As your pregnancy reaches the later stages, your baby is getting ready for birth. One of the most important things to know at this point is your baby’s position in the womb. This is where a presentation scan comes in.
A presentation scan is a type of ultrasound done in the third trimester to check your baby’s position before delivery. It helps you and your doctor understand if your baby is in the right place for a smooth and safe birth.
Whether this is your first baby or not, knowing how your baby is lying in the womb gives you confidence and helps you prepare for labour.
What Is a Presentation Scan?
A presentation scan is a simple ultrasound that checks which way your baby is facing inside the womb. It is usually done after 36 weeks of pregnancy, close to your due date.
The main purpose of this scan is to confirm:
- Is your baby head down (cephalic position)?
- Is your baby feet or bottom down (breech position)?
- Is your baby lying sideways (transverse position)?
The scan also checks other important things, like the location of the placenta and the amount of fluid around your baby.
Why Is Baby’s Position Important?
Knowing your baby’s position matters because it can affect how you give birth.
- Head-down position (cephalic) – This is the ideal position for birth. Most babies settle into this position by 36 to 37 weeks.
- Breech position – This means your baby’s bottom or feet are down instead of the head. Some breech babies can still be born naturally, but others may need a C-section.
- Transverse position – The baby is lying sideways. This position is not safe for delivery and may require a planned C-section.
If your baby is not in the head-down position, your midwife or doctor may discuss ways to turn the baby or plan for a safer delivery method.
When Should You Have a Presentation Scan?
A presentation scan is usually offered or recommended around 36 to 40 weeks, depending on your situation.
You may be advised to have this scan if:
- Your midwife cannot tell your baby’s position by touch
- You’re carrying twins or multiples
- You had a breech baby in a past pregnancy
- You’ve had a previous C-section
- You feel changes in your baby’s movement or shape of your bump
- Your baby was breech earlier, and they want to check if baby has turned
Sometimes this scan is offered during a routine appointment, but many parents choose to have it privately for reassurance.
What Happens During a Presentation Scan?
The presentation scan is quick, painless, and safe. Here's what you can expect:
- Arrival at the clinic – You’ll be welcomed into a quiet scan room. A full bladder is usually not necessary at this stage.
- Ultrasound scan – The sonographer applies a small amount of gel to your belly and moves a handheld device (called a probe) across your skin.
- Viewing the baby – On the screen, they’ll check where your baby’s head, body, and limbs are located.
- Measurements and report – They may also check growth, fluid levels, and placenta position. You’ll get a report at the end.
The whole appointment usually takes around 10–20 minutes.
What If My Baby Is Breech?
If your baby is in a breech position during the scan, don’t panic. Many babies turn naturally before birth. However, if your baby stays breech after 36 weeks, your doctor or midwife may talk to you about options like:
- ECV (External Cephalic Version) – A safe procedure where a doctor gently tries to turn the baby to a head-down position by pressing on your tummy.
- Planned C-section – If the baby doesn’t turn, a C-section might be the safest option.
The presentation scan gives you the chance to make informed decisions and prepare for birth calmly and safely.
Can the Presentation Scan Show Anything Else?
Yes, this scan can also give you some extra information, including:
- Placenta location – Ensures the placenta is not blocking the cervix (placenta previa).
- Amniotic fluid levels – Too much or too little fluid can be a sign of certain conditions.
- Growth check – Some clinics will measure your baby’s size to make sure growth is on track.
Depending on where you have the scan, you might also be able to see your baby’s face again or get a photo to take home.
Is a Presentation Scan Safe?
Yes, a presentation scan is completely safe for both you and your baby. It uses ultrasound waves, not radiation. You can have multiple scans during pregnancy without any harm.
The scan is non-invasive and does not require any needles or medical procedures. It’s just a gentle scan on your belly with a warm gel and a handheld probe.
Why Do Parents Choose a Presentation Scan?
Here are some of the common reasons expectant parents choose a presentation scan:
- Peace of mind before birth
- Help with birth planning
- To confirm baby has turned into the right position
- Because they are booked for a vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC)
- For a private check-up if they haven’t had a recent NHS scan
It’s also a lovely chance to see your baby again before birth and connect more deeply as the due date approaches.
What Will I Receive After the Scan?
At most clinics, you’ll receive:
- A report of the baby’s position and measurements
- Printed images of your baby (if desired)
- Advice on next steps if baby is breech or lying sideways
- A calm and supportive explanation from a trained sonographer
Some private clinics may also offer 4D viewing or short video clips depending on their packages.
Final Thoughts
A presentation scan is a simple and helpful way to make sure your baby is in the right position for birth. It gives you clear answers, supports your birth choices, and helps you feel more prepared for labour and delivery.
If you’re close to your due date and want to know how your baby is lying, or if your midwife isn’t sure about the position, a presentation scan is a wise and reassuring step.
With the help of a friendly and experienced sonographer, you’ll leave your appointment with a better understanding of what to expect in the final weeks of pregnancy — and maybe even one more look at your baby before you meet them.
Georgina Nicholson 
