Early Pregnancy Viability Scan in Gateshead
Worried about your pregnancy or still waiting for your first NHS scan? See your baby from as early as 6 weeks, with same-day appointments and no GP referral needed.
What's included in your Early Pregnancy Viability Scan
Everything you need for complete peace of mind during the earliest stages of your pregnancy
Confirmation of an intrauterine pregnancy
Detection of fetal heartbeat (where visible)
Confirmation of the number of babies
Early pregnancy dating measurements
Assessment of pregnancy viability
Transvaginal scan if clinically indicated
Diagnostic ultrasound scan & sonographer report
Printed and/or digital images
Discuss your scan findings with the sonographer
No GP referral required
Up to 7 guests welcome in the scan room
Early Pregnancy Viability Scan – 6 to 9 Weeks 6 Days
An Early Pregnancy Viability Scan at Numi Scan Gateshead is a private ultrasound scan for women who are between 6 and 9 weeks 6 days pregnant and would like reassurance in the earliest stages of pregnancy, before their NHS dating scan, which is usually offered between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy.
Our experienced sonographers will assess your pregnancy and explain the findings at the time of the scan. The examination can confirm that the pregnancy is developing within the uterus, the presence of a fetal heartbeat where visible, early pregnancy dating measurements, the number of babies, and an assessment of pregnancy viability.
Most early pregnancy scans are performed over the abdomen (transabdominally). In some circumstances, particularly before 10 weeks of pregnancy, a transvaginal scan may be recommended to obtain clearer images and allow a more accurate assessment. Your sonographer will explain the procedure and discuss the most appropriate approach for you.
Appointments are available without a GP referral and can often be booked on the same day or next day. The scan costs £89 and includes a diagnostic ultrasound scan, a sonographer report, printed and/or digital images, and the opportunity to discuss your scan findings with the sonographer.
If the scan findings suggest that further assessment may be required, you will be advised on the appropriate next steps and available NHS services in line with local care pathways.
Important: If you are experiencing pain, vaginal bleeding, dizziness, shoulder tip pain, fainting, or any other concerning symptoms, you should seek medical advice from your GP, midwife, NHS 111, local Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit (EPAU), or emergency services as appropriate. This scan provides information about your pregnancy at the time of examination and does not replace routine NHS maternity care, medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment.
Book Your Early Pregnancy Viability Scan
Book Your Early Pregnancy Viability ScanViability or Reassurance?
If you are less than 10 weeks pregnant, we recommend the Early Pregnancy Viability Scan. If you are 10 weeks or beyond, the Early Pregnancy Reassurance Scan may be more suitable. If you're unsure, our team will be happy to advise.
View the Reassurance ScanWhat is an Early Pregnancy Viability Scan?
The Early Pregnancy Viability Scan is designed to provide reassurance during the earliest stages of pregnancy. This scan focuses on confirming that your pregnancy is developing within the uterus and progressing as expected. Whether you have recently received a positive pregnancy test, experienced previous pregnancy loss, conceived through fertility treatment, or would simply like early reassurance, this scan can provide valuable information.
During your scan, our experienced and registered sonographer will assess:
- Confirmation of an intrauterine pregnancy
- Detection of fetal heartbeat (where visible)
- Confirmation of the number of babies
- Early pregnancy dating measurements
- Assessment of pregnancy viability
- Transvaginal scan if clinically indicated
You'll see your baby live on our 90-inch projector screen and two 46-inch side TVs in a calm, non-clinical room, and you're welcome to bring up to 7 guests to share the moment. Viability scans are available from 6 weeks. While a heartbeat can often be seen from this stage, we recommend booking from 7 weeks onwards for the most reliable assessment. Once you reach 10 weeks, our Early Pregnancy Reassurance Scan may be more suitable. Many parents come back from 16 weeks for our Well-Being Scan. See the complete pregnancy timeline to plan ahead.
Important Information: In some very early pregnancies, ultrasound findings may be inconclusive due to gestational age or the timing of implantation. Where further assessment is clinically required, our sonographer may recommend a follow-up scan. Any follow-up appointment is offered solely at the discretion of the sonographer based on clinical findings and is not routinely included as part of the package.
