

During the first scan your sonographer will check the size of your baby to give a more accurate idea of their age and your due date. It will provide clarity on whether you are expecting more than one baby. It will also determine the ‘viability’ of the pregnancy by confirming that the baby is growing as expected within the womb. The scan is harmless to mother and baby and will typically take 20 minutes for the sonographer to complete before he or she provides a report for your midwife to share with you

At 12 weeks pregnant, your baby is around 6cm in length, with vital organs, bones and muscles in place, ready to grow and mature over the coming months.

NEXT STEPS

Try and keep a full bladder for your scan as it will improve the clarity of the ultrasound imaging by pushing the position of the uterus forward to the surface.
Wear comfy clothes you can easily undo. A top you can pull up and loose trousers you can pull down will mean you don’t have to get undressed. The gel used can be messy, so wear something washable.
You will be allowed to bring at least one person with you into the scanning room but check with your hospital if you want to invite more.
Take some change in case you want to buy scan photos.

Last reviewed: 29th November 2017