Do you offer medical (diagnostic) ultrasound scans?

Yes, we do.

Beautiful Beginnings now offers a full range of diagnostic medical ultrasounds alongside our much-loved non-diagnostic 3D/4D bonding scans, all under one roof.

Our diagnostic scans are performed by qualified medical sonographers and require a referral from your GP or obstetrician.

This means you can enjoy both the medical care you need and the bonding experience you want, in one familiar, welcoming space.

Do I need a referral?
  • Medical scans: Yes, a referral from your GP or obstetrician is required
  • Non-diagnostic scans: No referral needed
What is the difference between diagnostic and non-diagnostic scans?

Diagnostic (Medical) Ultrasounds

These are medical scans used to assess your baby’s health and development.

They include:

  • Dating scans
  • Early Anatomy (12-week scan)
  • Anatomy scans (20-week scan)
  • Growth and wellbeing scans

These scans:

  • Require a referral
  • Include medical measurements and reporting
  • May be eligible for Medicare rebates
  • Are performed by qualified sonographers

Non-Diagnostic (Social) Ultrasounds

These are keepsake bonding experiences, designed for you to see and connect with your baby.

They include:

  • Early reassurance scans
  • Gender determination
  • 3D/4D/5D imaging
  • Family bonding sessions

These scans:

  • Do not require a referral
  • Do not include medical measurements or reports
  • Are not a substitute for medical care
Who performs the scan?

Your scan will be carried out by our experienced team – including qualified medical sonographers and experienced ultrasound technicians, in a calm, non-clinical environment. Medical scans are always performed by our qualified medical sonographers.

We’re mums ourselves, so we understand the excitement and emotions that come with seeing your baby on the big screen.

When is the best time to see my baby in 3D/4D/5D?

Between 26-34 weeks is usually the sweet spot. By then, baby has a little facial fat (hello cheeks!) but still has enough room to move for lovely angles. 28-30 weeks often gives the best balance. Earlier views (between 14-25 weeks) are great for cute profiles, and later views (between 35-40 weeks) can still be gorgeous, but space is tighter and baby’s position matters more.

What does “reassurance scan” mean?

At Beautiful Beginnings, a reassurance scan specifically means:

Confirmation of your baby’s heartbeat and visible physical movement at the time of your scan.

It’s important to understand that this:

  • Does not assess your baby’s anatomy
  • Does not screen for genetic conditions or abnormalities
  • Does not replace any medical ultrasound

If you have any medical concerns, we always recommend seeing your GP or healthcare provider.

What should I do to prepare for my scan?

Hydrate well in the days leading up to your appointment. While we don’t need you to hold your bladder during your session, being well hydrated does improve image quality. Having a light snack 20-30 minutes can encourage baby’s movement and activity. Wearing something comfortable and loose can also help your ultrasound tech so we’re not fighting with tight clothing. Please have your online consent form completed prior to your appointment to avoid chewing up your session time.

What will I receive from my scan?

For non-diagnostic scans, you’ll receive:

  • Printed images
  • Digital photos and videos
  • Optional add-ons such as heartbeat recordings

For diagnostic scans:

  • A medical report sent to your referring practitioner
  • Images as part of your clinical assessment
Can you tell gender, and how accurate is it?

From 14 weeks, and with baby’s position permitting, we can determine your baby’s gender. Sometimes cord, leg position or a super-snuggled in baby can make things tricky. We never guess, so if the view isn’t clear we’ll explain why and talk you through your options – we always get there in the end, either with a walk, a light snack or complimentary re-scan a few days later.

Do you scan twins?

Yes! Twin scans are at no extra charge, but please let us know in your booking notes so we are aware and can make some extra time for double the trouble! We’ll tailor positioning where possible to capture both babies. Timing can matter a little more for twins, and many parents find the 24-28 week window the best time for 3D/4D/5D clarity.

How many guests can I bring? Are kids okay?

For medical scans, we like to limit guests to two guests. Children are more than welcome to attend to watch their sibling on screen and colouring books are provided.

For social keepsake scans, you are more than welcome to bring the whole family! Up to 12 guests fit comfortably in the studio. We designed our space for family moments, so kids, grandparents and everyone in between are absolutely welcome to share in the experience. Prams, wheelchairs and trolleys are fine too.

Can I film or FaceTime during the session?

Absolutely, this is your moment and while you’re in the studio, consider it yours. We don’t gate keep anything we see on the screen. Whether you’re partner can’t be present due to FIFO schedules, or you have family overseas, we make sure to get everyone involved, so it was like they were right there with you! We’ll even dim the lights for screen clarity so your video looks great, and our gender reveal lights make for a fun, on-camera surprise!

Do you accept walk-ins?

For social scans, and when our schedule allows, yes. Weekends and late afternoons fill quickly, so booking ahead guarantees your preferred time, especially if you’re coordinating guests.

Medical scans need to be booked either over the phone or via email.

What if baby is camera-shy on the day?

It happens! We’ll try position changes, a short walk around, or a drink to encourage movement and make the most of your session. If visibility stays limited, we’ll be up front about what we can capture and discuss next steps with you on the day.

What if you don’t see a heartbeat?

If your baby has no heartbeat, we’ll gently pause and have a quiet chat with you. For our non-diagnostic scans, we’re only able to check for heartbeat and movement in that moment, so if there is no heartbeat, we’ll always guide you to your GP or healthcare provider for further assessment. If you’re booked in for a diagnostic scan, this will be assessed by one of our qualified sonographers, who will guide you through the next steps. Above all, you’ll be supported with care, privacy, and compassion every step of the way.

Are ultrasounds safe?

Ultrasound uses sound waves (not radiation) and has been widely used in pregnancy for decades. We keep sessions short and gentle, and scans are performed by trained staff following best-practice settings. If you have any specific medical questions, your doctor or midwife is the right person to ask.

Do you do memorial or special circumstances scans?

Yes, for families facing a life-limiting diagnosis, we are honoured to offer complimentary memorial scans handled with the utmost compassion and care. This is a gentle, non-diagnostic session that gives you the chance to see baby, watch their movements, recording their heartbeat, and capture keepsake images and videos in a private, supportive space. We believe in the value of this service for our community and are proud to be one of the few studios in Perth to offer it. Every family’s journey is unique, and we honour that by providing as much time as you need, without any pressure, medical speak, or rush.

Accessibility & parking

We’re inside Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre, on the ground floor next door to HBF Dental and opposite Best & Less. The multi-storey car park (Collier Pass) is located right outside our store with free parking and wheelchair access, so you don’t need to dive deep into the shopping centre to find us!