Early pregnancy scan (dating and viability scan)
Quick answer: An early pregnancy scan checks that the pregnancy is inside the uterus, counts how many babies there are, looks for a heartbeat and estimates how many weeks pregnant you are. It is usually done in the first few weeks after a positive pregnancy test, especially after IVF or with bleeding, pain or a past miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 15 to 20 minutes
- Before the testIt is often done as a transvaginal scan with an empty bladder; follow the instructions you are given.
- In fertility careAfter IVF or other fertility treatment, this scan confirms where the pregnancy is and whether a heartbeat is seen.
How the test is done
- 1You usually empty your bladder first for an internal (transvaginal) scan
- 2You lie on your back with knees bent and a sheet over your lower body
- 3A thin probe with a cover and gel is placed gently into the vagina
- 4The sonographer looks for the pregnancy sac, baby, heartbeat and measures size
- 5Sometimes a scan over the belly is done instead, with a fuller bladder
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Measurements are compared with what is expected for the stage of pregnancy; your doctor will explain what your report means for you and your baby.
If the result is outside the usual range
The scan can show a pregnancy inside the uterus with a heartbeat, a pregnancy too early to see a heartbeat yet, twins or more, a pregnancy that has stopped growing, or no pregnancy in the uterus, which can raise concern about an ectopic pregnancy. A repeat scan is often needed before a firm answer can be given.
Who usually has this test
Women with a positive pregnancy test after IVF or other fertility treatment, and anyone with bleeding, pain or a past miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
Risks and aftercare
There is no radiation, and an internal scan does not cause miscarriage; you may have light spotting from the probe, and seek urgent care for heavy bleeding or one-sided pain.
Names and options
Also called: early pregnancy scan, viability scan, dating scan, first trimester scan, 6 week scan
Listed by the hospital as
- EARLY PREGNANCY SCAN
Where this test fits in fertility care
- 1Fertility work-up
- 2Screening before IVF or IUI
- 3During treatment
- 4After embryo transferThis test
- 5Pregnancy check-ups
- 6If treatment has not worked
The usual order. See every test at each stage →
Questions about this test
When can a heartbeat be seen on an early pregnancy scan?
A heartbeat is often seen on a transvaginal scan from around 6 to 7 weeks of pregnancy. If it is too early, your doctor may ask you to repeat the scan in 1 to 2 weeks.
When is the first scan done after IVF?
Many clinics do the first scan about 2 to 3 weeks after a positive pregnancy blood test. Your clinic will give you the exact timing.
Can an internal scan harm an early pregnancy?
No, a transvaginal scan does not cause miscarriage. The probe sits in the vagina and does not reach the uterus, and it gives a clearer early picture than a belly scan.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.