Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of the potential mental impact of delays to getting an ultrasound scan on pregnant women.

Women are usually offered two ultrasound scans during their pregnancy, around weeks 12 and 20, although more may be recommended based on their health and the pregnancy. No assessment has been made of the potential mental impact of delays to getting an ultrasound scan on pregnant women.

Midwives and general practitioners are available discuss any concerns during pregnancy in the first instance. They can also refer women to specialist mental health services, which are available in England for those women who experience mental health difficulties as a result of their pregnancy.