A dating scan is an ultrasound examination which is performed in order to establish the gestational age of the pregnancy. Dating scans also reveal other important information such as: the number of fetuses and gestation sacs. the presence of a heart beat. the size of the fetus, from which the gestational age is

How does dating a pregnancy work?

A typical pregnancy lasts, on average, 280 days, or 40 weeks—starting with the first day of the last normal menstrual period as day 1. An estimated due date can be calculated by following steps 1 through 3: First, determine the first day of your last menstrual period. Next, count back 3 calendar months from that date.

What happens at a dating ultrasound?

The sonographer will put gel on your abdomen and move a hand-held device called a transducer, back and forward over your skin. In some situations, such as when the scan is completed before 10 weeks of gestation or you are overweight, you may also need a vaginal scan.

Is 7 weeks too early for dating scan?

Why scan at 7 weeks? An ultrasound is performed at this stage of pregnancy to confirm your due date, confirm if you are having singles, twins or more and to visualise your babys heart beating. Before 7 weeks it may be too early to acquire this information.