Viability Scan

This scan is done between 7 -11 weeks of gestational age. This is usually the first scan done during pregnancy. Viability scan checks for -

• 1. Location of the pregnancy – to make sure that it is inside the uterus not ectopic
• 2. Number of embryos (to see whether it is a single embryo or multiple)
• 3. Demonstrate the fetal heart rate
• 4. Dating of pregnancy (to assign the correct estimated due date or EDD)
• 5. Look for adnexal masses
• 6. Look for the presence of intrauterine bleeding
• 7. In certain cases, fetal abnormalities may also be suspected.

The scan is done both trans-abdominally and trans-vaginally

What is the next step I should have after the viability scan?

The next ultrasound scan recommended for all pregnancies is the nuchal translucency scan performed at 12 weeks.

What if I were to receive unexpected news?

Unfortunately, in some cases, the viability scan may show that:

• 1. The embryo is inside the fallopian tube (ectopic pregnancy)
• 2. The embryo is seen but there is no heartbeat
• 3. The sac is seen but there is no visible embryo. In this case, we recommend that you have a further ultrasound scan in 7-14 days to determine if the pregnancy is viable.

In any of these cases, you will be explained the findings and further management will be discussed.