When is the best time to book your viability scan?
The best time depends on what you want to see and why. Here's a week-by-week guide to help you pick the right window:
- 6 weeks: A gestational sac is usually visible, but the heartbeat may not yet be detectable on a transabdominal scan. We'd suggest waiting until 7 weeks for the most reassuring result. See our 6-week milestone guide.
- 7–8 weeks: The earliest reliable window for confirming a heartbeat with a transabdominal scan. This is when most early pregnancy viability scans at Numi Scan Gateshead happen.
- 9 weeks: Your baby is around 2.5cm long and you'll often see early movement. The Early Pregnancy Viability Scan covers up to 9 weeks 6 days.
- 10 weeks onwards: Once you reach 10 weeks our Early Pregnancy Reassurance Scan (£75) becomes more suitable. You also become eligible for our NIPT Test, DNA-based screening for chromosomal conditions including Down's syndrome.
If you're under 7 weeks and very anxious, our honest advice is to wait if you can. It's easier emotionally to come for a scan that gives a clear answer than to risk an inconclusive result. We'll always be straight with you about timing when you call to book on 0191 422 9570.
Why have a private early pregnancy scan?
The NHS does an excellent job, but the system is designed for medical need, not reassurance. Routine NHS care doesn't include a scan before 11–14 weeks unless you have specific symptoms (bleeding, pain, or a history of recurrent miscarriage). For most women between 6 and 11 weeks who simply want peace of mind, the NHS isn't an option. That's why private early pregnancy scans exist.
Booking privately at Numi Scan Gateshead means:
- No GP referral needed. Book direct online, and read our full guide on how it works.
- Same-day to 7-day availability, vs the typical 2–6+ week NHS wait.
- Heartbeat from 7 weeks, not 11, so you see your baby weeks earlier than the NHS dating scan.
- Up to 7 guests welcome in our spacious room with a large projector screen and two 46-inch side TVs, so you can share the moment with the people who matter.
- Professional obstetric report given to you on the day, plus 4 printed A6 images and all your digital images.
- Free follow-up scan if your scan is inconclusive or clinically necessary.
A private early scan complements your NHS care. It doesn't replace your scheduled NHS dating scan or 20-week anomaly scan, both of which you should still attend. For the full comparison, see our private vs NHS ultrasound guide, or read about how private ultrasound costs compare across the UK.
Early Pregnancy Viability Scan — NHS vs Private
Your NHS care centres on the 11–14 week dating scan and the 20-week anomaly scan, both rigorous, clinically important appointments we always recommend you keep. If you'd like the additional peace of mind of seeing your baby's heartbeat earlier than 11 weeks, a private early pregnancy scan at Numi Scan Gateshead is designed to complement your NHS pathway. We confirm viability, dating and ectopic location from as early as 6 weeks, with no GP referral needed and no waiting list, supporting your NHS care, not replacing it.
| Aspect | NHS | Numi Scan Gateshead |
|---|---|---|
| Earliest available scan | 11–14 weeks (NHS dating scan) | ✓From 6 weeks |
| GP referral required | Yes, typically arranged via your midwife or GP if clinically indicated | ✓No referral needed, book direct online |
| Average wait time | 2–6+ weeks from booking | ✓Same day to 7 days |
| Reassurance scans for healthy pregnancies | Reserved for cases with clinical indication | ✓Yes, designed for peace of mind |
| Heartbeat confirmation | Only at the 12-week NHS dating scan | ✓From 7 weeks |
| Ectopic location check | Only if symptoms are present | ✓Always included |
| Multiple pregnancy check | At the 12-week dating scan | ✓At this scan, from 6 weeks |
| Printed images & digital keepsakes | Not provided | ✓4× A6 prints + all images digitally |
| Written obstetric report | Letter to your GP only | ✓Professional report given to you |
Wondering whether you can book without going through your GP? You can. Read our full guide on private ultrasounds without a referral for how it works.
Why choose Numi Scan Gateshead?
From your first reassuring heartbeat through to the rest of your pregnancy journey, our specialist sonographers and CQC-regulated clinic are designed around one thing — making the moment unforgettable while giving you complete peace of mind.
