Frequently Asked Questions

 

+ What is a 3D/4D/5D Ultrasound?

Like all ultrasound studies, the 3D/4D/5D uses high frequency sound waves to create images that can be viewed on a monitor screen. In the 3D/4D/5D scan you are able to see your baby in a 3D – more life like image, instead of the familiar flat, grainy 2D pictures. The 4th dimension is real time movement. You may be able to catch your baby smiling, yawning or sucking his/her thumb.

+ Is it safe?

Prenatal ultrasound has been used widely over the last 45 years and no studies that we are aware of have shown ultrasound to cause any harm to the mother or baby. If you have ANY concerns about the safety of ultrasound we URGE you to speak to your healthcare professional before making your appointment. Your healthcare professional is ALWAYS your best source of information for any health concerns. You must be under the care of a healthcare professional and supply us with the name and contact information to use our service.

+ Who will be performing my scan?

Only medically trained sonographers who are trained in the safe and efficient use of our equipment and in obtaining the best images possible of your baby will perform diagnostic scans.

+ Why is it important that my scan be performed by a medically trained Sonographer only?

Unfortunately, during the course of a pregnancy, there are from time to time, situations that may potentially arise regarding the health and development of a baby. Often times, it may be something that has developed or presented itself following the initial ultrasound at the Obstetrician’s office, but is identified during your ultrasound at our facility. Without the watchful eye of a medically trained sonographer, these type of situations could go undetected. It is imperative that the individual performing ANY ultrasound be formally educated and trained to identify potential issues that may affect you or your unborn baby.

+ When should I have my scan done?

We offer ultrasounds from 5-40 weeks gestation. In order to help provide peace of mind in the early stages of pregnancy, we offer vaginal ultrasounds as early as 5 weeks and abdominal ultrasounds as early as 8 weeks. If your main desire is to find out if you’re going to be buying pink or blue, we begin gender determinations at just 13 weeks. Be aware that the baby is still quite skeletal at this point. The best time to see details of the features is 26-34 weeks when the baby has more fat on his/her body but still has room to move around. Some parents choose to come early for gender determination and then come back when the baby has more fat. Keep in mind that there are MANY variables involved in getting clear images.

+ How will I pay for my 3D/4D/5D Ultrasound?

We accept major credit cards, debit cards and cash. Since this is not a diagnostic procedure, insurance companies will not pay for your scan. Consider our service like taking your baby to a photography studio and having portraits made.

+ Can friends or family come with me for my appointment?

We welcome your family and friends to share the joy of this once in a lifetime experience. Children are welcome but with VERY FEW exceptions become restless and bored very quickly. Many parents cannot really enjoy seeing the new baby while wrestling a crying toddler, trying to entertain a preschooler etc.

+ I don’t want to know the sex of my baby – can I still get a 3D/4D/5D ultrasound?

Absolutely! We will focus on the upper body and face as we usually do. Most untrained people would not be able to identify the gender of a baby even if given the opportunity to see the genital area.

+ What days and hours are you open?

We are open by appointment Monday through Saturday. We have evening appointments Monday through Friday with the last appointment at 7:00 p.m and we’re open until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday.

+ How should I prepare for my ultrasound?

We recommend that you increase your water intake for several days in advance of your appointment. Water is vital for the baby during pregnancy, so make sure you are drinking at least 6-8 glasses a day. If you are finding it difficult to get your daily intake, try infusing your water with lemon or other fruits!

+ What if my baby is uncooperative?

Our team of sonographers is highly trained in capturing the highest quality images of your baby. However, position of the baby, umbilical cord, placenta, and amniotic fluid levels all affect the images we are able to obtain. If we are unable to get pictures of your baby on the day of your appointment, we will have you return free of charge for a rescan. Please note: rescans must be completed within 2 weeks of your initial appointment date.