What is the difference between 3D, 4D and HD Live ultrasound? • A 2D ultrasound is the standard black and white photo you typically receive at your doctors appointment. The 3D ultrasound gives in depth detail of baby such as the facial features. 4D is the movement of your baby in the womb and lastly HD Live which is the newest technology in 3D/4D imagery that provides you with the most detailed and realistic images, as well as a richer, sharper color. When is the best time to get a 4D ultrasound? • If you plan on having only one 4D session we would recommend having the ultrasound performed between the 26th and 32nd week of pregnancy. However, excellent images of your baby can be obtained anytime after about 22 weeks of pregnancy(keep in mind, mid 30 weeks depending on various factors, the baby does start becoming a little squished in there and can be harder to get photos as you near 40 weeks). Many mothers obtain more than one 4D ultrasound and have images from their second and third trimester as the baby develops and puts on weight. Will I always get a clear beautiful picture of my baby? • Typically, but not always. There are various factors that sometimes get in the way of the clearest photos like baby looking toward your spine making it difficult to get a profile view, hands covering their face the whole time and other factors such as amniotic fluid and gestational age. We do have a redo policy here at Lasting Memories so if your sonographer needs to re-schedule another appointment, they will make that call and schedule you back within a 2 week period from that appointment. Is this safe for me and baby? Does it pose any risk? • There have been extensive studies conducted that have found that ultrasound has not been shown to cause any harm to mother or baby. Routine scans are normal, and additional elective ultrasounds do not pose any further risk. In 3D/4D scanning, the exact same type and intensity of ultrasound is used as with conventional 2D scanning utilizing sound waves to look inside the body. Do elective ultrasounds take place of doctors office ultrasounds? • Absolutely not! This is an elective ultrasound and does not take the place of an ultrasound at your doctor’s office. Prior to coming into our office for an elective prenatal ultrasound, you must already be seeing a healthcare provider for prenatal care and have already undergone a medical, diagnostic ultrasound ordered by your provider to confirm due dates, screen for fetal anomalies, and to look for any other pregnancy related issues. Are you able to confirm/tell the sex of my baby? • In most cases we can provide the sex of your baby, but we cannot guarantee the baby will cooperate during your session. There are other factors as well such as body tissue content, fetal position and their developmental stage. Is an elective ultrasound covered by insurance? • Currently insurance does not cover elective ultrasounds, as this is not a medical need. Some Health savings account cards work and we also take cash and credit/debit cards. Can family/friends come? • Yes, you can bring family/friends to your ultrasound. Having a baby is a joyous and celebratory time in your life and we want you to enjoy this experience as much as possible. Is there anything I need to do to prepare? • Daily intake of 100 ounces of water is recommended for expectant moms. Hydration is key to clear scans and essential to beautiful pictures of your baby. What kind of technology/machine is used to complete the 3D|4D|HD ultrasound? • We use the state-of-the-art technology – the GE Voluson E8 High Definition (HD) machine. This GE system has been shown in TV commercials and featured in many articles from around the world. It is THE machine to perform 4D live-motion ultrasound. Please note, many centers claim to use “state-of-the-art” equipment, when in fact they use older, inferior technology or do software upgrades for 4D configuration. This compromises the quality of images. Unquestionably, it’s the machine that makes the biggest difference in 4D technology. So insist on a GE system.