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What is an obstetric ultrasound?
An obstetric ultrasound is a scan that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your baby, the placenta, the amniotic fluid and your uterus.
The sonographer applies a warm gel to your tummy and moves a small handheld probe across the skin. The probe sends sound waves into your body and listens for the echoes that bounce back. A computer turns those echoes into a real-time image on the screen.
There is no radiation involved. In early pregnancy, your sonographer may also offer an internal scan (a slim probe placed gently inside the vagina) if it gives a clearer view, and they'll explain why and ask first.
What an obstetric ultrasound can show
Depending on the type of scan and how far along you are, an obstetric ultrasound can:
- Confirm pregnancy and estimate how many weeks you are (dating or viability scan)
- Show the baby's heartbeat and movements
- Check whether you're having one baby or more
- Screen in the first trimester (the nuchal translucency scan, usually at 11 to 14 weeks)
- Check the baby's anatomy in detail (morphology scan, usually at 18 to 22 weeks)
- Monitor growth, position and the placenta later in the pregnancy
- Investigate symptoms such as bleeding or pain
If you're not sure which scan you've been booked for or what to expect, give us a call. We're happy to talk it through.
Types of obstetric ultrasound we offer
Different stages of pregnancy call for different scans. Your GP, midwife or obstetrician will tell you which one you need.
- Early pregnancy / dating scan
Usually 6 to 10 weeks. Confirms pregnancy, checks the heartbeat and works out how far along you are. - Viability scan
6 to 9 weeks. Checks how the pregnancy is developing when there has been bleeding, pain or a previous loss. - Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan
11 to 14 weeks. Part of first-trimester screening for chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome. - Morphology (anatomy) scan
18 to 22 weeks. A detailed check of your baby's anatomy, placenta and amniotic fluid. - Growth & wellbeing scan
From 28 weeks. Checks your baby's size, position, amniotic fluid and the placenta. - Cervical length scan
Assesses the cervix when there is a history of premature labour or other pregnancy concerns. - Doppler studies
Checks blood flow in the placenta and baby. Used to monitor growth or higher-risk pregnancies. - Twins or multiples scan
Ongoing monitoring of twins or multiples, including chorionicity and growth comparison. - Bleeding or pain assessment
A scan to look into pain or bleeding in pregnancy, when your doctor asks for one.
30 to 45 minutes
Time at the clinic
No radiation
Safe in pregnancy
No sedation
Drive yourself home
What to expect on the day
- Check in
Bring your referral and Medicare card. Your sonographer will explain what's about to happen and answer any questions you have. You can bring a partner or support person with you. - Getting comfortable
You'll lie on a bed with your tummy exposed. The sonographer will tuck towels into your clothes to keep the gel away from them, then apply warm gel to your skin. - The scan
The sonographer moves a small handheld probe across your tummy, gently pressing in different spots to get the best view. You may be asked to change position or walk around briefly if your baby is in an awkward spot. - If an internal scan is needed
Early in pregnancy, an internal scan sometimes gives a clearer picture. The sonographer will explain why, ask your permission, and step out while you get ready. It isn't usually painful, though it can feel a little odd. - You're done
The sonographer wipes the gel off and you can use the bathroom. You can go straight back to your day. The report usually goes to your referring doctor or midwife within 24 to 48 hours.
Tell us before your scan if you:
- Are not sure how many weeks pregnant you are
- Have had any bleeding, pain or cramping
- Have had complications in a previous pregnancy
- Are carrying twins or more
- Have had recent surgery on your tummy or pelvis
- Would like to know, or would prefer not to know, your baby's sex
These details help us plan your scan. Your referring doctor and our sonographer will decide which views are most important on the day.
Preparation
We accept walk-ins for ultrasound during our opening hours. Some scans need you to fast or arrive with a full bladder, so please call us first if you're not sure.
How to prepare depends on how far along you are. We'll confirm the exact instructions when you book.
If you're up to about 14 weeks
Please arrive with a comfortably full bladder. Empty it 1 hour before your appointment, then drink 2 to 3 glasses of water and try not to go to the toilet again until after the scan. A full bladder lifts the uterus into a clearer position for the scan.
From the second trimester onwards
A full bladder is usually not needed. Eat and drink normally.
What to wear
Loose, comfortable clothing that lets you easily uncover your tummy. A two-piece outfit usually works best.
Other tips
Avoid putting heavy creams or oils on your tummy on the day. They can make the gel slide poorly and affect the image quality.
What to bring
- Your referral letter from your GP, obstetrician or midwife
- Medicare card, and private health card if you have one
- Any previous pregnancy ultrasounds or reports
- A partner, friend or family member if you'd like to bring one
- A bottle of water (especially if you've been asked to arrive with a full bladder)
- Wet wipes or tissues for any leftover gel
What it looks like
An illustration of the room and the scanner.
Cost and results
- What it costs
The cost varies between $195 and $295, depending on the scan. We confirm the exact cost when you book.
Read our billing information - How you'll see results
Your report goes electronically to your referring doctor or midwife, usually within 24 to 48 hours. You can also view your images through the Scope patient portal.
Access the patient portal
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare for my pregnancy ultrasound?
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If you're up to about 14 weeks, arrive with a comfortably full bladder. From the second trimester onwards, a full bladder usually isn't needed.
Wear something loose and comfortable that lets you expose your tummy easily. Avoid heavy creams or oils on your skin on the day of the scan.
Will it hurt?
The scan is not usually painful. You may feel some pressure as the sonographer moves the probe, and a full bladder can be uncomfortable.
Is ultrasound safe for my baby?
Ultrasound is considered very safe when used for medical reasons. It uses sound waves rather than radiation, and decades of research have not shown harmful effects on mother or baby.
Will I find out the sex?
Often yes, usually from the morphology scan at around 18 to 22 weeks. It depends on how the baby is lying on the day. Let us know at the start of the appointment if you want to find out or if you'd rather not know.
Can my partner or family come in with me?
Yes. A partner, friend or family member is welcome in the scanning room. Older children are best looked after by another adult in the waiting area so the sonographer can focus on the scan. We can talk this through when you book.
How long does it take?
Most pregnancy ultrasounds take 30 to 45 minutes. The morphology scan at 18 to 22 weeks can take longer if your baby is in an awkward position.
Do I need a referral?
Yes. Pregnancy ultrasounds need a referral from your GP, obstetrician or midwife. You can book before you have it. Bring the original letter on the day, or a photo of it on your phone.
Why might I need an internal (transvaginal) scan?
In early pregnancy, an internal scan often gives a clearer picture of the baby and uterus than scanning through your tummy. Your sonographer will only suggest it when it adds something useful, and they'll ask first.
Can I get photos to take home?
Yes, most patients get printed images to take home. You can also view your scan images in the Scope patient portal, usually within about 2 hours of your scan.
Ready to book?
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Visit us
M-City Shopping Centre, Shop T03, Ground Floor, 2107-2125 Princes Highway, Clayton VIC 3168
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1300 101 695
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Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturday: By appointment only (select dates)
Saturday: By appointment only (select dates)
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