An ultrasound scan is a very safe procedure as it uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the body part that is being scanned. A hand-held ultrasound probe is used, along with ultrasound gel to make the procedure more comfortable and to allow the sound waves to transit and return to the probe.
We perform obstetric ultrasound examinations (link to section below) to monitor the progress of a pregnancy, general ultrasound examinations to help make a diagnosis, monitor a condition, aid in decision making and interventional examinations such as biopsies, fine needle aspirations (FNAs) and drainages.
Ultrasound scans at our hospitals are by appointment only.
Obstetric ultrasound examinations
Obstetric ultrasound examinations are performed by Ultrasound Practitioners. Ultrasounds in pregnancy are used to:
- check the size of your baby (this gives us a better idea of how many weeks pregnant you are and when your due date will be)
- check if you're having more than one baby
- detect some abnormalities
- look at the position of your baby and the placenta
- check that your baby is growing normally.
An appointment to have an ultrasound scan will usually take about 20 to 45 minutes dependant on the type of examination. Visit https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/your-pregnancy-care/ultrasound-scans to find out more.
Prior to the examination, you should have been given a leaflet on NHS fetal anomaly screening programme (FASP), downloadable at https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/nhs-fetal-anomaly-screening-programme-fasp (screening for Down’s syndrome, Edwards’ syndrome and Patau’s syndrome) and informed of the ultrasound exam preparation needed, i.e. for nuchal examinations (12-week gestation scans) you should have a full bladder to facilitate clearer visualisation of the small baby, for the anomaly 20-week scan and growth scans this is not needed.
It is our policy that one accompanying adult only should attend the ultrasound scan, to allow the ultrasound practitioner to concentrate and focus on the best interests of the unborn baby and the mother. We do not recommend having young children at the scan. We will only allow it in exceptional circumstances, as we do understand that it can be difficult for some families to find childcare. When patients have no other choice
and need to bring a young child, we have requested that they bring them in a pushchair or buggy to ensure their safety during the scan.
We do not allow the use of mobile phones or other recording equipment to take place within the ultrasound scan rooms due to the medical nature of the work being undertaken by the ultrasound practitioner.
When you attend the obstetric ultrasound department you should report to our reception desk where we will check you in.
You will then be called to one of the scan rooms. Your medical and obstetric history will be reviewed prior to the scan taking place and you will be advised on what will be done during your scan. Once you are happy with this, the scan of your baby will commence.
After the scan, a full written report will be given to you in your pregnancy book or ultrasound pregnancy passport (at Southend hospital only) and any further instructions given.
We are a teaching and training hospital. Therefore, during your appointment, there may be a trainee performing the examination with a professional qualified member of staff supervising the examination. They will all introduce themselves and you should be asked whether you are comfortable to continue with the number of people present. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, please let the team know and they will accommodate your request.
Fetal sexing is offered by MSE (at the anomaly scan only: 18 weeks and 0 days to 20 weeks and 6 days gestation), but there is no requirement to determine fetal gender within the NHS FASP in England. There is no programme requirement to recall the woman if the fetal sex is not identified due to unclear view or fetal position. Fetal sexing is the opinion of the Ultrasound practitioner only and will only be given verbally to the patient at the time of the scan. This is never guaranteed to be 100% accurate.
Whilst every effort is made to see you on time, delays can occur due to the nature of the clinics, but you can expect to be kept informed of when you are likely to be seen. To find out more, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/nhs-fetal-anomaly-screening-programme-fasp.
For easy read patient information, visit https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/61a0baa7d3bf7f055d72d602/STFYAYB_easy_read_T13_T18_T21_section_with_NIPT_Nov_2021.pd
We provide an extensive range of diagnostic and interventional services including X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, fluoroscopy, interventional radiology, nuclear medicine, breast, PET CT and Medical Photography.