Echo

There is usually no need for an ultrasound. This has been well researched scientifically. If you have a regular cycle between 22-35 days (3-5 weeks) and you know well when the first day of the latest menstruation was, then an ultrasound is not necessary to determine how long you are pregnant. You can count yourself or we can recalculate it for you. This is a useful tool to see how far along you are.

You also don't always need an ultrasound to rule out an ectopic pregnancy. The chance of this is very small (3 in 10,000) and by asking questions, the doctor can properly assess any increased chance and still decide to have an ultrasound. Furthermore, medically speaking, it is not necessary to know if two eggs may have been fertilised, as this makes no difference to the termination.

When is an ultrasound necessary?

An ultrasound is necessary if you:

  • have become pregnant while using a hormonal contraceptive or IUD
  • have ever had an ectopic pregnancy
  • have had gynaecological treatment for ovarian or fallopian tube disease
  • have had an infection in the lower abdomen (of the fallopian tubes and/or uterus), usually as a result of an STD
  • are familiar with endometriosis
  • currently have (severe single-sided) abdominal pain

Where can I get an ultrasound scan?

You can have an ultrasound scan performed through your GP or midwife. It's important that your GP or midwife mentions that the diagnosis is "unknown term." In that case, you won't be billed for the ultrasound and it won't be deducted from your deductible. The reason for the ultrasound scan won't be listed on your health insurance statement.
We work together with midwives who are non-judgmental about your choice; they are there for every pregnant woman, whether the pregnancy is planned or unplanned. Search for someone in your region on the map below. Click on [] in the top right corner for a better overview and information. Some midwives not only perform ultrasounds but can also provide support if requested. See the options on the map.

How does it work for her?

To assess your scan, we need a scan report. A photograph of the scan alone is not sufficient. Please specifically request this from the person performing your scan. The report must include: your name, your date of birth, the date the scan was performed, and the stage of your pregnancy. Unfortunately, we cannot help you further if we do not have this information. The midwives we work with are aware of this.
To be sure: if you longer than 9 weeks turns out to be pregnant, we cannot help you. In that case, go to your GP or abortion clinic.

You can send us the report in three ways:

  • You had your never registered with us. In that case, go to the general registration form, you can send the report as an attachment.
  • You had your already registered with us.