Dr Suvarna Mahavarkar, Consultant Gynaecologist and Director

Dr. Suvarna Mahavarkar is a highly experienced Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and the Director of Somerset Early Scans. Building on the foundation of compassionate care established by her predecessor, Dr. Joanne McEwan, Suvarna brings her wealth of expertise and dedication to women’s health to guide the clinic’s services. She is committed to ensuring that Somerset Early Scans continues to provide the highest standards of personalised and reassuring care for every patient.

Suvarna works closely with a highly skilled team of sonographers to deliver exceptional, high-quality care to women. Her leadership, clinical expertise, and compassionate approach foster a collaborative environment where patient-centred care and clinical excellence are top priorities. With a special focus on early pregnancy and gynaecological scans, she is dedicated to providing accurate assessments and timely, reassuring insights. Whether addressing concerns about early pregnancy viability or investigating gynaecological symptoms such as irregular bleeding or pelvic pain, Suvarna ensures that every woman receives personalised care tailored to their unique needs. Together with her team, she strives to make every patient feel valued, informed, and supported during critical moments in their healthcare journey.

Dr. Mahavarkar earned her medical degree in 1997 and has undergone extensive specialist training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in both India and the UK. Her advanced training included rotations in the East Midlands, Peninsula, and Severn deaneries, where she gained significant experience in managing complex gynaecological and pregnancy-related conditions. She further enhanced her expertise through advanced specialist training modules in early pregnancy care, acute gynaecology, and benign gynaecology, honing her skills in diagnosing and managing a wide range of conditions with precision and care. Her training in obstetrics complements her gynaecological expertise, giving her a comprehensive understanding of women’s health across the reproductive spectrum.

Suvarna is currently a Consultant Gynaecologist at a leading tertiary teaching hospital in Bristol, where she plays a vital role in delivering advanced care for women with complex gynaecological needs. Alongside her NHS responsibilities, she also offers private consultations and treatments at Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital. In this dedicated and patient-focused setting, Suvarna provides personalised, high-quality care. Her combination of clinical, teaching, and private practice roles enables her to offer tailored care that ensures the best possible outcomes for her patients.

Dr Joanna Clark

Joanna has been a Doctor for 18 years and having 2 young children myself I have experienced at first hand the roller coaster ride of pregnancy. It is never a smooth path but a journey that throws the unexpected at you at every turn!

I really value the opportunity Somerset Early Scans gives me to provide people with reassurance or the answers that they seek and I know that the way this care is given makes all the difference. All scans are not equal and a bad experience at the hands of someone with poor communication skills can be traumatic. Equally disappointing is being treated like you are an object on a conveyor belt. Having been a very worried person on numerous occasions both before and during pregnancy I have lived this and pride myself in looking after my patients in a sensitive and individualised way.

In addition to working at Somerset Early Scans I work as a GP at Taunton Road Medical Centre in Bridgwater. Before completing my GP training, I worked in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and gained a qualification in this specialty (MRCOG). I then obtained the Certificate in Ultrasound of the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare and now perform around 200 early pregnancy and gynaecology scans per year. I have published many articles on the subject of women and newborn health and won several awards.

Qualifications: Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, Bachelor of Medical Sciences, Member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Member of the Royal College of General Practitioners, Diploma of the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare, Letter of Competence in Intrauterine techniques, Letter of Competence in Subdermal Implants, Certificate in Ultrasound.

Angela Nicholson

Specialist Nurse Practitioner Sonographer, Nominated CQC individual

With a career spanning 25 years, Angela has developed extensive expertise in women’s health, focusing predominantly on Gynaecology. She specialises in early pregnancy and fertility care, areas she finds both rewarding and meaningful. Her work includes performing detailed gynaecological scans, such as those for fertility assessments, early pregnancy monitoring, and diagnosing gynaecological conditions, always aiming to provide reassurance and support to women during critical times.

A highly experienced ultrasound trainer, she regularly teaches radiography students and Obstetric Registrars advanced scanning techniques, sharing her expertise in gynaecological and early pregnancy imaging. Her dedication to excellence in these fields has earned her several prestigious awards, which she considers a great honour.

She believes the reassurance provided by Somerset Early Scans through detailed gynaecological, early pregnancy, and fertility scans is invaluable. She is proud to be part of a team dedicated to empowering women with confidence and clarity during their health journeys.

Qualifications: Angela holds a Diploma in Midwifery from the University of Exeter (1993) and a Postgraduate Certificate in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Ultrasound from the University of the West of England, Bristol (2004). She is also a registered member of the Health and Care Professions Council and the Society of Radiographers, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards.

