Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions Answered
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 send us an e-mail.
Q: 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.
Q: Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor’s office?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Women seeking an elective prenatal 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.
The issues that we are evaluating in the elective prenatal ultrasound session include a limited diagnostic scan to confirm heartbeat, the number of babies in the pregnancy, the position of the baby, and the placental location. Please note, at no time is this exam to be used in place of a complete diagnostic ultrasound.
Q: Is it safe? Are there any risks to me, or my baby?
Extensive studies over 30 years have found that ultrasound has not been shown to cause any harm to mother or baby. Routine scanning of all pregnancies is now normal throughout the United States. In 3D/4D scanning exactly the same type and intensity of ultrasound is used as with conventional 2D scanning. 3D and 4D Ultrasound both utilize sound waves to look inside the body. The technology is similar to radar. A probe placed on the body emits sound waves into the body, listens for the return echo and generates an image. 4D ultrasound will be similar to a conventional scan in terms of exposure.
Q: Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services.
Q: How long does the 3D and 4D ultrasound take?
Depending on the package you choose, the 4D ultrasound session will last between 20 and 30 minutes. Overall, it will be about one hour as we have to have some time to print and edit the pictures.
Q: 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 28th and 34th 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.
Q: Will I always get a beautiful image of my baby?
Usually, but not always – sometimes if the baby is persistently looking face down, ((i.e. directly towards Mommy’s spine for the 3D/4D experience)) it may be difficult to see the baby’s face. If this happens, a complimentary repeat scan will usually succeed because the baby has turned to a favorable position. We make no promises that the images will be similar to those you might have seen elsewhere or even from our Studio, or that we can always meet everyone’s expectations. Every baby scans differently, depending on its gestational age, position, amount of fluid, and mother’s condition. We promise to make every effort to obtain the best possible images of whatever parts of the baby that can be seen.
** Remember to ~ STAY WELL HYDRATED by drinking WATER. Ultrasound works best when the sound waves have fluid/water to travel through. A well hydrated system of the mom-to-be will help to optimize the image of your little Sweet Pea. Aim to drink about 64 fluid ounces (8-ounce glasses) of water per day for 5 days prior to your 3D/4D experience. (Water = Better Pictures!)
Q: Will I have to pay if I am not satisfied with the results?
Our best customer is a happy one. We get more business from word of mouth then anything else. In the rare event the baby is in a position that does not allow for satisfactory pictures or if the baby is in a position where he or she isn’t cooperating at all, the sonographer will make arrangements (at the time of the appointment) for you to come back in for another try.
Q: Can I bring my family and friends?
Absolutely, this is a family event. The more the merrier. We do have somewhat limited space so if you are going to bring friends and/or family, please call ahead so that we can make sure we can accommodate everyone.
Q: 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.
Q: Is the 4D ultrasound covered by Insurance?
This is an elective procedure so they do not cover it. We do accept Mastercard, Visa, and cash. We cannot accept personal checks.
Q: 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 (254) 776-6700.
See our list of packages and additional details!