The dating ultrasound, sometimes called a viability scan, is a significant early step in your pregnancy journey, offering a first clear look at your developing baby and providing essential information. This ultrasound is the most accurate way to establish your gestational age, helping to set a confident expected due date.
What it is
This ultrasound is a routine monitoring tool that confirms your pregnancy is located within the uterus (intrauterine pregnancy) and checks for fetal cardiac activity. It's also used to determine the gestational age of your baby with remarkable precision, especially when performed in the first trimester. During this scan, the crown-rump length (CRL) measurement is taken, which is a key indicator for dating. It also identifies how many fetuses are present, which can be a wonderful surprise for some parents. This scan is considered a recommended part of early prenatal care, providing foundational information for the rest of your pregnancy.