No GP referral needed
Five-star reviews, all since 2025
North East Prestige Award winners 2025/26
CQC-regulated clinic
experienced and registered sonographers
Experienced & qualified sonographers
Up to 7 guests welcome
Same-day appointments available
Free follow-up scan if needed
State-of-the-art ultrasound technology
ALARA-compliant scanning
Luxurious & relaxing environment
Customer Reviews
Hero H.Mahmud
4 days ago
Amazing service all round, fantastic staff and a great all round experience."
Andrew Liddle
a week ago
Brilliant service. Couldn't be happier with the whole process. The woman doing the scan was great very reassuring, receptionist was great too. We'll definitely be coming back.
Iuliana Toma
3 weeks ago
Thank you so much
Sophie Atkins
3 weeks ago
Amazing experience at numi scan for our gender reveal!! The staff are very friendly and informative the whole experience was perfect
Francesca Atkinson
4 weeks ago
I would like to thank all the staff at numi scan, we have attended 3 scans all together then also got a free wellbeing scan for our loyalty. Always amazing, always gives us reassurance, we get the same sonographer every time and she really is a delight. Couldn’t thankyou all enough for making this journey extra special 🥰
Chloe Leigh
a month ago
Always makes me feel welcomed!
Hero H.Mahmud
4 days ago
Amazing service all round, fantastic staff and a great all round experience."
Andrew Liddle
a week ago
Brilliant service. Couldn't be happier with the whole process. The woman doing the scan was great very reassuring, receptionist was great too. We'll definitely be coming back.
Iuliana Toma
3 weeks ago
Thank you so much
Sophie Atkins
3 weeks ago
Amazing experience at numi scan for our gender reveal!! The staff are very friendly and informative the whole experience was perfect
Francesca Atkinson
4 weeks ago
I would like to thank all the staff at numi scan, we have attended 3 scans all together then also got a free wellbeing scan for our loyalty. Always amazing, always gives us reassurance, we get the same sonographer every time and she really is a delight. Couldn’t thankyou all enough for making this journey extra special 🥰
Chloe Leigh
a month ago
Always makes me feel welcomed!
Hero H.Mahmud
4 days ago
Amazing service all round, fantastic staff and a great all round experience."
Andrew Liddle
a week ago
Brilliant service. Couldn't be happier with the whole process. The woman doing the scan was great very reassuring, receptionist was great too. We'll definitely be coming back.
Iuliana Toma
3 weeks ago
Thank you so much
Sophie Atkins
3 weeks ago
Amazing experience at numi scan for our gender reveal!! The staff are very friendly and informative the whole experience was perfect
Francesca Atkinson
4 weeks ago
I would like to thank all the staff at numi scan, we have attended 3 scans all together then also got a free wellbeing scan for our loyalty. Always amazing, always gives us reassurance, we get the same sonographer every time and she really is a delight. Couldn’t thankyou all enough for making this journey extra special 🥰
Chloe Leigh
a month ago
Always makes me feel welcomed!
Hero H.Mahmud
4 days ago
Amazing service all round, fantastic staff and a great all round experience."
Andrew Liddle
a week ago
Brilliant service. Couldn't be happier with the whole process. The woman doing the scan was great very reassuring, receptionist was great too. We'll definitely be coming back.
Iuliana Toma
3 weeks ago
Thank you so much
Sophie Atkins
3 weeks ago
Amazing experience at numi scan for our gender reveal!! The staff are very friendly and informative the whole experience was perfect
Francesca Atkinson
4 weeks ago
I would like to thank all the staff at numi scan, we have attended 3 scans all together then also got a free wellbeing scan for our loyalty. Always amazing, always gives us reassurance, we get the same sonographer every time and she really is a delight. Couldn’t thankyou all enough for making this journey extra special 🥰
Chloe Leigh
a month ago
Always makes me feel welcomed!
