Early twin scan
Expecting two? We count the embryos from week 5+0 – the heartbeats are usually visible from week 6.
Twins can be seen as early as week 5+0. At an early twin scan we confirm the pregnancy, look at the position in the womb, count the embryos and look for heart activity in both babies. We set aside extra time, so you have the calm to take in what you are seeing.
No referral needed Pay at the clinic
What you get
- Number of embryos and their position in the womb
- Heart activity in both babies
- Measurements and a provisional due date
- An assessment of whether the babies share a placenta
- Printed black and white images
- Extra time set aside for twins
- Images and video sent digitally to your phone by QR code
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time?
Twins can be seen from week 5+0, but weeks 7–8 give a far more reliable picture: both hearts are beating, and the arrangement of placentas and membranes is easier to determine. If you are unsure how far along you are, pick a week later. With twins in particular it is good to establish early whether they share a placenta – then your midwife and hospital know from the start, and you can relax with that settled.
From when can you see whether it is twins?
From week 5 we can often see two gestational sacs. From weeks 6–7 we can usually see two hearts beating, and that is when the answer becomes certain.
What do identical and fraternal mean?
Fraternal twins come from two eggs and each has their own placenta. Identical twins come from one egg that has divided, and they may share a placenta. It is good to know from the start, and we can usually see it as early as the first scan.
Can I be scanned even though I already know it is twins?
Yes. Many come precisely to have the placentas and membranes assessed, or to follow both babies' growth between the public check-ups.