Pregnancy Scans at Radiant Radiology, Gold Coast & Logan
Radiant Radiology provides pregnancy ultrasound as part of our women’s imaging services, including at our Women’s Imaging Centre in Pimpama. Pregnancy scans use sound waves rather than radiation, and ultrasound is the standard imaging method used throughout pregnancy in Australia.
Our experienced sonographers perform pregnancy scans in a private, comfortable setting, supporting you and your referring doctor or midwife at each stage of your pregnancy.
Have a referral? Book your pregnancy scan at your nearest Radiant Radiology clinic.
Pregnancy Scans at Each Stage
Your doctor or midwife will advise which scans are recommended for your pregnancy. Common examinations include:
Performed in the first trimester to confirm the pregnancy, estimate your due date, check the location of the pregnancy, and confirm the number of babies. In early pregnancy, a transvaginal scan may be recommended for clearer images, and your sonographer will explain this and seek your consent beforehand.
Performed between 11 and 14 weeks. This screening scan measures the fluid at the back of the baby's neck and is usually combined with blood test results to estimate the chance of certain chromosomal conditions. It is a screening test, not a diagnostic one, and your referring doctor will explain your results and any recommended next steps.
Performed between 18 and 22 weeks, this detailed anatomy scan is a routine part of pregnancy care in Australia. It assesses your baby's development, the position of the placenta, and the amniotic fluid. If you would prefer not to know your baby's sex, tell your sonographer at the start of the examination.
Performed later in pregnancy where requested by your doctor or midwife, these scans assess your baby's growth, position, and wellbeing, along with the placenta and fluid levels.
How We Perform Your Pregnancy Scan
Your scan is performed by our experienced sonographers. Warm gel is applied to your abdomen and a handheld transducer is gently moved over the skin to capture real-time images of your baby. In early pregnancy, a transvaginal scan may provide clearer images, and this will always be explained and performed only with your consent.
Scan time varies with the stage of pregnancy and the examination requested. Our radiologists review the images and report promptly to your referring doctor or midwife.
Please note that ultrasound cannot identify all conditions, and the ability to see certain details depends on factors such as your baby’s position and stage of pregnancy.
Preparing for Your Pregnancy Scan
Our team will confirm preparation instructions when you book. As a general guide:
Some early pregnancy scans require a comfortably full bladder, as this improves image quality. Our team will confirm what applies to your scan.
Bring your referral and any previous scans from this pregnancy.
Wear comfortable, two-piece clothing so only your abdomen needs to be exposed.
A support person is welcome to accompany you. Please check with your clinic about children attending, so we can plan for a calm scanning environment.
Why Choose Radiant Radiology for Pregnancy Scans
Experienced sonographers in pregnancy imaging, supported by our radiologists
Private, comfortable scanning rooms, including our Women’s Imaging Centre in Pimpama
Clear communication with your referring doctor or midwife at every stage
Convenient clinics across the Gold Coast and Logan
Radiant Radiology supports you through pregnancy with careful, professional imaging and respect for your preferences throughout every scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a pregnancy ultrasound safe for my baby?
Ultrasound uses sound waves rather than radiation and is the standard method for monitoring pregnancy, with decades of routine use. Scans are performed when requested by your doctor or midwife as part of your pregnancy care.
Do I need a referral for a pregnancy scan?
Yes, a referral from your GP, obstetrician, or midwife is required for a Medicare-eligible pregnancy ultrasound. Our team can confirm eligibility and any fees when you book.
When should I have each pregnancy scan?
Common timing is a dating scan in the first trimester, a nuchal translucency scan between 11 and 14 weeks, and a morphology scan between 18 and 22 weeks, with growth scans later if requested. Your doctor or midwife will advise the right schedule for your pregnancy.
Why do I need a full bladder for some scans?
In earlier pregnancy, a comfortably full bladder lifts the uterus into a better position and improves image clarity. Our team will tell you exactly how much to drink and when, so you are not uncomfortable.
Can I find out my baby's sex at my scan?
The baby's sex can often be seen at the morphology scan, although visibility depends on your baby's position on the day. Tell your sonographer at the start whether or not you would like to know.
Can my partner or a support person come with me?
Yes, a support person is welcome. Check with your clinic about bringing children, so our team can help plan a calm environment for your scan.
Pregnancy Scans Available Locations
Pregnancy scans are performed as part of our women’s imaging services. Contact your nearest clinic to confirm availability and book:
Ready to book? Appointments are available with a valid referral.