What is a “dating” ultrasound? A dating ultrasound gives an accurate estimate of how far along you are in your pregnancy. Many women are uncertain of exactly when conception happened. Ultrasound can tell you how many weeks pregnant you are, based on the size of your fetus.

What will first ultrasound tell you?

Your first ultrasound is called the “dating” or “viability” ultrasound. Its typically done between 7 and 8 weeks to verify your due date, to look for a fetal heartbeat, and to measure the length of the baby from “crown to rump.” At this ultrasound, youll also learn whether youre having one baby, twins, or more!

What happens at the dating ultrasound?

The ultrasound technician will put some warm gel on your tummy and move a small hand-held device (transducer) over your skin to get views of your baby (NHS 2015b, SOGC 21019). It wont hurt, although you may feel a little pressure on your tummy and from your full bladder.