Considering 3D or 4D Ultrasound?

For clarity on what to expect when getting an ultrasound during pregnancy, here are some frequently asked questions with answers provided by Jennifer Salac, owner and lead tech at Hey Baby! 4D Ultrasound Studio in Wexford, PA.

What is the difference between 3D, 4D, and HD ultrasound?

3D is a still image while 4D adds the dimension of motion, so it looks like a video. HD, or high-definition, ultrasounds add an extra dimension of light to give you an even more life-like image of your baby.

Is 3D and 4D ultrasound safe for me and my baby?

3D and 4D ultrasound use the same frequency as your doctor uses in the normal 2D ultrasound. Ultrasounds have been used for over 35 years and there have been no proven side effects from its proper use. We strictly adhere to the FDA’s standards.

When is the best time to have a 3D/4D ultrasound?

That depends on what you are looking to see. Many mothers like coming in twice, early on between 15-25 weeks when they can see the baby as a whole and then again at 28-34 weeks to see a more detailed face. Between 28 and 32 weeks, your baby develops more fat and gets a more defined face. After 34 weeks, it becomes more and more difficult to obtain good pictures since the baby is running out of room. However, all babies are different and we have been successful in obtaining great images all the way up to birth.

How good are ultrasounds at determining the sex of the baby?

At 15 weeks, we can determine the gender with high accuracy. If you meet the weekly requirements and the gender cannot be seen, we invite you back for a weekday return appointment and we will rescan you for free within the next 10 days. The need for a return visit is usually due to the baby’s position.

How can I be sure to get the best possible 3D/4D pictures?

Most doctors recommend maintaining a healthy fluid intake, especially while you are pregnant. This will help to ensure your amniotic fluid is clear as well as full. There are many things out of the sonographer’s control like the baby’s position, the mother’s skin type and build, amount of amniotic fluid, etc. that can impact that quality of the picture. However, doing your part to stay hydrated really helps us in getting the best picture of your baby.

What should I do prior to the 3D/4D appointment?

We recommend increasing your water intake at least 4 days before your appointment to ensure your amniotic fluid is clear. About half an hour before your 3D/4D ultrasound scan, try to drink a fruit juice so that your baby will be awake during your session (unless you are told not to by your physician). Please remove any piercing on the abdomen and hip/pelvic region as we cannot scan anyone wearing metal piercings.

How long is the ultrasound session?

Depending on the ultrasound package that you select, your session will last between 5 and 30 minutes. However, plan on spending 30 minutes at an ultrasound studio so that we can send you home with memories to last a lifetime. It is also best to arrive a few minutes early to fill out any paperwork.

Keep in mind that 3D and 4D ultrasounds are not typically used to diagnose problems with your baby. Also, getting an ultrasound is not a substitute for prenatal care.

Article and photos provided by Jennifer Salac, Hey Baby! 4D Ultrasound Studio, Wexford, PA. All of the Ultrasound Technologists at Hey Baby! 4D Ultrasound are board certified through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Jennifer, the owner and lead tech, has over 25 years of experience in ultrasound. Jessica and Marissa have over 10 years experience each in ultrasound. Personally, we are all Moms with little ones and love remembering how exciting this time of life is. Getting an ultrasound is such a fun and emotionally bonding experience!

Gender Reveal items in stock: Confetti and Powder Cannons, Sports Balls, Smoke Sticks and even Hot Chocolate Bombs! Also, for a great keepsake, we can record the baby’s heartbeat to put into your choice of stuffed animal! On Tuesday evenings we have a phlebotomist that comes in for the Sneak Peek Clinical when moms can find out the gender of baby at 8 weeks! Results are sent the next day. All sneak peek clients will receive a coupon to come back between 15-17 weeks to confirm gender by ultrasound and to get pictures!