Viability Scans (6–10 weeks)
Read more about viability scans
The purpose of viability scans are to:
- Detect your baby's heartbeat
- Rule out the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy
- Reveal if you are carrying one baby, twins or more
- Confirm that the baby is developing normally in the early part of the first trimester of pregnancy
- Date your pregnancy in order to plan first trimester screening such as Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing and the Nuchal scan
Viability scans are particularly beneficial if you have previously miscarried or experienced bleeding, and are normally performed transvaginally and with a full bladder.
Nuchal Scan (11–13 weeks)
The purpose of a Nuchal Scan is to:
- Date the pregnancy
- Measure the volume of translucent fluid in the space behind your baby’s neck, thereby estimating your baby’s risk of having chromosomal abnormalities such as Downs Syndrome, Edwards, Patau and Turner Syndrome
- Determine whether more diagnostic testing, such as NIPT, CVS or Amniocentesis is necessary
- Examine your baby’s heart in greater detail
A routine blood test is also taken during this scan. For more information on Amniocentesis or CVS please see:
Anomaly Scan (20 weeks)
The purpose of an Anomaly Scan is to:
- Check that your baby is developing normally at the mid pregnancy stage
- Look at the location of the placenta
- Take various measurements to make sure that your baby’s growth is on track
- Check all your baby’s body parts for conditions such as cleft lip and palate, spina bifida, and any abnormalities of the brain, heart and other organs
Dr Duncan performs an Early Anomaly Scan at 16 weeks as standard, as part of his fixed price private maternity care packages.
Growth and Doppler Scans (24–42 weeks)
Read more about growth and doppler scans
The purpose of growth and doppler scans are to:
- Determine the growth of the baby by tracking biometrics and estimating fetal weight
- Measure the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding your baby
- Assess the blood flow from the placenta to your baby by Doppler ultrasound
- Assess the position in which your baby is lying in the womb
- Check the placental position and appearance
- Examine the movements of the baby
All scans are included as part of comprehensive obstetric care with Dr Duncan.
Ultrasound Baby Scans FAQs
Yes. Ultrasound has been used in pregnancy care for decades. It uses sound waves only, with no radiation, and is considered safe for both you and your baby when performed by a qualified professional.
No, you can book directly with the practice. If you are using private medical insurance for the scan, please check your insurer's referral requirements as policies vary.
Yes. Dr Duncan performs his own pregnancy ultrasound scans during consultations, which means the images are reviewed and explained directly by the consultant at the appointment.
Yes, partners are welcome to attend ultrasound appointments. If you would like to bring anyone else, please check with the practice when booking, as room arrangements can vary by clinic.
Your baby’s sex can be revealed via Non Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) at 10+ weeks, or via scan from around 15/16 weeks.
Scan duration varies by scan type and by what needs to be checked. The anomaly scan usually takes around 30 minutes, and the practice team will confirm the expected timing for your appointment when you book.
If anything unexpected is identified during the scan, Dr Duncan will discuss it with you fully at the same appointment. As he is sub-specialist accredited in maternal and fetal medicine, most findings can be assessed and explained on the spot, and any further investigations are arranged from there.
Fees vary by scan type and are listed on the Fees page. If you are unsure which scan to book, the practice team can confirm the right appointment and fee when you get in touch.
About Dr Duncan Birth
Dr Keith Duncan MD FRCOG is a leading consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist based in London. With over 30 years experience, Dr Duncan has delivered more than 4,000 babies both in the NHS and as a private obstetrician. His areas of expertise include childbirth, caesarean, antenatal care, multiple pregnancies, ultrasound and high-risk pregnancies.
Contact
Our secretary is Colette.
She can be contacted by email at [email protected] or by telephone via 0207 3495 204
Locations
Clinics
The Portland Hospital Consulting Suite
3rd Floor, 212 Great Portland Street, London, W1W 5QN
Ovara Health
274 Fulham Road, Chelsea Walk, London, SW10 9EW
132 Harley Street
London, W1G 7JX
Hospital
The Portland Hospital
205-209 Great Portland Street, London, W1W 5AH
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