The questions listed below are the most frequently asked questions about our elective prenatal ultrasound packages. Should you have any questions that are not answered below, please call us at (719) 358-9280 or click here to contact us.
What is an elective prenatal ultrasound?
We offer elective 2D, 3D & 4D prenatal ultrasounds to provide a positive bonding experience for the mother, father and family members with the unborn baby. We feel that realistic surface images provide a connection between the parents and baby that can be beneficial to the whole family.
We make no claims that 3-D as used in this examination is performed to better assess the baby for abnormalities. A routine ultrasound examination must have already been performed to assess the gestational age of the fetus and to evaluate for fetal anomalies as well as the basic components of fetal anatomy recommended for screening.
Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor’s office?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound with Baby Expressions 3D/4D Ultrasound MUST be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care and have already undergone a medical, diagnostic ultrasound ordered by their provider to confirm their due date, screen for fetal anomalies, and to look for any other pregnancy related issues. Please note, at no time is your ultrasound session at our facility to be used in place of a complete diagnostic ultrasound.
Is it safe? Are there any risks to me, or my baby?
Extensive studies over 35 years have found that ultrasound has not been shown to cause any maternal or fetal harm. Routine diagnostic scanning of all pregnancies is now a normal procedure. 3D/4D scans use EXACTLY the same type and intensity of ultrasonic waves as in conventional 2D scan.
The combination of increased data gathering (listening) by the transducer and software interpretation after data acquisition creates these amazing 3D 4D images and not a higher intensity, frequency or ‘power’ output. Our guidelines dictate the systems to be used in the Obstetric Application Mode. This mode is capped by the manufacturer (GE) below the FDA limits (94 milliwatts/cm2) for exposure. In fact, the system takes simultaneous 2D scans in saggital, coronal and transverse planes and the software renders the 3D 4D images. It’s that simple!
We provide forms to mothers and physicians/midwives with clear written statements of the services offered at First View Ultrasound. We highly recommend that parents discuss with their doctor about any safety concern on 3D 4D ultrasound.
Published studies on ultrasounds can be reviewed below on Dr. Joseph Woo’s world renowned website, a highly respected source of information on maternal-fetal medicine.
What kind of ultrasound equipment do you use to perform the 3D/4D ultrasound
We use the state of the art GE Voluson 730 PRO to complete all Ultrasound examinations. The GE Voluson 730 PRO has been seen in GE television commercials and many printed articles from around the world. This machine is the best 2D, 3D and 4D Ultrasound machine available. Please note, many organizations claim to use “state-of-the-art” equipment, when in fact they use older or inferior technology. Only the GE Voluson 730 generates 3D images with amazing clarity and gives you the same clarity with 4D imagery of your baby in motion. Our sonogram equipment allows you to see your baby in live motion video unlike any other on the market today.
Please note: Imitators may claim that their equipment such as Medison or Aloka uses more advanced technology. This is simply not the case. General Electric, with its unparalled research and development resources, continues to lead the industry’s technological advances and our equipment is regularly updated to give you access to the most advanced technology available.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services.
How far along should I be before I have a 4D ultrasound?
If you plan on having only one 4D ultrasound examination, we would recommend having the examination performed between the 24th and 32th week of the pregnancy. However, excellent images of your baby can be obtained anytime after about 22 weeks of pregnancy. Many mothers obtain more than one 4D ultrasound and have images to enjoy from their second and third trimesters.
Will I always get a beautiful image of my baby?
Unfortunately there are no guarantees. There are things that are beyond our control. The babies position, the amount of amniotic fluid, and the mothers body type. If it does happen we encourage you to come back another day. We want everyone to be totally satisfied.
Will I have to pay if I am not satisfied with the results?
No, we will rescan you as many times as is necessary so that you are satisfied. Our best customer is a happy one. We get more business from word of mouth then anything else.
Can I bring my family and friends?
Absolutely! This is a family event, plus we welcome children. The more the merrier. Our record for guests for one family is 24!!!
Are you able to tell the sex of the baby?
Yes, in most cases we can provide an indication of the sex of the baby. We can’t however guarantee that the baby will cooperate during your session. Certain factors such as body tissue content, developmental stage and fetal position all affect the ability to determine sex.
Is the 4D ultrasound covered by insurance?
This is an elective procedure so they do not cover it. We do accept Mastercard, Visa.
How much does it cost?
We have packages to fit just about anyone’s budget. We continuously strive to provide the highest quality products and packages at the most affordable costs. We always have special discounts so continue to visit our website or call us for details on our latest discounts at (719) 358-9280.