Скачать или смотреть Viability Scan Explained: Early Pregnancy Check for Fetal Heartbeat & Health

What is Viability scan ?
A viability scan is an early pregnancy ultrasound usually performed between 6 to 9 weeks of gestation to confirm that the pregnancy is developing normally. It helps determine the presence of a fetal heartbeat, the location of the pregnancy (to rule out ectopic pregnancy), and whether it is a single or multiple pregnancy. The scan also assesses the size of the embryo to estimate the gestational age and examines the condition of the gestational sac and yolk sac. This scan is important for identifying any early complications, such as a missed miscarriage or blighted ovum, and provides reassurance to the expectant parents about the health and progress of the pregnancy.

When is this scan done?
The viability scan is generally performed between 6 to 9 weeks of gestation, counting from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). At this stage, the embryo is usually visible on ultrasound, and the fetal heartbeat can often be detected. A scan done too early—before 6 weeks—may not show enough details, which is why doctors typically wait until at least the 6th week unless there are specific concerns like bleeding, abdominal pain, or a history of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

In high-risk pregnancies or in cases of assisted reproduction (like IVF), this scan may be scheduled more precisely, often around 6 weeks. In a normal pregnancy, most women have the viability scan between 7 to 8 weeks, when clearer information can be obtained about the embryo's size, heart activity, and overall development. If the results are inconclusive in an early scan, a repeat scan is usually advised after 7–10 days.

Why is this scan done?
A viability scan is done to confirm that an early pregnancy is progressing normally and is located in the right place. It helps detect a fetal heartbeat, which is a reassuring sign that the pregnancy is viable (i.e., the baby is alive and developing). This scan also helps in confirming the location of the pregnancy—whether it's inside the uterus or outside (as in the case of an ectopic pregnancy, which can be dangerous).

Additionally, the scan checks the gestational sac, yolk sac, and embryo, helping estimate how far along the pregnancy is (gestational age) and whether it is a singleton or multiple pregnancy. It is especially important if the woman is experiencing pain, bleeding, or has a history of miscarriage, as it can detect early signs of complications like missed miscarriage, blighted ovum, or molar pregnancy. Overall, it provides early reassurance to both the doctor and the expectant parents about the health and progress of the pregnancy.




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