Ultrasound Presentation Scan (35 Weeks to Full Term)
A presentation scan is performed from 35 weeks onward to confirm your baby’s position, assess readiness for birth, and check final-stage well-being. This scan evaluates whether the baby is head-down, breech or transverse, as well as measuring growth, amniotic fluid, placenta location and umbilical cord blood flow. It provides reassurance in the final weeks of pregnancy and helps guide birth planning if positioning concerns are present.
What is a presentation scan?
A growth scan uses ultrasound imaging to examine:
- Baby’s position – head-down (cephalic), breech or transverse
- Fetal movements and heartbeat – confirming ongoing well-being
- Growth measurements – head, abdomen and femur
- Amniotic fluid levels – ensuring safe fluid range
- Placenta location – ruling out placenta previa in late pregnancy
- Umbilical cord blood flow – reviewing Doppler where needed
- Baby’s estimated weight – guidance for birth planning
This scan provides essential final-stage information to support safe delivery decisions.
Why consider a private presentation scan?
You may benefit from this scan if you have:
- Confirm baby’s position for labour planning
- Check for breech or transverse position
- Reassurance close to your due date
- Monitoring late pregnancy growth
- Checking placenta and amniotic fluid levels
- Assessing well-being in reduced movement cases
- Supporting decisions regarding induction or delivery options
Advantages of private ultrasound:
- Safe and radiation-free
- Allows more time for personalised reassurance
- No referral required
- Consultant sonographer report provided
- Comfortable and family-friendly environment
Symptoms or concerns that may require this scan
Consider this scan if you are experiencing:
- Uncertainty about baby’s position
- Reduced or altered fetal movements
- Concerns raised during antenatal checks
- History of breech or unstable lie in previous pregnancies
- Anxiety approaching your due date
- Pelvic discomfort or irregular bump shape
- Need for reassurance before labour
What can this ultrasound detect?
- Baby’s final position (cephalic, breech, transverse, oblique)
- Estimated fetal weight and growth
- Amniotic fluid abnormalities
- Placenta location and maturity
- Umbilical cord blood flow concerns
- Fetal position for birth preparation
- Late-pregnancy anomalies requiring monitoring
Preparing for your presentation scan
Preparation instructions:
- A comfortably partially full bladder may help earlier in the 35-week window
- Wear comfortable clothing for easy access to the abdomen
- No fasting required
- Partners or family members may attend if permitted
- Scan time: ~ 30 minutes
Inform the team if:
- You have experienced reduced movements (urgent assessment may be needed)
- You have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes or hypertension
- You have placenta previa or other pregnancy complications
- You are expecting twins or multiples (longer scan time may be needed)
How it works
Smarter Scanning. Proactive Health. Peace of Mind.
Choose
Pick a scan or a program. No referral required.
Book
Select a time online - same‑day availability.
Scan
Be seen by specialists in our Bluewater clinic.
Results
Consultant‑led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Get clarity. Get control.
Cut out long NHS queues, avoid opaque private quotes, and step into a single-visit, consultant-led experience.
