Pregnancy is one of the most special journeys in life, filled with excitement, hope, and sometimes a few worries. As your baby grows, it’s natural to want to know that everything is progressing as it should. That’s where wellbeing scans come in.
A wellbeing scan is a type of ultrasound that checks how your baby is growing and developing. It’s a chance for you to see your baby again, hear the heartbeat, and gain reassurance about their health and position. It can also help catch any concerns early.
Let’s take a closer look at what a wellbeing scan is, when it’s done, what it checks for, and how it helps both baby and parents.
What Is a Wellbeing Scan?
A wellbeing scan is an ultrasound that looks at your baby’s development during pregnancy. It’s typically done after 24 weeks, but can be offered any time in the second or third trimester.
This scan is sometimes called a growth scan or late pregnancy scan, and it focuses on:
- Measuring how big your baby is
- Checking how your baby is growing compared to their gestational age
- Checking the position of the baby (head down, breech, etc.)
- Looking at the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby
- Observing movements and heartbeat
- Checking the position of the placenta
Unlike early scans that focus on dating the pregnancy or detecting problems, a wellbeing scan is more about monitoring progress and offering peace of mind.
When Can You Have a Wellbeing Scan?
A wellbeing scan can be done at any point in the second or third trimester, but most parents choose to have it:
- Around 26 to 32 weeks
- If there are any concerns raised during previous scans
- If the bump is measuring smaller or larger than expected
- If you’re expecting twins or multiples
- If you’ve had complications in a previous pregnancy
You can have more than one wellbeing scan throughout your pregnancy if needed.
Why Have a Wellbeing Scan?
There are many reasons parents choose to have a wellbeing scan. Some are referred by a midwife or doctor, while others choose it privately for reassurance.
Here are a few common reasons:
- Reassurance – To check on the baby’s movements, heartbeat, and growth
- Monitoring size – Especially if you have gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or are carrying multiples
- Checking position – Knowing whether the baby is head-down or breech helps with birth planning
- Tracking amniotic fluid levels – Too much or too little fluid may need monitoring
- Placenta position – To check if the placenta is safely away from the cervix
- Previous complications – If you had a difficult pregnancy or birth before
Even if your pregnancy is going smoothly, a wellbeing scan can give you extra confidence and connection to your baby.
What Happens During a Wellbeing Scan?
The scan is quick, safe, and completely painless. Here’s what you can expect during your visit:
- Arrival at the clinic – You’ll be welcomed into a calm and private room. You may be asked to have a full bladder depending on how far along you are.
- Ultrasound scan – The sonographer will gently apply gel to your belly and move a small probe (called a transducer) over your skin.
- Viewing the baby – You’ll be able to see your baby on the screen as the sonographer measures and checks everything.
- Discussion and report – After the scan, the specialist will explain what they saw and may give you a printed report or images to take home.
The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you can bring a partner or family member along for support and to share the experience.
What Does the Scan Check?
A wellbeing scan gives a detailed look at your baby’s health. It checks:
- Growth measurements – Head, abdomen, and thigh bone length to estimate size and weight
- Heartbeat – To make sure it’s strong and regular
- Movement – Watching your baby move helps show they’re doing well
- Position – Head-down, breech, transverse (sideways), etc.
- Placenta location – Whether it’s safely placed and working well
- Amniotic fluid levels – The right amount of fluid helps protect your baby
- Blood flow (optional) – Some scans include a Doppler check of blood flow in the umbilical cord
All of this helps give a clear picture of your baby’s wellbeing and can guide your midwife or doctor in your ongoing care.
Is a Wellbeing Scan Safe?
Yes, ultrasound scans are completely safe for both mother and baby. They use sound waves — not radiation — to create the images.
You can have multiple scans during pregnancy without risk. The important thing is that they are carried out by qualified professionals using the right equipment.
Do You Need a Wellbeing Scan?
In many cases, the NHS provides two routine scans — one at 12 weeks (dating scan) and one at 20 weeks (anomaly scan). After that, you may not have more unless there’s a medical reason.
That’s why many parents choose to have a private wellbeing scan, especially in the later weeks of pregnancy. It’s an added layer of reassurance and a chance to check in on your baby’s progress.
You may benefit from a wellbeing scan if:
- You feel reduced movement
- You want to know the position of your baby
- You want to confirm growth is on track
- You’re planning for birth and need more information
What Will You Receive?
- Most clinics will give you:
- A detailed growth report
- Printed images of your baby
- Estimated fetal weight
- Information about position and fluid levels
- Optional extras like 4D viewing or video clips
You may also be advised to follow up with your midwife if anything needs closer attention.
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy brings joy, but it can also bring uncertainty. A wellbeing scan is a helpful and safe way to check in on your baby, especially as your due date gets closer. It offers a clearer view of your baby’s size, heartbeat, and movements — giving you confidence that everything is going well.
Whether you’re seeking reassurance, monitoring a high-risk pregnancy, or just want another chance to bond with your baby, a wellbeing scan is a simple, gentle way to feel more connected and informed.
If you’re thinking about booking a wellbeing scan, choose a trusted clinic with experienced staff who will take the time to explain everything and make the experience special for you.