What to Expect at Your 12-Week Dating Scan

Your 12-week dating scan is one of the most magical moments of early pregnancy. For many parents, it is the very first time they get to see their baby — a tiny, wriggling figure with a beating heart and recognisable features. Knowing what to expect can help you feel fully prepared and at ease.

What Is the 12-Week Dating Scan?

The 12-week scan is usually carried out between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. It is called a dating scan because one of its main purposes is to confirm how far along you are and calculate your estimated due date (EDD). At this stage, your baby is roughly the size of a plum — about 5–6 cm — and the scan typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

What Does the 12-Week Scan Check?

• Your baby’s gestational age and estimated due date via Crown-Rump Length (CRL)

• Your baby’s heartbeat — normally between 110 and 160 beats per minute

• Whether you are expecting twins, triplets, or more

• Early anatomy — the head, brain, spine, limbs, and abdominal wall

• Nuchal Translucency (NT) measurement to assess risk of chromosomal conditions

How to Prepare

• Drink water before your appointment — a full bladder improves image quality

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing

• Bring your partner or a loved one — this is a moment to share

• No fasting required — you can eat and drink normally beforehand

Book Your 12-Week Scan at MyBaby Ultrasound

At MyBaby Ultrasound in Camberley, we offer a warm, unhurried environment where every scan is a special experience. Our experienced sonographers will guide you through every stage of the scan and ensure you leave with beautiful scan images to treasure forever.