Victoria Davis, Lead Sonographer

Victoria has worked as a senior-level Obstetrics and Gynaecology Sonographer for over twenty years at a regional expert NHS centre, gaining extensive experience in complex gynaecological, early pregnancy, and foetal medicine scanning. In addition, she has significant experience in private practice, having previously worked at Clarion in Bath. Her role has included teaching ultrasound to radiography students and Obstetric Registrars, as well as leading initiatives in quality assurance to ensure the highest standards of care.

She has a particular passion for early pregnancy and gynaecological scans, where her sensitive and empathetic approach is vital. These scans often involve patients experiencing anxiety or uncertainty, and she finds immense satisfaction in providing reassurance, delivering clear answers, and supporting women and couples during these critical moments. Her expertise also extends to foetal medicine scanning, offering detailed insights into foetal health and development while ensuring patients feel confident and cared for.

As a mother of three and someone with personal experience of pregnancy loss, she deeply understands the emotional challenges that expectant mothers and fathers face. She approaches her work with compassion, kindness, and a genuine commitment to helping clients feel reassured and supported.

She is delighted to be working with Suvarna and the team at Somerset Early Scans, where she can contribute to providing valuable care and support to couples not only in the early stages but throughout pregnancy.

Qualifications: Victoria holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound and a Diploma of the College of Radiographers (Bath). She is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council, is a member of the Society of Radiographers, and is listed on the Public Voluntary Register of Sonographers.

Beata Anderson, Sonographer

Bea finds immense fulfilment in working in early pregnancy clinics, where she has the privilege of supporting women during a unique and often vulnerable time in their lives. She is passionate about using her skills to ease patients’ anxiety through reassurance, compassionate care, and clear communication, helping them feel supported and confident as they navigate early pregnancy.

She is thrilled to be part of Somerset Early Scans, embracing the opportunity to provide invaluable care to women and their families as they journey through this extraordinary yet sometimes challenging period of life. Her role allows her to offer detailed gynaecological scans, early pregnancy assessments, and foetal medicine imaging, all with a focus on delivering both clinical precision and emotional reassurance. She is particularly skilled at identifying and addressing concerns in a way that puts patients at ease, ensuring they leave their appointments feeling informed and cared for.

She has worked in women’s health for over five years, including in gynaecology and early pregnancy care. Prior to completing her ultrasound training, she worked in the community as a mental health nurse and as a nursing assistant in a busy Early Pregnancy Unit in Bristol, further broadening her understanding of patient needs and holistic care.

As the mother of twin boys, she brings personal insight into the complexities of pregnancy. Having experienced a high-risk pregnancy herself, she wholeheartedly understands the anxieties parents often face during this time and channels this empathy into her patient care.

Qualifications: Bea holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Ultrasound from the University of the West of England, a Diploma in Mental Health, and is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. She is also a member of the Society of Radiographers, reflecting her dedication to maintaining the highest professional standards.

Hannah Johnson, Sonographer

Hannah brings over 13 years of experience in the NHS, including 11 years as an accomplished Sonographer in a busy NHS hospital, specializing in Obstetric and Gynaecological ultrasound scans with expertise in managing complex cases.

Her dedication to personalized care and empathetic communication reflects her commitment to supporting women during challenging times. She considers her role a privilege, providing reassurance through thorough diagnostics and helping patients navigate the uncertainties of pregnancy and gynaecological health with confidence and understanding.

Hannah also works in a busy tertiary teaching hospital, delivering advanced gynaecological care. She is passionate about ensuring women feel supported during scans and emphasizes the importance of offering reassurance and clear, compassionate communication in every interaction.

She believes that Somerset Early Scans aligns with her professional ethos of compassionate and patient-centred care. She is eager to further develop her skills and make a meaningful contribution to improving outcomes for women by leveraging her experience in managing complex gynaecological and obstetric cases.

As a mother of two young children, she brings a deeply personal understanding of perinatal anxiety and the emotional challenges associated with antenatally detected foetal abnormalities. This perspective further enriches her empathetic and patient-focused approach to care.

Qualifications: Hannah holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Ultrasound from the University of the West of England and a BSc in Diagnostic Radiography from the University of Leeds. She is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and is a proud member of the Society of Radiographers, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards.

Jane Chippett, Advanced Practitioner Sonographer

Jane is a highly qualified Diagnostic Radiographer with expertise spanning general X-ray imaging, Computed Tomography (CT), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), giving her a comprehensive skill set in medical imaging. She has pursued further training in Medical Ultrasound, specialising in Obstetrics and Gynaecological scanning, and brings over 30 years of experience to the field. Her career has seen her working in hospitals across Somerset and Bristol, as well as contributing to the success of Somerset Early Scans, where her compassionate approach has supported countless patients during key moments in their lives. She has also taken on roles as a staff trainer, a Dementia Champion, and a lead in quality assurance, all reflecting her dedication to high standards of care and support.

