Early Pregnancy Scan (4–6 weeks)

The Early Pregnancy Scan, is done between 4–6 weeks of gestation, to assess the initial stages of pregnancy. It helps confirm the pregnancy’s location (ensuring it is in the uterus), detect the gestational and yolk sacs, and occasionally identify the fetal pole. This scan is particularly important for addressing concerns like pain, bleeding, or uncertainty about gestational age. By identifying issues such as ectopic pregnancy or early miscarriage risks, this scan ensures timely medical intervention and provides reassurance about the pregnancy’s progression. Healthcare providers perform the Early Pregnancy Scan around 4–6 weeks of gestation as an initial ultrasound to assess the very early stages of pregnancy. They usually conduct it when concerns such as pain, bleeding, or uncertainty about the pregnancy's progression arise.

What Happens During an Early Pregnancy Scan?

Transabdominal vs Transvaginal Ultrasound:
- A transabdominal scan scans through the abdomen but might not provide sufficient detail, so healthcare providers often prefer a transvaginal scan (inserting a probe into the vagina) for higher image clarity in very early pregnancies.

Key Observations:
- Presence of the gestational sac.
- Location of the pregnancy (to rule out ectopic pregnancy).
- Size and shape of the yolk sac.
- Fetal heartbeat (if the embryo is developed enough).

Limitations of Early Pregnancy Ultrasound:

Patient Experience: Lack of immediate findings can cause anxiety, but this is common due to early developmental stages.
Timing: If the scan is performed very early (e.g., 4–5 weeks), it may not detect the fetal heartbeat or the fetal pole, requiring a follow-up scan called a Dating and Viability Scan at 6-8 weeks.

[caption id="attachment_2363" align="aligncenter" width="681"] Image A. Initial transvaginal ultrasonography (TVUS) shows a vague hypoechoic collection measuring 7 mm in the uterine fundus (arrow). The morphology was not typical for an intrauterine pregnancy. Image B. Subsequent TVUS 2 weeks later demonstrates an intrauterine gestational sac with an embryo with heart rate of 126 bpm.

Image A. Initial transvaginal ultrasonography (TVUS) shows a vague hypoechoic collection measuring 7 mm in the uterine fundus (arrow). The morphology was not typical for an intrauterine pregnancy. Image B. Subsequent TVUS 2 weeks later demonstrates an intrauterine gestational sac with an embryo with heart rate of 126 bpm.

Case study of a woman with vaginal bleeding whose early scans did not confirm pregnancy but subsequent scans confirmed it.[/caption] This scan plays a crucial role in identifying complications early, such as ectopic pregnancy or potential miscarriage.

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Our Fetal Medicine Services :

First Trimester Scans (Weeks 1–12):

Second Trimester Scans (Weeks 13–28):

Third Trimester Scans (Weeks 29–40):

Petals Imaging Highlights:

If you are pregnant and looking for a reliable and trustworthy ultrasound centre, book your pregnancy scans at Petals Imaging. We are operational at three locations across Kolkata. Here’s why your scan experience at Petals Imaging will be the best in Kolkata:

We have the best radiologist and fetal medicine experts in Kolkata as well as

We use the best Women’s and Obstetric Ultrasound Machines – Ge Voluson S6 in all our clinics.

Our experts TAKE TIME IN DOING YOUR SCANS making sure all the fetal parameters are assessed in detail and accurately

With their years of experience in performing complex scans and diagnosing difficult conditions, combined with the advanced tools in the ultrasound machine, our Fetal Medicine experts deliver the most reliable Pregnancy Ultrasound reports in Kolkata.

Our Clinic staff and Nurses are supportive and take all the possible care to ensure a clean, hygienic and comfortable scan experience.

FAQs About Early Pregnancy Scans*

When should I have an early pregnancy scan?

If you suspect you’re pregnant, an early scan is typically done if you experience symptoms like bleeding, cramping, or pain, or if you’ve had previous pregnancy complications.

Can an early pregnancy scan confirm pregnancy?

Yes, it can confirm the presence of a gestational sac, yolk sac, and embryo. However, very early scans (before 5 weeks) may not show all these structures.

Will the scan detect a heartbeat?

A heartbeat can usually be detected from around **5.5 to 6 weeks** of pregnancy. If it’s too early, a follow-up scan may be needed.

What if no heartbeat is detected?

If no heartbeat is seen, it could be due to very early timing. A repeat scan in 1–2 weeks is often recommended to confirm viability.

What if my pregnancy is not visible on the scan?

This may indicate it’s too early, or there could be a concern like ectopic pregnancy. Blood tests (hCG levels) and follow-up scans can help clarify.

Do I need an early scan if I don’t have symptoms?

Your doctor will recommend an Early pregnancy Scan to confirm if your are pregnant or rule out a pregnancy if ou are sufering form some issues like Baginal bleeding. Even if you are already aware (a postive pregnany test), you will still be needing this scan as it helps the doctor locate preancy and estimate due date.

Can an early scan show twins?

Yes, an early pregnancy scan can identify multiple gestations, although confirming their viability may take additional follow-up.

What if I’ve had a previous miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy?

Early scans are often recommended in such cases to ensure the pregnancy is progressing normally and located in the uterus.

What should I expect during the scan?

The procedure is quick (10–15 minutes) and painless. A gel is applied for abdominal scans, while transvaginal scans may feel slightly uncomfortable but are not painful.

Will the scan harm my baby

No, ultrasounds are safe for both the mother and baby when performed by trained professionals.

What if the scan shows a problem?

Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings, recommend further tests or scans, and guide you on the next steps.

Do I need a referral for an early scan

It depends on the healthcare system in your country. In some cases, you can book directly with a clinic, while others require a referral from a doctor.