3D/4D Ultrasounds
High-tech Bonding for Parents-to-Be
For those of you that have had a child, I am sure you fondly remember the moment you first saw the baby either at birth or on the grainy black and white screen of an ultrasound machine. Most parents would agree it is a life-changing event that melts your heart. But imagine being able to see three-dimensional images that reveal facial features and four-dimensional videos of the baby moving inside the womb. Now, thanks to recent advances in technology, expectant families are able to bond with their babies before birth. This technology, known as 3D/4D ultrasound, provides a new, clearer window into their baby's world.
3D/4D ultrasounds are used for bonding purposes while promoting prenatal care. Expectant moms are able to bring family and friends giving the entire family the opportunity to bond with the newest family member. Moms are seeking the elective ultrasounds because they feel it will have a positive impact on their pregnancy, as mothers tend to improve their diets and eliminate harmful behaviors after seeing the baby and giving her a feeling of the pregnancy being more real. Studies by American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) have supported that 3D ultrasounds will positively influence parents’ bond with their babies. Other benefits are increased paternal involvement, empathy, appreciation and family support. Ultrasound has been in use for over 35 years and no harmful effects have ever been shown from responsible use.
Tips for finding a responsible 3D/4D provider
Moms have choices when choosing a 3D/4D facility. It is important to find a provider that offers safety and professionalism. A responsible provider will require proof that a client is receiving prenatal care during her pregnancy. It is also equally as important to find out the qualifications of the person performing the ultrasound. The safest facility will only use RDMS registered sonographers. These sonographers have had extensive schooling and are educated in keeping within the FDA-established levels for frequency and power for prenatal use and will not exceed safe scanning time. In addition they are able to detect an abnormal finding should one be seen that might not have been previously detected. In this case having a medical director with protocols in place to relay the information to mom’s provider is even better to ensure mom's safety. A responsible facility will also have a redo policy in place. They will end the session without exceeding the safe scanning time if baby is not in the optimal position for obtaining good images, as the number one priority is to ensure safety for mom and baby. So do your homework and find a comfortable facility that follows the recommended guidelines and check the credentials of the staff and you are sure to have a rewarding 3D/4D ultrasound experience.