Richard Hay
a month ago
Fabulous experience with Gina for our 4D baby scan. Incredibly friendly and professional service - the images are amazing. I'd 100% recommend this experience.
linzi dodd
a month ago
I had a really positive experience with Numi Scan. The whole process was professional, friendly, and reassuring from start to finish. The staff were welcoming and took the time to explain everything clearly, which made the experience feel relaxed and comfortable. I was really impressed with the service and would definitely recommend Numi Scan to anyone looking for a professional and caring experience Thank yous again 4d scan photos are amazing 😁
Claire Wilson
a month ago
Very pleased we booked with NumiScan, customer service was great and the quality of the scan you get is even better. Would definitely come back in the future
William Davis
a month ago
Brilliant place to have a scan so friendly
Chloe gray
2 months ago
Absolutely brilliant😊staff are really friendly would highly recommend and will be back☺️thank you.
Ji ching Lee
2 months ago
Lovely experience. Staffs who love their job and are really good at it. We had Paula as our sonographer today and she made us feel so comfortable and reassuring. Thank you for this wonderful experience.
Richard Hay
a month ago
Fabulous experience with Gina for our 4D baby scan. Incredibly friendly and professional service - the images are amazing. I'd 100% recommend this experience.
linzi dodd
a month ago
I had a really positive experience with Numi Scan. The whole process was professional, friendly, and reassuring from start to finish. The staff were welcoming and took the time to explain everything clearly, which made the experience feel relaxed and comfortable. I was really impressed with the service and would definitely recommend Numi Scan to anyone looking for a professional and caring experience Thank yous again 4d scan photos are amazing 😁
Claire Wilson
a month ago
Very pleased we booked with NumiScan, customer service was great and the quality of the scan you get is even better. Would definitely come back in the future
William Davis
a month ago
Brilliant place to have a scan so friendly
Chloe gray
2 months ago
Absolutely brilliant😊staff are really friendly would highly recommend and will be back☺️thank you.
Ji ching Lee
2 months ago
Lovely experience. Staffs who love their job and are really good at it. We had Paula as our sonographer today and she made us feel so comfortable and reassuring. Thank you for this wonderful experience.
Richard Hay
a month ago
Fabulous experience with Gina for our 4D baby scan. Incredibly friendly and professional service - the images are amazing. I'd 100% recommend this experience.
linzi dodd
a month ago
I had a really positive experience with Numi Scan. The whole process was professional, friendly, and reassuring from start to finish. The staff were welcoming and took the time to explain everything clearly, which made the experience feel relaxed and comfortable. I was really impressed with the service and would definitely recommend Numi Scan to anyone looking for a professional and caring experience Thank yous again 4d scan photos are amazing 😁
Claire Wilson
a month ago
Very pleased we booked with NumiScan, customer service was great and the quality of the scan you get is even better. Would definitely come back in the future
William Davis
a month ago
Brilliant place to have a scan so friendly
Chloe gray
2 months ago
Absolutely brilliant😊staff are really friendly would highly recommend and will be back☺️thank you.
Ji ching Lee
2 months ago
Lovely experience. Staffs who love their job and are really good at it. We had Paula as our sonographer today and she made us feel so comfortable and reassuring. Thank you for this wonderful experience.
Richard Hay
a month ago
Fabulous experience with Gina for our 4D baby scan. Incredibly friendly and professional service - the images are amazing. I'd 100% recommend this experience.
linzi dodd
a month ago
I had a really positive experience with Numi Scan. The whole process was professional, friendly, and reassuring from start to finish. The staff were welcoming and took the time to explain everything clearly, which made the experience feel relaxed and comfortable. I was really impressed with the service and would definitely recommend Numi Scan to anyone looking for a professional and caring experience Thank yous again 4d scan photos are amazing 😁
Claire Wilson
a month ago
Very pleased we booked with NumiScan, customer service was great and the quality of the scan you get is even better. Would definitely come back in the future
William Davis
a month ago
Brilliant place to have a scan so friendly
Chloe gray
2 months ago
Absolutely brilliant😊staff are really friendly would highly recommend and will be back☺️thank you.
Ji ching Lee
2 months ago
Lovely experience. Staffs who love their job and are really good at it. We had Paula as our sonographer today and she made us feel so comfortable and reassuring. Thank you for this wonderful experience.
