The viability scan is an essential early pregnancy ultrasound, usually performed between 6 to 8 weeks of gestation. It is often the first scan conducted during pregnancy. This scan is crucial in confirming the presence of a live, developing embryo within the uterus and ensuring that the pregnancy is progressing as expected. It provides reassurance to expectant parents by detecting the baby’s heartbeat, which is a key sign of viability. Additionally, it helps in determining the gestational age, predicting the due date, and checking for the number of fetuses to identify if it is a single or multiple pregnancy.

During the scan, the uterus and ovaries are also assessed to rule out any abnormalities, such as fibroids or ovarian cysts, that could potentially impact the pregnancy. The viability scan can be performed using either a transabdominal ultrasound, where a probe is placed on the lower abdomen with a gel, however a transvaginal ultrasound is the preferred method, where a small probe is inserted into the vagina for a clearer and more detailed image, especially in early pregnancy. The procedure is usually quick and painless, lasting around 10 to 15 minutes, and the sonographer or doctor will assess the pregnancy and provide the findings immediately.

• Early Pregnancy Scan: (6-8 weeks)
• Purpose: Confirm pregnancy, rule out ectopic pregnancy, and detect fetal heartbeat.
• What’s Seen: A small gestational sac, yolk sac, and embryo with a visible heartbeat.
• Timing: Typically done between 6-8 weeks, when the pregnancy is most visible.