PREGNANCY DATING ULTRASOUND SCAN
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
3hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
- Purpose: Measure gestational age and establish a reliable due date
- Timing: Most accurate at 6–9 weeks after your last menstrual period (LMP)
- Impact: Provides the baseline for every future prenatal test, screening, and appointment
What is Pregnancy Dating Ultrasound Scan?
A pregnancy dating ultrasound scan is a painless imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to capture real-time images of your uterus and embryo. Unlike later anatomy scans that check organ formation, this early scan focuses on size, location, and heartbeat to pinpoint gestational age.
Types of Pregnancy Dating Ultrasound Scan
Method | When Used | Pros |
---|---|---|
Transvaginal | 5–9 weeks | Higher-resolution images, earlier detection |
Transabdominal | After 9 weeks | Comfortable, no internal probe |
Your sonographer will choose the approach that gives the clearest view for your stage of pregnancy. |
List of Parameters
- Crown-rump length (CRL) – most accurate dating metric
- Gestational sac diameter – confirms intrauterine pregnancy
- Yolk sac presence & size – indicates healthy early placenta formation
- Fetal heartbeat rate – should be 90–110 bpm at 6 weeks and rise steadily
Why This Test
- Accurate due date – avoids induction or premature delivery
- Confirm intrauterine pregnancy – rules out ectopic risks
- Early detection of miscarriage or molar pregnancy
When to Take Test
- Ideal window: 6–9 weeks from LMP
- Must-have if you:
• Have irregular periods
• Are unsure of your LMP date
• Have conceived via assisted reproduction - Not needed if you already have an accurate dating scan from another provider
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Pregnancy Dating Ultrasound Scan
- Reassurance & bonding – see your baby’s heartbeat for the first time
- Optimised scheduling – perfect timing for NIPT, NT scan, and anomaly scan
- Prevents unnecessary interventions – precise dating reduces false alarms
Illnesses Diagnosed with Pregnancy Dating Ultrasound Scan
Condition | What the Scan Shows |
---|---|
Ectopic pregnancy | Sac outside the uterus |
Missed miscarriage | Empty sac or no heartbeat |
Molar pregnancy | Cluster of abnormal grape-like tissue |
Preparing for test
- Wear loose, two-piece clothing for easy abdominal access
- Bring your partner or a support person—our rooms are designed for two
- Mental prep: Ask questions; we explain every image on-screen
Pre-requisites Pregnancy Dating Ultrasound Scan
- Positive home pregnancy test or doctor referral
- Record of your last menstrual period—even approximate dates help
Best Time to Take the Pregnancy Dating Ultrasound Scan
- Optimal: 6–9 weeks gestation
- Avoid: Before 5 weeks to minimise inconclusive results
- Tip: Book as soon as you miss a period and get a positive test
Eligibility
- Suitable for: All pregnant women, especially those unsure of LMP
- Not suitable for: Confirmed miscarriages or non-pregnant individuals
Procedure for Taking a Pregnancy Dating Ultrasound Scan
- Check-in with ID and referral at Cadabams Diagnostics reception
- Pre-scan brief – you’ll be asked about symptoms and LMP
- Positioning – lie comfortably on the ultrasound couch
- Scanning – 15–30 minutes of gentle imaging
- Instant report – printed and emailed to you and your doctor
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Report any bleeding, pain, or dizziness to the sonographer
- Bladder:
• Full for transabdominal scan
• Empty if transvaginal scan is likely—follow the SMS instructions we send
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
---|---|---|
CRL 10 mm | Crown-rump length measured | 7 weeks 0 days gestation – normal |
Gestational sac 25 mm | Intrauterine circular sac visible | Consistent with 7 weeks |
Yolk sac 3 mm | Small circle inside sac | Healthy early pregnancy |
Heart rate 110 bpm | Flickering seen on screen | Normal for 6–7 weeks |
Empty sac ≥25 mm | No embryo or yolk sac | Possible miscarriage—follow-up scan advised |
Risks & Limitations
- Safety:
• Zero radiation—only harmless sound waves
• No known side-effects for mother or baby - Limitations:
• Heartbeat may not yet be visible before 5.5 weeks
• Too-early scans can lead to inconclusive results
FAQs
Is the scan painful?
Most women feel only mild pressure; transvaginal scans are quick and well-tolerated.
Can I bring my partner?
Absolutely—our ultrasound suites accommodate two guests comfortably.
What if no heartbeat is seen?
It may simply be too early. A repeat scan in one week is usually recommended.
How accurate is the estimated due date?
With CRL measurement at 6–9 weeks, accuracy is ±3–5 days.
Do I need a full bladder?
Only for abdominal scans. We’ll text you clear instructions the day before.