Future scans we recommend for you
Most parents who book an early pregnancy scan come back as their pregnancy progresses. Here's what we'd recommend next based on where you are in your journey.
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Best for bonding4D Baby Scan
See your baby move, stretch and smile in stunning HD Live 4D, a once-in-a-lifetime bonding experience you can share with up to 7 guests.
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
We can perform early pregnancy scans from 6 weeks gestation. However, we suggest scanning from 7 weeks onwards to ensure we can detect a heartbeat. Scans before 7 weeks may not always show a heartbeat, which can lead to uncertain results. See our 6-week scan milestone guide for full detail on the earliest reliable window.
At Numi Scan Gateshead our Early Pregnancy Viability Scan is £89 and includes a diagnostic ultrasound scan, a sonographer report, printed and/or digital images, and the opportunity to discuss your findings with the sonographer. Across the UK, private early pregnancy scans typically cost £75–£150 depending on the clinic and what's included. See our UK private ultrasound cost guide for a full breakdown of national averages and what to watch out for. A 25% surcharge applies once a multiple pregnancy has been confirmed (typically at or after the NHS 12-week dating scan, or once identified on one of our private scans), to cover the additional scan time and dual reporting required.
If you are less than 10 weeks pregnant, we recommend the Early Pregnancy Viability Scan (£89, 6 to 9 weeks 6 days), which focuses on confirming an intrauterine pregnancy, the fetal heartbeat, dating and viability. If you are 10 weeks or beyond, our Early Pregnancy Reassurance Scan (£75, 10 to 14 weeks) may be more suitable, as your baby is more developed and we can assess growth, movement and ongoing wellbeing. If you're unsure, our team will be happy to advise on 0191 422 9570.
Your appointment will last around 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the experience in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Our Gateshead clinic is conveniently located on the High Street, opposite Trinity Square and the VUE Cinema, with space for up to 7 guests to join you during your scan. Your scan will be carried out by an experienced and registered sonographer using warm ultrasound gel for your comfort. In early pregnancy, an internal scan may sometimes be recommended to obtain clearer images and provide the most accurate assessment. During the scan, you'll watch your baby live on our 90-inch projector screen, supported by two 46-inch side TVs to create a stunning 180-degree viewing experience. Where possible, you'll also have the opportunity to hear your baby's heartbeat. After your appointment, you'll receive 4 printed A6 photos, all digital scan images, and a written obstetric report to take home with you. Depending on your baby's position and stage of pregnancy, some families may also enjoy a complimentary 4D preview.
For the clearest images, drink 500–750ml of water around 30–45 minutes before your appointment, and try not to empty your bladder before the scan. Your bladder should feel comfortably full but not painful. Wear loose-fitting clothes that allow easy access to your tummy. You don't need a GP referral. See our guide on booking without a referral for how it works. If you're under 8 weeks, drinking 1 litre over the hour leading up to the scan can help us get a clearer image.
At Gateshead Numi Scan, we have a team of highly skilled and certified sonographers who will perform your scan. We recognise the importance of personal comfort during this experience. If you have a preference, kindly inform us during the booking process, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
We offer a one-time complimentary re-scan if your baby's position hinders a proper scan (Monday to Friday, subject to availability). Your comfort and getting clear images is our priority.
Our private scans complement NHS scans, providing additional reassurance and bonding opportunities but do not replace your NHS appointments which you should still attend. For a full side-by-side breakdown, see our private vs NHS ultrasound guide.
Yes, you're welcome to bring up to 7 guests into our spacious scan room. From the comfort of the sofa, they can share the experience of seeing your baby on our 90-inch projector screen and two 46-inch side TVs. If you'd like to bring more than 7, please contact the clinic in advance and we'll do our best to accommodate.
No. At Numi Scan Gateshead a GP referral is not necessary to book a scan with us. You can book directly online or by phone on 0191 422 9570. Read our full guide on booking without a GP referral if you'd like to know more about how this works.
Book Your Early Pregnancy Viability Scan
Get the reassurance you deserve. Our friendly team is ready to welcome you to our Gateshead clinic.
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