Private Women's Health Scans · Women's Health types
A private DEXA scan uses a very low dose of X-rays to measure bone density, usually at the hip and the lower spine. The result is used to diagnose osteoporosis and, together with your other risk factors, to estimate your risk of fractures. It is quick and painless. You do not need a referral from your own GP, but this scan uses X-rays, so UK regulations require a referral from a registered clinician and the centre must confirm the scan is justified.
Indications
Book online
Appointments at independent centres
You do not need a referral from your own GP, but this scan uses X-rays, so UK regulations require a referral from a registered clinician and the centre must confirm the scan is justified. Written report from a consultant radiologist.
About this scan
Women's health imaging covers a broad range of scans tailored to female anatomy across all life stages, from reproductive years through perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Private access can mean a shorter wait than NHS routes; availability depends on the centre.
Depending on the centre, options include pelvic ultrasound (transvaginal and transabdominal), breast ultrasound, mammography, hysteroscopy imaging support, DEXA bone density scanning, and specialist MRI of the pelvis and breast. All scans are interpreted by consultant radiologists and reported within 24–48 hours.
Key facts
The process
Select the specific scan from the list below or call us if you're unsure which investigation is right for your symptoms.
Arrive at the imaging centre. Scans are performed by specialist radiographers or sonographers; a female clinician can be arranged.
The sonographer or radiographer shares initial observations during your appointment.
A consultant radiologist reviews all images and issues a full written report within 24–48 hours. Copies can be sent to your GP.
Before your scan
For pelvic ultrasound (transabdominal): arrive with a comfortably full bladder.
For transvaginal ultrasound: an empty bladder is preferred. A female sonographer can be requested.
For mammogram: avoid deodorant, talc, or body lotion on the day; particles can appear on images.
For DEXA scan: no special preparation. Avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours beforehand.
For breast MRI: wear comfortable clothing with no underwired bras or metal fasteners.
Inform the team of any current pregnancy or possibility of pregnancy before booking.
FAQs
What do the results mean?
The report gives a T-score, which compares your bone density with a healthy young adult. A score of -2.5 or lower means osteoporosis, and a score between -1 and -2.5 means lower than average bone density (osteopenia). A clinician uses the result together with your other risk factors to decide whether treatment is needed.
How do I prepare for a DEXA scan?
Avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before the scan, and wear clothes without metal zips or buttons if you can. Tell the centre if you have had a barium test or a contrast scan in the past week, or if you could be pregnant.
How much radiation does a DEXA scan use?
Very little: a DEXA scan uses a much lower dose than a standard X-ray, less than a day of natural background radiation.
Do I need a GP referral for a DEXA scan?
Not from your own GP. This scan uses X-rays, so under UK radiation regulations a registered clinician has to refer you and the centre has to confirm the scan is justified before it goes ahead. Check with the centre how it arranges this — some have a clinician who can refer on site, others will ask for a letter from your GP, dentist or consultant.
Will a DEXA scan explain my joint or back pain?
No. A DEXA scan measures bone density only. It does not show arthritis, discs or the cause of pain, which need an X-ray, ultrasound or MRI.
independent imaging centres. Radiologist report delivered to your secure portal.
