Obstetric ultrasound uses sound waves — no radiation — to check your baby’s growth and wellbeing at each stage of pregnancy. It is safe for you and your baby when performed for medical reasons by trained professionals.
Our sonographers take the time to explain what you are seeing, and every scan is reviewed and reported by our on-site Radiologist for your doctor or midwife.
What to expect
- Most scans are performed across your abdomen with warm gel; early in pregnancy a transvaginal scan may give clearer pictures and is only done with your consent.
- Your support person is welcome in the room.
- The sonographer works through a careful checklist first — measurements come before photos.
- Allow 20–45 minutes depending on the stage of pregnancy.
Types we offer
- Dating scan — confirms the pregnancy, due date and number of babies.
- Nuchal translucency (11–13 weeks) — part of first-trimester screening, with a blood test arranged by your doctor.
- Morphology scan (18–22 weeks) — a detailed check of your baby’s development and the placenta.
- Growth & wellbeing — third-trimester checks of growth, fluid and blood flow when your doctor requests them.
How to prepare
| Examination | Typical preparation |
|---|---|
| Early pregnancy (dating, NT) | Arrive with a comfortably full bladder — drink about 750 mL of water an hour before. |
| Morphology and later scans | Usually no special preparation; follow any instructions given when you book. |
These are general guidelines — please follow the specific instructions we give you when you book or arrive.
What to bring
- Your referral and your Medicare, concession or DVA card.
- Your pregnancy record or previous scan reports, if you have them.
Your results
Our on-site Radiologist reviews every scan and reports to your referring doctor or midwife, who will go through the results at your next visit. Urgent findings are communicated the same day.
Common questions
Is ultrasound safe for my baby?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and decades of use have shown no harm when performed for medical indications by qualified staff.
Can my partner and children come in?
Your support person is very welcome. Young children are best accompanied by another adult, as the sonographer needs to concentrate during the measurement stage.
Can you tell me my baby's sex?
Often, at the morphology scan — tell the sonographer whether or not you would like to know.
Why does the scan take so long sometimes?
The sonographer is completing a detailed checklist of measurements, and babies do not always cooperate with positioning! Sometimes a short walk and a second look are needed.