If you choose to have a dating scan, it will most probably be your first scan. You will need to get a referral from your doctor or midwife for a dating scan. Most women can instead have their first scan at 11 to 13 weeks — this is usually called the 12-week scan.

When do you normally get your first scan?

The first routine scan is offered at around weeks 11 to 14 of your pregnancy. The timing of scans can be a bit different depending on where you live and when you first see your doctor or midwife. Seeing your baby for the first time can feel like an exciting event. You may feel anxious too.