Second trimester scans

14-22 weeks

Reassurance scan

A scan is not usually necessary at this stage of pregnancy, but you might have one if you have had bleeding or have been unwell. The baby’s head, abdomen, and leg length will be measured, the placenta can be located and the amniotic fluid and umbilical cord assessed.

Time needed for the scan: About 10 minutes.

17 weeks onwards

Sexing scan

A scan at this stage can determine the sex of your baby. We also measure the baby and assess his or her wellbeing. Our sexing scans are highly reliable but may be more difficult if the woman is very overweight, or if the baby is in an unfavourable position. We will not tell you the sex of the baby if we are not sure about it, but it is very unusual for us not to be able to do so.

Time needed for the scan: About 15-20 minutes.

21-23 weeks

Anomaly scan

This is a very thorough scan to check your baby's heart, brain, spine, bowel and limbs, to detect any abnormalities. This can never completely guarantee that the baby will be normal, but it gives very strong reassurance. We also check the placenta, amniotic fluid and the umbilical cord. If you wish, you can find out the sex of your baby from this scan.

Time needed for the scan: About 20-30 minutes.