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An early pregnancy scan checks that a pregnancy is developing as expected, often requested when there is bleeding, pain or uncertainty in the first trimester.
Also called: Viability scan, Early pregnancy ultrasound, Bleeding in pregnancy scan, Reassurance scan, First trimester ultrasound
Find a clinic for your early pregnancy scan
102 clinics offer bulk billing for ultrasound — eligibility varies
Where to get an early pregnancy scan
104 clinics across Australia on Radly offer ultrasound.
Clinics for an early pregnancy scan on Radly
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What is an early pregnancy scan?
An early pregnancy (viability) scan focuses on how the pregnancy is progressing rather than just dating it. The sonographer looks for the pregnancy sac in the uterus, the baby and a heartbeat, and checks the ovaries and surrounding area.
Doctors often request this scan when someone has spotting, bleeding or cramping, has had a previous loss or ectopic pregnancy, or has blood test results that need clarifying. Bleeding in early pregnancy is common and often settles, but a scan helps your doctor understand what is happening.
Sometimes the first scan cannot give a clear answer because it is still very early. In that case a follow-up scan a week or two later is normal and does not mean something is wrong.
Why your doctor might request an early pregnancy scan
- Bleeding or spotting in early pregnancy
- Lower abdominal or one-sided pain
- A previous miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
- Checking a pregnancy after IVF or fertility treatment
- Follow-up after an inconclusive earlier scan
Early pregnancy scan: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your early pregnancy scan
- A comfortably full bladder is usually requested for the tummy part of the scan.
- An internal (transvaginal) scan is commonly used and needs an empty bladder.
- Bring your referral and any recent hCG blood test results.
- If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain or feel faint, go to an emergency department rather than waiting for a booked scan.
How long it takes: About 20–30 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
A referral from your GP, obstetrician or midwife is required for a Medicare rebate. Many clinics bulk bill early pregnancy scans, while some charge a gap, and urgent appointments may be handled differently. The clinic confirms billing and timing when it accepts your booking request.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your early pregnancy scan and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
Early pregnancy scan FAQs
What is the difference between a viability scan and a dating scan?
They use the same technique. A dating scan is mainly about setting your due date, while a viability scan is requested to check the pregnancy is progressing, often because of bleeding, pain or past loss.
What if the scan cannot see a heartbeat yet?
In very early pregnancy this can simply mean it is too soon to tell. Your doctor may arrange a repeat scan and blood tests, and will talk through the results with you.
Should I book a scan if I am bleeding?
Speak to your GP or midwife first. Heavy bleeding, strong pain, shoulder-tip pain or dizziness need urgent care at an emergency department.
How do I book an early pregnancy scan online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select Ultrasound as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get an early pregnancy scan?
Appointments for ultrasound are usually 1–3 days, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
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