Pregnancy location
Looks for an intrauterine gestational sac and early pregnancy structures appropriate to gestational age.
Early pregnancy · Pregnancy location assessment
Ectopic Pregnancy Scan
An early-pregnancy ultrasound from 6–12 weeks to confirm where the pregnancy is located and assess the uterus, ovaries, adnexa and pelvis for findings that may suggest ectopic pregnancy or require urgent follow-up.
- 6–12 weeks
- £219 per scan
- No GP referral
- Internal scan only with consent
Ectopic pregnancy scan£2196–12 weeksWritten report included
Severe symptoms should not wait for a private scan
Severe or worsening one-sided pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness, fainting, collapse or feeling very unwell can be signs of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy and need emergency assessment.
Pregnancy locationIntrauterine location assessed
Uterus + adnexaOvaries and surrounding pelvis reviewed
Transvaginal optionOnly with explicit consent
Clear next stepsRepeat scan / bloods / EPU if needed
About the scan
What is an ectopic pregnancy scan?
An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that implants outside the main cavity of the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. The purpose of this scan is to establish whether an early pregnancy is seen in the uterus and to assess the pelvis for features that may indicate an ectopic pregnancy.
A positive pregnancy test or β-hCG blood test confirms pregnancy hormone is present, but it cannot show where the pregnancy is located. Ultrasound and, where necessary, serial β-hCG measurements are used together when the location is uncertain.
Very early pregnancy: if the pregnancy is too early to see confidently, the result may be described as a pregnancy of unknown location. Repeat ultrasound and serial β-hCG testing may be needed rather than making an immediate diagnosis.
What we assess
What can the scan evaluate?
The examination is focused on pregnancy location and early-pregnancy complications.
Uterus and endometrium
Assesses the uterine cavity and surrounding myometrium for visible abnormalities relevant to early pregnancy.
Adnexa and tubes
The adnexal regions are examined for a mass or other findings that may raise suspicion of ectopic pregnancy.
Ovaries
Both ovaries are reviewed, including the expected corpus luteum and any cystic or other visible findings.
Free pelvic fluid
The pelvis is assessed for free fluid, particularly where pain or bleeding is present.
Early viability markers
When developmentally appropriate, early pregnancy structures and cardiac activity may be assessed, but the primary purpose is pregnancy location.
When to book
Who may need an early pregnancy location scan?
A private scan can provide rapid assessment when symptoms are mild or when early location confirmation is clinically useful.
Previous ectopic pregnancy
Early location confirmation may be recommended because recurrence risk is higher after a previous ectopic pregnancy.
One-sided pelvic discomfort
Mild unilateral pelvic pain or discomfort in a stable patient may warrant early pregnancy assessment.
Light bleeding or spotting
Bleeding in early pregnancy can have many causes; ultrasound can help assess location and visible pregnancy development.
IVF or fertility treatment
Early ultrasound may be used to confirm pregnancy location after assisted conception, including awareness of rare heterotopic pregnancy.
Scan method
Transabdominal and, when needed, transvaginal ultrasound
In very early pregnancy, transvaginal ultrasound often provides the clearest view of the uterus and adnexa, but it is performed only with your consent.
- Your gestational dates, pregnancy test, symptoms and relevant history are reviewed.
- A transabdominal scan may be performed first.
- Transvaginal ultrasound may be recommended for greater detail in early gestation.
- You may decline or stop an internal scan at any time.
- Findings are explained within the limits of early-pregnancy ultrasound.
Consent: transvaginal ultrasound is an internal examination and is performed only after explanation and explicit consent. A chaperone can be provided in accordance with clinic policy.
If the result is uncertain
What happens if the pregnancy cannot yet be located?
An inconclusive early scan does not automatically mean ectopic pregnancy.
Ultrasound findings
The report documents whether an intrauterine pregnancy is seen and whether there are adnexal findings or free fluid.
Pregnancy of unknown location
If no pregnancy is visible and there is no definite ectopic finding, the pregnancy may be classified as being of unknown location.
Serial β-hCG
Blood tests taken over time may be recommended as part of the clinical assessment. A single hCG value cannot establish pregnancy location.
Repeat scan / EPU
Repeat ultrasound, GP or Early Pregnancy Unit review, or emergency referral is advised according to symptoms, hCG trend and scan findings.
Book online
Book your Ectopic Pregnancy Scan
Use the dedicated PrivateSono booking page for the 6–12 week ectopic-pregnancy location scan.
If symptoms are severe or worsening, do not wait for this appointment—seek emergency care.
Clinic locations
Central London and St Albans
Select the available clinic through the PrivateSono booking page.
Central London
27 Welbeck Street
London W1G 8EN.
Book Central London →St Albans
54–56 Victoria Street
St Albans AL1 3HZ.
Book St Albans →How much is the Ectopic Pregnancy Scan?+
The current PrivateSono price is £219 per scan.
When can I have the scan?+
PrivateSono lists the scan for 6–12 weeks. Pregnancy location can sometimes be assessed from around 5–6 weeks, depending on dates, symptoms and what is visible on ultrasound.
What is the main purpose of the scan?+
The main purpose is to establish whether the pregnancy is seen inside the uterus and to assess the adnexa and pelvis for findings that may suggest ectopic pregnancy.
Can the scan always exclude ectopic pregnancy?+
No. If the pregnancy is very early, neither an intrauterine nor ectopic pregnancy may be visible. Repeat ultrasound and serial β-hCG measurements may be needed.
What is a pregnancy of unknown location?+
This term is used when a pregnancy test is positive but ultrasound does not yet show a definite pregnancy inside or outside the uterus. It requires follow-up until the location and outcome become clear.
Is the scan transvaginal?+
Transvaginal ultrasound is often the most informative method in early pregnancy. It is performed only with explicit consent and may be declined or stopped.
Do I need a full bladder?+
A comfortably full bladder can help transabdominal imaging. The bladder is usually emptied for a transvaginal scan. Follow the preparation instructions in your booking confirmation.
Can a blood hCG test diagnose ectopic pregnancy?+
No. β-hCG confirms pregnancy hormone is present but does not identify where the pregnancy is located. Serial values may assist interpretation alongside ultrasound.
Can I have an ectopic pregnancy even if I have no pain?+
Yes. Some ectopic pregnancies have few or no symptoms initially, which is why location assessment may be recommended in higher-risk situations.
What symptoms need emergency care?+
Severe or worsening one-sided pain, heavy bleeding, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness, fainting, collapse or feeling very unwell require urgent emergency assessment.
What if I have had a previous ectopic pregnancy?+
A previous ectopic pregnancy increases the risk in a future pregnancy. Early pregnancy-location ultrasound is commonly used for reassurance and appropriate follow-up.
Can ectopic pregnancy occur after IVF?+
Yes. Ectopic pregnancy can occur after assisted conception. Rarely, a heterotopic pregnancy can occur, with one pregnancy inside the uterus and another outside it.
Will the scan check the heartbeat?+
When developmentally appropriate, early cardiac activity may be assessed, but the main purpose of this service is pregnancy location and early complication assessment.
Do I need a GP referral?+
No. PrivateSono accepts direct self-referral for this scan.
What happens if something concerning is found?+
The report will advise the appropriate next step, which may include Early Pregnancy Unit assessment, repeat ultrasound, serial blood tests, GP review or immediate emergency referral depending on the findings and symptoms.
Private early-pregnancy assessment
Book Ectopic Pregnancy Scan — £219
Pregnancy-location assessment from 6–12 weeks, with internal imaging only with consent.