A possible pregnancy scan concern is not always a diagnosis. I would expect the clinician to explain what was seen, what remains uncertain, whether another assessment is needed and which maternity team will coordinate the next step. If you have acute symptoms, use maternity or emergency services rather than waiting for a routine scan discussion.
An unexpected scan finding can feel overwhelming. A clear conversation should separate the image finding from its possible meaning, explain the level of certainty and give you a named point of contact for follow-up. Research on antenatal ultrasound experiences shows that clear communication and time for questions matter when a result is uncertain.[1]
This guide cannot interpret an individual scan. Bleeding, severe or one-sided pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, fluid loss, reduced movements later in pregnancy or feeling acutely unwell need prompt maternity or emergency assessment.
Written & reviewed by
Dr George XynopoulosConsultant Physician & Cardiologist · GMC 3502763 · Reviewed by Dr George Xynopoulos, GMC 3502763
Clinical review date: 21 August 2026
View full profileThe first conversation
A clinician should explain the finding in plain language and distinguish what is known from what needs further assessment. Depending on the situation, the next step may include a repeat scan, referral to a maternity or fetal-medicine team, discussion with your usual maternity provider or a different assessment.
A private scan should support, not replace, your NHS antenatal and maternity pathway. Keep your routine maternity appointments unless your maternity team advises otherwise.
A practical follow-up plan
Before you leave, ask who will arrange follow-up, which team will receive the report, when you should expect contact and what to do if you have not heard back. Ask for a copy of the report if this will help you share the information with your midwife, GP or maternity unit.
Questions that can help
Ask what was seen, how certain the finding is, whether it could explain any symptoms, what further assessment is recommended, who will arrange it, how results will be communicated and when you should seek help sooner.
- What did the scan assess?
- What is known and what remains uncertain?
- Do I need a repeat scan, maternity review or fetal-medicine referral?
- Who will coordinate the next step?
- Which symptoms mean I should seek help sooner?
When to seek urgent help
Contact your maternity unit or use NHS 111 for urgent advice if you are worried and it is not life-threatening. Call 999 for collapse, severe breathing difficulty, severe bleeding, severe pain with faintness or another life-threatening emergency. Do not wait for a routine scan appointment when symptoms are acute.
Reporting and follow-up
The clinic explains the reporting process and the appropriate follow-up route for your examination at booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
References
- [1]Moncrieff G et al. First and second trimester ultrasound in pregnancy: a systematic review and metasynthesis of the views and experiences of pregnant women, partners, and health workers. PLOS ONE. 2021.
- [2]Khalil A et al. ISUOG Practice Guidelines (updated): role of ultrasound in twin pregnancy. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2025.
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