Outside of work, she enjoys travelling across the UK and Europe in her caravan, embracing activities like walking, cycling, and spending time with her family, including her cherished twin granddaughters. Her caring nature extends to her community, where she participates in village amateur dramatic productions and volunteers with the Somerset library service, providing books and companionship to the elderly.

Qualifications: Jane holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound (UWE) and a Diploma of the College of Radiographers (St Bartholomew’s, London). She is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council, is a member of the Society of Radiographers, and the British Medical Ultrasound Society.

Bridget Jones, Clinic Assistant

Bridget Jones works as the Clinic Assistant at Somerset Early Scans, based at Elm Hayes Surgery in Paulton. Her career began as a general nurse, working in hospitals in Germany and Bath, where she gained extensive experience in operating theatres. Over time, she specialised in elderly care and palliative care, building a strong foundation in providing compassionate, patient-focused support. After retiring from nursing in 2010, Bridget continued to care for others by supporting an elderly friend and nursing her mother through dementia.

Bridget’s wealth of experience in healthcare and her empathetic nature enable her to provide invaluable support to women during their scans at Somerset Early Scans. Her calming presence and ability to offer reassurance make her an integral part of the team, ensuring every patient feels cared for and supported during often significant moments in their healthcare journey. Since joining Somerset Early Scans three years ago, Bridget has found a renewed sense of purpose. She takes great pride in her role and feels deeply fulfilled by the opportunity to work alongside a dedicated team that shares her passion for women’s well-being.

Bridget is married with two wonderful children but holds dear the memory of the two babies she lost, who remain an enduring part of her life. Outside of work, she enjoys singing and performing with Rock Choir, where she has had the privilege of performing at iconic venues such as Longleat House, the Civic Hall in Trowbridge, and Hyde Park in London, alongside some well-known artists. She also loves travelling in her caravan, embracing her adventurous spirit, which she affectionately describes as having a touch of gypsy in her.

Laura Mawson, Clinic Assistant

Laura Mawson is a compassionate and dedicated Clinic Assistant at Somerset Early Scans, where she plays a vital role in supporting women and their families during some of the most significant and emotional moments in their lives. Her empathetic approach and personal experiences make her an invaluable part of the team, helping to create a welcoming and reassuring environment for every client.

Before joining Somerset Early Scans, Laura worked as Head of Department at an insurance broker. During her maternity leave with her first child, she took voluntary redundancy, seeking a more fulfilling role that aligned with her passion for supporting others. As a former client of Somerset Early Scans, she knew first-hand the difference the clinic’s care can make, and when she saw the role advertised, she eagerly applied. Now, Laura is proud to be part of a team that provides women with the reassurance, understanding, and personalised care they deserve.

Laura considers it a privilege to meet and support the inspiring women and families who come through Somerset Early Scans. Her own journey through 11 years of unexplained infertility and the eventual joy of having two beautiful rainbow boys allows her to empathise deeply with the challenges women face, as well as the impact these challenges have on their loved ones.

Happily married for 15 years, Laura treasures time with her family. As a busy mum, much of her free time is spent at playgrounds, watching Teletubbies, or enjoying arts and crafts with her boys. When she finds a rare moment for herself, she loves swimming and indulging in the occasional cocktail. Laura feels incredibly fortunate to be part of Somerset Early Scans, where her personal and professional experiences come together to support others in a meaningful way.

Rebecca Ward, Clinic Assistant

Rebecca Ward is a dedicated Clinic Assistant at Somerset Early Scans, where her personal experiences and compassionate approach play a key role in supporting women and families during their journeys. At 49 years old, Rebecca is a proud mother to her wonderful 26-year-old daughter and her lovely 9-year-old son. Having faced her own struggles during both pregnancies, she feels incredibly fortunate to have her children in her life. These experiences have given Rebecca a profound understanding and empathy for the couples who visit the clinic, many of whom are navigating similar challenges.

Rebecca considers it a privilege to be part of the Somerset Early Scans team, working alongside a group of dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing vital and reassuring care. She values the opportunity to support patients during such pivotal moments in their lives, understanding first-hand how important a calm and compassionate approach can be. Whether it’s offering a listening ear or helping to create a warm, welcoming environment, Rebecca is deeply committed to ensuring every patient feels valued and supported.

In addition to her work at Somerset Early Scans, Rebecca enjoys spending her free time outdoors. She loves walking, swimming, and taking trips to the beach, where she can unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. She also cherishes the simple pleasures of life, such as catching up with friends over coffee and cake. Rebecca feels grateful to be part of a team that goes above and beyond to provide exceptional care, knowing just how impactful and reassuring the clinic’s services can be for women and their families.