Is it normal for the first scan to be so late?

[JenKat]

I was just wondering about when the first scans usually happens. I thought there is usually one at about 6 weeks. I found out I was pregnant at the end of October. I am now roughly 6-7 weeks along, but my first scan appointment isn't until January 8th. I know I am probably just being impatient but I was surprised they don't scan sooner. Did you girls all have your first scan so late?

 

[candymycandy]

If you’re In the UK then 12 weeks is standard unless there have been complications with previous pregnancies or MCs. They don’t do it until then as it’s the best time to date the pg accurately. You could get a private scan?

 

[Loula]

Alot of people may book private scans between 6 and 8 weeks but in the UK 12 week is standard for a 1st scan unless there has been any complications like bleeding or anything then the early pregnancy unit will scan you early.
The first trimester is a long old slog it really dragged for me x

 

[JenKat]

Oh right, thank you. Yes I am in the UK but not a native, so I wasn't sure. As my friends in other countries had scans at 6 weeks. But it makes sense. As my sister-in-law said to me, you can't really see much at 6 weeks anyway. I guess I will have to be patient. I do at least have my midwife consultation in early December so will at least be able to speak to someone. I think I am being impatient because I still don't know how far along I really am and am eager to get a rough due date.
Thanks for your reply, I will look forward to my 12 week scan.

 

[claire_louise9]

Are you in the uk ? If you are the first NHS scan is at 12 weeks.

 

[JenKat]

Thanks all! I guess the fact that I don't need an earlier scan is a good sign and something I should be grateful for. This is certainly all a good lesson in patience.

 

[Loula]

you could always book a 0rivate scan if the wait gets too much and also for piece of mind

 

[JenKat]

I am considering that if I can find somewhere not too expensive. Maybe I can manage to hold out though. I'll perhaps see how I feel after the conversation with midwife.

 

[Cinnamon2]

Yeap, I have been told to wait for a cAll around 12 weeks for the scan and first midwife appt.

I noticed on the NHS pregnancy site, it mentioned a test is meant to be done before 10 weeks pregnancy .... I copied this from the NHS SITE..

All pregnant women in England are offered a blood test to find out if they carry a gene for thalassaemia, and those at high risk of being a sickle cell carrier are also offered a test for sickle cell. If the mother is found to be a carrier, screening is also offered to the father.
This test should be offered before you're 10 weeks pregnant. It's important the test is done early – if you find out you're a carrier, you and your partner will have the option of further tests to know if your baby will be affected.


So what happens to us all that don't see a midwife until 12 weeks.. is

 

[Shanivy]

Yeap, I have been told to wait for a cAll around 12 weeks for the scan and first midwife appt.

I noticed on the NHS pregnancy site, it mentioned a test is meant to be done before 10 weeks pregnancy .... I copied this from the NHS SITE..

All pregnant women in England are offered a blood test to find out if they carry a gene for thalassaemia, and those at high risk of being a sickle cell carrier are also offered a test for sickle cell. If the mother is found to be a carrier, screening is also offered to the father.
This test should be offered before you're 10 weeks pregnant. It's important the test is done early – if you find out you're a carrier, you and your partner will have the option of further tests to know if your baby will be affected.


So what happens to us all that don't see a midwife until 12 weeks.. is

I think this is tested for at your booking appointment when they take bloods. That should be before your scan. xx

 

[Loula]

Every area is different.
Most people I have seen on here do have their booking in before 12 weeks.
When I had my first daughter I didn't have any bloods done until after my 12 week scan this was booking in bloods and the screening bloods.
Ring your midwife and tell them your concerns as if you want the screening done it has to be done between 11 and 14 weeks for downs, Edwards and pataus.

 

[JenKat]

I now have a booking appointment with the midwife on December 6th. So that should be before my 12 week mark. So hopefully they will do the tests then.

 

[Cinnamon2]

I'm 10 weeks and just received my midwife appointment which is on the 12 weeks. No mention of a scan yet

 

[KHTW]

Your first scan should be no later than 14 weeks, so hopefully you won't wait long x

 

[JenKat]

I'm 10 weeks and just received my midwife appointment which is on the 12 weeks. No mention of a scan yet

It might just be different in different areas but I received both letter in the same envelope, for the scan and for the midwife appointment.