3D/4D ultrasounds
Your View Inside
What is 3D/4D Ultrasound?
Most mothers are naturally curious about the new life that they are carrying. Nine months is a long time to wait to see what your baby looks like! There have been advances in ultrasound technology that allow expectant parents to see more than an one angle, flat, black and white view of their new bundle of joy. This technology, referred to as 3D or 4D ultrasound, provides a new, crisp, clearer picture into their new baby’s universe.
How Does Ultrasound Work?
An ultrasound is the output of sound waves reflected to form a picture of the unborn baby. 2D ultrasound (referred to as “traditional” ultrasound) has been in use for over 35 years. 2D ultrasound uses sound waves in a single pane. The ultrasound is reflected back resulting in a one dimensional black and white image.
3D ultrasounds work by a slightly different process. The same sound waves used in traditional ultrasounds are used with a process referred to as “surface rendering”. The sounds waves are reflected back at various angles so that a 3D image of the fetus is produced. The details of the baby can be viewed with a clear more apparent view than a “traditional” ultrasound.
4D ultrasound is taken in the same way as 3D ultrasound. Instead of looking at a still image (3D), you are able to view live “video” of the fetus in the womb (4D).
Concerns About Ultrasound During Pregnancy
There is concern that patients will opt to get too many unnecessary ultrasounds. The equipment is regulated, and the practice of ultrasound for prenatal care has a good safety record…what is the issue?
Well, if the argument of ultrasound safety was based on overall exposure, then consider this question: “If multiple ultrasound exposure is a cause for concern, then why do higher-risk pregnancies typically receive so many?”
Some doctors are concerned that mothers will use these elective ultrasounds in lieu of an ultrasound prescribed by their physicians. Their concern is that a technician may try to present diagnostic information that should only be interpreted by a board-certified physician.
An elective ultrasound should be used to complement the ultrasound sessions prescribed by a physician. The ultimate purpose of an elective session is as a bonding, delightful experience with the new baby.
Impacts of Bonding
Seeing a realistic view into the womb of the soon to be baby, makes the pregnancy much more real. The bonding experience that the mother and father experience from a 3D ultrasound is massive. For siblings and extended family members the 3D session brings a sense of familial closeness during a very important and precious time.
Finding a Responsible Ultrasound Provider
Safety and professionalism is very important when choosing a 3D/4D ultrasound provider. You should be required to show proof that you are seeing a healthcare provider for prenatal care. You will need to have already completed a full-anatomical, second trimester ultrasound.
A good provider should keep within FDA set levels for frequency and power for prenatal use. The scan should be limited to less than 25 minutes per session. If anything adverse is discovered, the session should be suspended, and all findings should be referred to the mother’s healthcare provider.
The chosen 3D/4D provider and staff should be friendly, caring, and professional. This is an amazing breakthrough for mothers and family to see clear images of the baby before its arrival day. Make sure that it is the most pleasant and enjoyable experience it can be. Enjoy your first peek!