Ultrasound scans are a key part of your antenatal care, but why are they so important and what can they tell us about your baby? Read on to learn more about the different types of pregnancy scans we perform at our clinic in Alderley Edge, Cheshire.
Ultrasound is a type of soundwave that is too high for human ears to hear. We can use it to create pictures of your insides in the same way as bats use soundwaves in order to see their environment. The ultrasound waves are produced by the handheld probe that we place against your stomach. The soundwaves will pass through your body, but some of them will be bounced back when they encounter different types of tissue, such as muscle or bone. The ultrasound probe will capture these echoes and turn them into pictures on the screen. It’s possible to see a lot of detail in these images, so we can see your womb, the baby inside it, and even the tiny organs that are developing inside your baby.
All women in the UK will be offered at least two routine scans during their pregnancy, but you may need to have more scans for medical reasons. We also recommend having additional scans to check in on your baby a bit more often. It can be a wonderful experience for you and it also enables us to keep a closer eye on your baby’s growth and development.
We perform all of the following pregnancy scans in Alderley Edge, Cheshire at our ultrasound centre:
Early pregnancy scansNuchal ScansSexing ScanReassurance ScanAnomaly ScanWellbeing ScanCervical Scan4D ScansAlthough different types of pregnancy scans will focus on slightly different areas of your baby’s health and development, they will all usually include some health checks and measurements of your baby’s growth. Ultrasound scans can play a very important role in your antenatal care because we can find out all of the following types of information during different scans:
Your baby’s size and whether they are growing at a normal rateWhen the baby is dueThe baby’s position, which is especially important near the birthThe position of the placenta, which can affect the birthIf your baby is at higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down’s syndromeWhether there are any visible abnormalities, such as issues with the development of the limbs, spine, brain, heart, digestive system or other organsIf there is a good blood supply through the umbilical cord to your babyWhether there are any issues with your health that could affect you or the baby, such as a weakened cervix or bleedingBeing able to find out all of this information during pregnancy can be very useful for your antenatal care. We can make sure that everything is going well, screen for certain conditions, and check for potential risks and complications. We will send a complete report on all of your pregnancy scans in Alderley Edge, Cheshire to your midwife or obstetrician so that they can use these results to provide the best possible care.
' Professional and reassuring '
Helen Campbell
The sonographer was ready as soon as I arrived, and she was extremely calming, personable and professional. The scan and blood test where efficient without feeling rushed and all very easy. These appointments can feel uneasy and make you feel anxious but I felt reassured and in professional hands the whole time
I saw Kate throughout my first pregnancy and am now doing so again with my second. She is absolutely amazing, she explains everything really clearly, and has answered all sorts of bizarre questions and worries I have had. On top of being clinically excellent she is also just the loveliest person and always a pleasure to see.
Sarah Elliott
We had the harmony test with the Birth Company and had a reassurance scan with sonographer Kirsty McGarry who was absolutely lovely and really put our minds at rest. We had been scared by our NHS dating scan and left feeling like there was something wrong. We explained the situation and was treated very professionally and with good care. Also speedy appointments also as I had phone in the morning and got an appointment by afternoon. So thankful.
Ashley and Tom
Really friendly, efficient service. Great experience overall. Had the Panorama. My appointment was with Kate who was absolutely fantastic. The results came really quickly. Have a comparison with private healthcare elsewhere and must say that The Birth Company was just how I would like to be treated when I pay for medical services - attentively, calmly, friendly, in a pleasant environment that doesn't look like hospital. Top marks!
Anna
' Efficient, friendly and always on hand to provide last minute appointments '
Anna s
The Birth Company has been excellent, providing timely scans and blood tests during my IVF treatment abroad. Staff are always friendly and extremely efficient. I would highly recommend coming here.
' Professional and friendly '
Lyndsey Dilla
When I first contacted the Birth Company I spoke to Danielle. She was fantastic. She went above & beyond to put me at easy & make the journey from Kent as stress free as possible. Every staff member that myself and my husband have come into contact with have been approachable, professional and friendly. Kate scanned me the first time and put me completely at easy. Lisa on reception is professional and very approachable. Highly recommended
' Highly recommended '
Emelie
Donald was so lovely! I was so nervous as I have a bad history and he was super quick and confirmed my baby's heartbeat as quickly as he could. He spent time showing me the baby and the anatomy and it was the best money I have ever spent! The reception girls were lovely too - considering they deal with babies day in day out they were super excited for me! Thank you so much one and all! If only I lived in London and could have all my scans with you!
Baker Street
Regent’s Park
Great Portland Street
Alderley Edge
