3D/4D Ultrasound
How does 2D Ultrasound differ from 3D/4D Ultrasound?
In general, most people are familiar with the traditional 2D ultrasound or sonogram. An image of your baby is produced when a hand held device called a transducer sends high frequency sound waves into your body. These waves bounce back to the transducer which produces the image on the computer screen. The 2D ultrasound images are produced from only one “slice” (angle) which results in the conventional flat, black and white image of the baby. 3D ultrasound utilizes the same technology as 2D. However, the computer software is more advanced and is generated from multiple “slices” which creates a more detailed 3 dimensional image of your baby. 4D ultrasound (also known as 3D live) incorporates real time and allows parents to watch their baby in action doing things such as sucking his/her thumb, smiling, yawning or kicking in the womb.
Is 3D/4D Ultrasound safe?
Ultrasound technology has been used by health care providers for over 30 years with no confirmed harmful biological effects on mothers or on growth and development of the babies. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) not only regulates the equipment used in ultrasound but also regulates and sets the standard safe power level of ultrasound imaging. In addition, the equipment used for ultrasound is the same equipment found throughout hospitals and doctors’ offices who utilize these machines for routine scanning of pregnancies. 3D/4D ultrasound uses the same intensity of scanning as conventional 2D ultrasound, which makes it safe.
When is the best time to schedule an appointment?
The best time to schedule a 3D/4D ultrasound session is between 26-32 weeks but outstanding images of the baby can be captured as early as 25 weeks. Many parents wish to obtain more than one 3D/4D ultrasound so they can experience the various stages of their baby’s development during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters.
Are all 3D/4D imaging centers created equal?
As the demand for this technology is increasing for 3D/4D ultrasound, so is the number of prenatal imaging centers that are growing to meet the demand. However, when choosing a 3D/4D imaging center, the following are important considerations to keep in mind when making your decision:
- A 3D/4D ultrasound is an elective procedure. Any reputable imaging center will require that you have proper medical care. A 3D/4D ultrasound should absolutely not be used in place of a physician’s exam or care. The proper role of the sonographer is to discuss only certain things with parents, which includes the number of babies, gender (only if you want to know) and position as well as allowing you to listen to the heartbeat.
- A 3D/4D ultrasound should only be performed by an experienced ARDMS (a registered diagnostic medical sonographer) who is certified in obstetrics. Simply knowing how to operate the machine is not enough. It is strongly advised that you do your research to ensure that your sonographer has the education, experience and knowledge to operate the machine in the safest manner in accordance with the AIUM (American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine) guidelines.
What other factors should I consider?
The success of obtaining clear images of your baby will depend on various factors including the stage of your pregnancy as well as the position of the baby during the exam. The ideal period of time to capture clear images of your baby is between weeks 26 and 32. This is the time when your baby’s features are more distinguishable due to the increase in fat layers of the baby’s face.
During this period of time, there is also more space in the womb. While a 2D ultrasound scans (or sees) through things such as umbilical cord or the placenta, these things become “solid” in a 3D ultrasound and can block a clear view of the baby’s face. However, when there is more room in the wound, the likelihood of obtaining a good image of the baby’s face increases.
Another consideration for a successful 3D ultrasound but more importantly to the healthy development of the pregnancy is the amount of amniotic fluid present. It is very important that expectant mothers stay well hydrated throughout their pregnancy. Mothers are advised to take in extra fluid several days before their appointments, which can assist in capturing the best images of the baby.
Please remember that each pregnancy is different and not all images will be the same. Therefore, sample images that are available on the Internet or seen on television usually highlight a sonographer’s best work but do not necessarily represent the norm. Also, remember, sometimes your little one may not want to cooperate on the date of your 3D ultrasound. If that is the case, it may be necessary for you to return at a later date when the position has changed. Don’t be discouraged if this occurs.
Ultimately, you want to choose an imaging center that will provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere with highly trained professionals and state of the art equipment. But more importantly, this experience should focus on creating and documenting a memorable introduction and bonding with your little one. Good luck on your amazing journey of parenthood!
