A dating scan measures your baby to estimate how many weeks pregnant you are and confirm your due date, usually from around 8 to 14 weeks. At LPHG it costs £180, takes about 30 minutes and needs no GP referral. A written report is issued the same day.
What this scan shows
- An accurate estimate of how many weeks pregnant you are
- Your expected due date
- The presence of a heartbeat
- The number of babies present
- Whether the pregnancy is developing as expected for its stage
- The position of the placenta at this early stage
What it cannot show
- Detailed fetal anatomy, which is assessed at the 20-week scan
- The baby's sex, which is not reliable at this stage
- Chromosomal conditions, which need dedicated screening
A dating scan measures your baby in the first trimester to give an accurate estimate of your due date and confirm the pregnancy is developing as expected. It is the most reliable point to date a pregnancy.
At LPHG the scan is performed by an experienced sonographer, with a written report issued the same day and shared with your maternity team on request.
Book your dating scan
Report within 24 hours. No GP referral needed.
Frequently asked questions
When should I have a dating scan?
A dating scan is usually done between 8 and 14 weeks. Measuring the baby at this stage gives the most accurate estimate of your due date.
How accurate is the due date?
A dating scan in the first trimester is the most accurate way to estimate your due date, generally to within a few days, because early growth is very consistent.
Is this the same as an early pregnancy scan?
They overlap. An early pregnancy scan focuses on confirming a viable pregnancy from around 6 weeks, while a dating scan measures the baby to set an accurate due date.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book a dating scan directly. Your report can be shared with your maternity team or GP with your consent.
When will I get my report?
A written report is issued the same day, and the findings are explained to you during the scan.