5 Signs You Should Get a Private Scan or Second Opinion

If you're wondering if and when to get a private ultrasound, you're not alone. Maybe something in your NHS scan felt rushed or unclear. Maybe your report included a term you didn’t understand. Or maybe you just have that gut feeling: “I need a little more reassurance.”

It’s completely normal to feel uncertain at times during pregnancy—especially when it comes to ultrasounds. These scans are meant to bring peace of mind, but they don’t always answer every question. Sometimes, they even raise more.

If you’ve left a scan feeling confused, anxious, or just not quite settled, it’s okay to pause and ask: Would a second opinion help me feel more confident?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through five clear signs that a private scan—or even just a second opinion—might be the right next step. I’ve supported thousands of women through this decision, and I want to help you feel informed, calm, and empowered too.

Let’s start with the short answer.

When should I get a private ultrasound?

A private scan can be helpful any time you feel unsure, anxious, or like something doesn’t quite add up. It’s especially worth considering if:

• You didn’t understand your scan results
• You felt rushed or unheard during your NHS appointment
• You’ve noticed unusual symptoms but haven’t been offered another scan
• Your scan picked up a soft marker and you're left with questions
• You simply want more reassurance between routine NHS scans

Private scans don’t replace your NHS care, but they can fill in the emotional and clinical gaps that sometimes appear in a busy system.

Let’s take a closer look at the signs it might be time to book one.

1. You left your NHS scan feeling confused or dismissed

One of the most common reasons women seek a private scan is because they didn’t feel listened to during their NHS appointment.

Maybe your scan was over in minutes. Maybe you asked a question and got a vague answer. Or maybe your sonographer was lovely—but still didn’t explain what the measurements meant.

This isn’t your fault. NHS sonographers are under huge time pressure, and there’s often little time for detailed explanations. But that doesn’t mean your questions aren’t valid.

A private scan gives you space. You can ask what an NT measurement means, what a particular abbreviation stands for, or how your baby is growing—without feeling like you're being rushed out the door.

You deserve to understand what’s happening during your pregnancy. Full stop.

2. You’ve been told something might be “abnormal” or “unclear”

If your scan showed something unexpected—like a soft marker, unusual measurement, or unclear image—it’s understandable to feel worried.

You might have heard terms like “echogenic bowel” or “enlarged ventricles” without a clear explanation of what they mean or what comes next. Sometimes the advice is to “wait and see,” which can be incredibly hard.

This is a good time to consider a second opinion.

Another sonographer might be able to get a clearer image, explain what the finding could mean, or simply reassure you if it turns out to be nothing to worry about.

3. You’re experiencing new symptoms but haven’t been offered a scan

Sometimes your body tells you something before the scans do.

Maybe you've noticed reduced movement. Maybe there’s unexpected pain, bleeding, or fluid loss. Or maybe you're simply feeling uneasy and your midwife hasn't suggested a scan.

In these moments, a private scan can give you fast clarity.

Most clinics offer same-day or next-day appointments for reassurance. A quick look at your baby’s heartbeat, movements, and growth can help either confirm that all is well—or prompt further care if needed.

It’s not about bypassing your midwife or doctor. It’s about adding another layer of support.

4. You’re between NHS scans and just want reassurance

The wait between scans can feel long—especially if you’ve experienced loss, complications, or anxiety in previous pregnancies.

Even in low-risk pregnancies, many women choose to have private scans between NHS appointments for reassurance. This might include:

• A private early scan at 7–9 weeks
• A gender scan at 16 weeks (before the routine 20-week anatomy scan)
• A growth scan in the third trimester

These aren’t medically required—but that doesn’t mean they’re not valuable. Reassurance matters.

Think of these scans as checkpoints. They can help you feel more connected to your baby, more confident in how things are progressing, and more at ease with the process.

5. You want more time, more clarity, or more emotional support

Sometimes it’s not about worry—it’s about wanting space.

You might just want a longer appointment, or the chance to see your baby in more detail. You might want your partner, kids, or parent to be there too. Or maybe you just want someone to walk you through what you're seeing on screen.

Private scans often give you 20–30 minutes with a registered sonographer in a calm setting. You can ask questions. You can pause. You can breathe. This isn’t a luxury. It’s care that meets your emotional needs too.

And if you’re still not sure whether a scan is “necessary”? That’s okay. It’s always valid to seek clarity and peace of mind. You’re not being “extra” or “demanding.” You’re being a parent.