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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Honest answers. No fluff. Just facts, reassurance, and a bit of common sense.

ScanLinc About us
  • Do I need a full bladder for my scan?
    For early pregnancy and gynaecological scans, a moderately full bladder can help us get the clearest images. It gently lifts the uterus and gives us a better window into what’s going on. Later in pregnancy, hydration still matters, but you don’t need to arrive bursting, trust us, that just makes everything more uncomfortable. Sip around 500ml of water before your appointment, and avoid emptying your bladder right beforehand unless we’ve said otherwise.
  • How can I get the clearest scan images?
    Hydration is key, not just on the day, but in the days before. We recommend drinking around 2–3 litres of water daily in the lead-up to your scan. It helps your tissue and amniotic fluid appear clearer on ultrasound. On the day, eat and drink as normal, sip up to 500ml in the hour before, and maybe bring a fizzy drink or snack in case we need to get baby moving!
  • Is ultrasound safe?
    Yes. Ultrasound scanning has been used for decades and is considered very safe. Our team follows strict guidelines set by the British Medical Ultrasound Society (BMUS), and all scans are performed by qualified, experienced professionals.
  • Who performs the scan?
    All scans are performed by HCPC-registered Sonographers with NHS experience. You’re in expert hands.
  • What if I’m expecting twins or more?
    We’ll check for that. If a multiple pregnancy is confirmed, we’ll talk you through what that means and what the next steps might be.
  • What’s the earliest I can have a pregnancy scan?
    We recommend waiting until 6 weeks gestation (counted from the first day of your last period). Before this, there’s often little to see — and attending too early can cause unnecessary worry. At 6+ weeks, we can usually detect a gestational sac, yolk sac, and sometimes a tiny flicker of a heartbeat.
  • I’ve had symptoms like cramps, spotting, or no sickness — should I be worried?
    Most symptoms, or even the sudden disappearance of symptoms, are normal. Every pregnancy is different. Try not to panic. But if something doesn’t feel right to you, we’re here to help you get clarity.
  • How do I know how far along I am?
    If your cycles are regular, count 6 weeks from the first day of your last period. If your periods are irregular or you’re not sure, count 2 weeks from your first positive pregnancy test as a rough estimate.
  • Why would I need a private scan instead of waiting for my NHS one?
    The NHS typically offers your first routine scan at 12–14 weeks. If you’ve had a previous loss, feel anxious, or just want confirmation earlier, a private scan can offer that reassurance, in a calm, unhurried setting with plenty of time to ask questions.
  • Why would I need a private scan instead of waiting for my NHS one?
    The NHS typically offers your first routine scan at 12–14 weeks. If you’ve had a previous loss, feel anxious, or just want confirmation earlier, a private scan can offer that reassurance, in a calm, unhurried setting with plenty of time to ask questions.
  • What if I’m expecting twins or more?
    We’ll check for that. If a multiple pregnancy is confirmed, we’ll talk you through what that means and what the next steps might be.
  • What’s the difference between a gene and a chromosome?
    Think of chromosomes as books, and genes as chapters. A chromosome contains thousands of genes, each with instructions for how your body works. You can have normal chromosomes but a faulty gene, or vice versa. Genetic conditions are complex, but our team is here to explain what your results mean, clearly and calmly.
  • Are all chromosomal abnormalities inherited?
    No. Many occur as random events during cell division. But some can be inherited. If we find something unusual, we’ll walk you through what that might mean for you or your baby.
  • What happens if something unexpected shows up in a scan or blood test?
    You won’t be left in the dark. If medical follow-up is needed, we’ll explain everything, help you contact your GP or local NHS services, and provide a detailed report. And we’ll always ask for your consent before sharing any information.
  • Do I need to prepare for a blood test?
    Most of our blood tests don’t require fasting, we’ll let you know if yours does. Just make sure you’re well-hydrated and feeling well.
  • How quickly will I get my results?
    This varies depending on the test. Most results are available within a few days, and we’ll always let you know the expected turnaround at the time of your appointment.
  • Will you explain the results to me?
    Absolutely. Whether it’s straightforward or complex, we’ll make sure you leave with a clear understanding. We don’t just hand over numbers, we explain what they mean.
  • What should I do before arriving?
    You’ll get a confirmation email with any scan-specific info. But in general, be hydrated (see above!), don’t arrive bursting, and bring any previous scan reports if relevant. Try to arrive 5–10 minutes early to settle in.
  • What happens when I arrive?
    If your appointment is Monday to Friday, 9–5, come straight into reception. If it’s evenings or weekends, park at the back, reply to our text/email confirmation, and wait in your car. We’ll come and get you.
  • What if I’m running late?
    Give us a call or text. We’ll always do our best to accommodate, but we may need to reschedule if there isn’t enough time to complete your scan.
  • Can I bring someone with me?
    Of course. This is your experience. We can seat 3 guests comfortably, and we don’t enforce a strict limit, just be mindful of space.
  • Can I bring children?
    Yes, but we don’t recommend it for early scans where things can be more sensitive. If you do bring children, please ensure they’re supervised and ideally kept occupied with a buggy, snack, or activity. Our clinic isn’t childproof.
  • Will I need an internal scan?
    Sometimes, yes. We always begin with an abdominal scan, but if we can’t get a clear view, we may recommend a transvaginal scan. You’ll never be pressured, it’s entirely your choice, and we’ll explain everything gently and respectfully.
  • Is the scan room private?
    Completely. Whether you’re having a joyful moment or facing something harder, your privacy and dignity come first.
  • Can I take photos or videos during my scan?
    We kindly ask that you don’t. But don’t worry, we’ll provide high-quality printed images and/or digital files depending on your scan package.
  • Will I get my results straight away?
    In most cases, yes. If you’ve had a scan, we’ll talk you through everything then and there. If you’ve had a blood test, we’ll let you know when to expect your results and how they’ll be delivered.
  • Do you offer follow-up support?
    Yes. If we feel you need a follow-up scan, we’ll explain why and often offer it free of charge. We can also point you towards additional resources or NHS support if needed.

GOT QUESTIONS? 

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