What is the difference between a scan at The Baby Suite and NHS scans?

The primary objective of your NHS scan is to check for abnormalities therefore confirming 

fetal gender and 3D imaging is not a standard feature in NHS scans.   The Baby Suite offers a more personable service that you can share with others. You can book a scan at any time throughout your pregnancy as this is a self referral service

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Is there a limit to the amount of scans I can have?

No. Diagnostic ultrasound is considered safe in pregnancy and there is no set limit on the number of scans you can have. Scans should always be performed for a clear reason and by trained professionals.

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Do I need to attend hospital scans?

You must still attend your hospital scans

 

I have had some bleeding in this pregnancy, can I still come for a scan?

Yes, you can still attend for scan if you are bleeding

 

I am under 10 weeks do I have to have a vaginal scan?

If you are under 10 weeks pregnant, a vaginal (internal) ultrasound scan is strongly recommended, although it is not compulsory. In very early pregnancy, the developing pregnancy is extremely small, and a vaginal scan provides clearer and more accurate images than an abdominal scan. This allows us to confirm that the pregnancy is developing in the correct location within the uterus and to exclude a pregnancy developing outside the womb (ectopic pregnancy). For this reason, a vaginal scan is recommended before 10 weeks in the interests of safety and diagnostic accuracy, however it is always your choice.

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Is an internal scan painful?  No

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What happens if you detect an abnormality?

At The Baby Suite we do not diagnose abnormalities,  however should an abnormality be detected whilst performing our well-being checks we will refer you back to your GP/Midwife for further review and diagnosis.

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What is the difference between 3D and 4D scans?

3D is a still image whilst 4D is a moving image therefore you see the baby moving in real time.

 

What is the best time to come for a 3D scan?

3D scans are amazing at all times but between 28-32 weeks seems to produce the best images

 

I would like to check the gender of my baby, is this 100% accurate?

Ultrasound alone can never give 100% accuracy but our success rates are 99%

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How many visitors can I have?

The room can accommodate up to 8 people

 

Do I need to have a full bladder?

For early reassurance scans below 10 weeks an empty bladder will be required. All scans above 10 weeks will require a full bladder

 

How do I pay?

Payment can be made online under 'Book online' 

 

Is there parking?

There is parking outside between 10.00 - 16.00 for 30 minutes or pay and display parking on adjacent roads Dacre Park and Old Road for up to 2 hours at all times

 

How do I get there?

Transport links

Lewisham DLR/ British Rail

Buses 122/178/321/261

Parking - 30 minutes free between 10.00 - 16.00

Pay & Display surrounding roads

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Do you have a lift or step-free access to the scan room?

The Baby Suite is committed to treating all clients with dignity, respect, and compassion, and to making our services as accessible as reasonably possible.   Our scan room is located on the lower ground floor of the premises. At present, there is no lift access to this level or step free access. In accordance with health and safety legislation and to protect the wellbeing of both clients and staff, we are unable to manually carry or assist wheelchair users down the stairs.  We recognise that this may present a barrier for some individuals and we sincerely apologise for any distress or inconvenience this may cause. We encourage clients with accessibility concerns to contact us prior to booking so we can discuss individual circumstances and provide clear information to support informed decision-making.

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How long will the scan last?

On average the scan will last between 5 and 10 minutes. Please be advised we only scan you for long enough to achieve the purpose of your appointment. Our aim is to protect both baby and mother in accordance with guidelines issued from the NHS and Care Quality Commission.​