A viability scan is a crucial first ultrasound that helps monitor the early stages of pregnancy. Typically performed between 7 and 10 weeks of pregnancy, it is often referred to as the “dating scan” and serves several important functions.
What is a Viability Scan?
A viability scan is a pregnancy ultrasound conducted early in the pregnancy (usually between 7 and 10 weeks).
It is the first scan that many expectant mothers undergo and serves multiple purposes:
- Confirming the location of the pregnancy: It ensures that the pregnancy is located inside the uterus and not in the fallopian tubes (ectopic pregnancy).
- Confirming the viability of the pregnancy: It checks whether the baby is alive and has a heartbeat.
- Determining the number of embryos: The scan helps assess whether there is more than one embryo, which can be particularly important in the case of multiples.
- Estimating the due date (EDD): By measuring the embryo or fetus, the viability scan helps calculate the Estimated Due Date (EDD) and gives you a better understanding of your pregnancy timeline.
- Assessing early pregnancy abnormalities: It helps detect any potential early signs of complications or abnormalities, offering insight into the health of the pregnancy.
- Checking for internal bleeding: The scan can detect any signs of bleeding that may indicate complications, such as a miscarriage.
How is the Viability Scan Performed?
The viability scan is typically performed in one of two ways, depending on the circumstances and the stage of the pregnancy:
- Abdominal Scan: Most viability scans are done through the abdomen, where a gel is applied to the stomach, and a probe is moved over the skin to obtain images of the pregnancy.
- Transvaginal Scan: In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound may be necessary, especially if the pregnancy is early or if the abdominal scan is not clear enough. This involves inserting a small, specially designed probe into the vagina to obtain a more detailed image.
Both types of scans are safe, non-invasive, and quick. The procedure typically lasts around 10-15 minutes, and patients can resume normal activities immediately after the scan.
Who Should Have a Viability Scan?
While most pregnant women will undergo a viability scan, certain individuals or situations may require the scan earlier or more urgently. Some of the common cases where a viability scan is recommended include:
- Previous Miscarriage or Ectopic Pregnancy: If you’ve had a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy in the past, your doctor may recommend a viability scan to ensure the pregnancy is progressing correctly.
- Bleeding or Spotting: If you experience bleeding or spotting early in pregnancy, a viability scan can help assess whether the pregnancy is developing normally or if complications are present.
- Pain During Early Pregnancy: If you’re experiencing abdominal pain or discomfort, the scan helps rule out issues like an ectopic pregnancy or other complications.
- After IVF Treatment: If you’ve undergone In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), a viability scan can offer reassurance that the embryo is developing well.
What Happens After the Viability Scan?
After your viability scan, the next steps in pregnancy care will depend on the results of the scan and your stage of pregnancy. Some possible next steps include:
- Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): If the viability scan shows that your pregnancy is progressing well, you can proceed with NIPT after 10 weeks. NIPT is a simple blood test that screens for common genetic conditions like Down syndrome, Edward’s syndrome, and Patau syndrome, and can also determine your baby’s gender.
- Nuchal Translucency Scan: At around 12 weeks, the next recommended ultrasound is the nuchal translucency scan. This test checks the thickness of the skin at the back of your baby’s neck and is used to estimate the risk of genetic conditions such as Down syndrome. The nuchal scan is highly accurate, providing about 95% accuracy.
- Follow-Up Scans: If the viability scan raises any concerns, such as a lack of heartbeat or abnormal growth, your doctor may recommend additional scans in 7-14 days to monitor the progression of the pregnancy.
What if I Receive Unexpected News?
In some cases, the results of the viability scan may be unexpected or concerning. While these situations can be distressing, it’s essential to understand the possible outcomes and the next steps:
- Ectopic Pregnancy: The scan may reveal that the embryo is located in the fallopian tube (ectopic pregnancy). This condition requires immediate medical intervention, as an ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening if left untreated.
- No Heartbeat: If the scan shows the embryo but no heartbeat, it could indicate that the pregnancy is not viable. In this case, your doctor will likely schedule another scan in 7-14 days to determine whether the pregnancy is progressing or if a miscarriage has occurred.
- Empty Sac: Sometimes, the ultrasound may show a sac but no visible embryo. This could indicate a blighted ovum, a type of early pregnancy failure. If this happens, your doctor will recommend another scan in a week or two to confirm whether the pregnancy is still viable.
In any of these situations, you will be offered counseling and support to help you through the experience. The team at WeCare Diagnostics and Polyclinic is dedicated to providing compassionate care and will guide you through every step of the process.
Contact WeCare Diagnostics and Polyclinic
If you’re expecting and would like to undergo a viability scan, or if you need expert guidance on pregnancy care, contact WeCare Diagnostics and Polyclinic today. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the support and care you need throughout your pregnancy journey.
Call us now or visit our clinic to schedule your viability scan today!
