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Frequently asked questions
What is an elective 3D and 4D prenatal ultrasound?
A 3D/4D prenatal ultrasound is a way to view realistic images of your baby. This type of ultrasound is a way to provide a positive bonding experience for the mother, father, and loved ones with the baby. We feel that realistic surface images provide a connection between the parents and baby that can be beneficial to the whole family. An elective 3D/4D ultrasound does NOT assess the gestational age of the fetus or 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 Image of Love Ultrasound must already be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care and may only rely on a 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 this exam to be used in place of a complete diagnostic ultrasound.
How is this different than the ultrasound performed/ordered by my Doctor?
Many women have a diagnostic ultrasound performed at 18-20 weeks. In some cases, your doctor or sonographer may even take some pictures and videos of your baby in 3D/4D but this is a very different experience than an elective ultrasound at our facility. A diagnostic ultrasound is focused on looking for abnormalities and performing diagnostic measurements. While it is necessary to assess the health and growth of your baby, we provide a different experience than what you get at your doctor’s office. We provide a relaxed environment and interactive bonding experience. In addition, the best pictures of your baby will be captured later in your pregnancy beyond 18-20 weeks when the baby is bigger and more developed.
Is it safe? Are there any risks to me, or my baby?
Extensive studies over the past 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 world. In 3D/4D scanning, the same type and intensity of ultrasound is used as with conventional 2D scanning that you get at your doctor’s office. 3D/4D Ultrasound both utilize sound waves to look inside the body and there is absolutely no radiation.
What if during the scan you discover there is no fetus?
If there is no fetus present during the scan, you will still be charged a service fee of $59.00. You will not receive any pictures, CDs, or another other material. The exam will promptly end. Our ultrasounds are for entertainment use only. Diagnostic images will not be provided. You will have to follow up with your doctor in the event there is no fetus. A redo session will not be provided until you can show proof that you have seen your doctor.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services. You can call or schedule online.
How long does the 3D/4D ultrasound take?
We schedule a full hour for all of our 3D/4D Experiences and the ultrasound itself will last between 25-30 minutes. We schedule 30 minutes for the Heartbeat and Gender Determination packages. These ultrasounds will last between 10 and 15 minutes.
How far along should I be before I have a 3D/4D ultrasound?
If you plan on having only one 3D/4D ultrasound, we would recommend scheduling your appointment to take place between the 26th and 34th week of the pregnancy. However, excellent images of your baby can be obtained any time after about 22 weeks of pregnancy and up until your baby's birth. Many mothers choose to have more than one 3D/4D ultrasound and have images to enjoy from their second and third trimesters.
Will I always get a beautiful picture of my baby?
Usually, but not always. Sometimes if the baby is persistently positioned facing your spine it may be difficult to see the baby's face. If this happens, a repeat scan will usually be more successful because the baby may have 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 clinic. 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.
How can I help get the best possible pictures of my baby?
First, pay attention to when your baby is most active during the day and try to schedule your appointment during that time. Second, pay attention to whether eating and drinking impact your baby's energy levels and try to eat or not eat right before your ultrasound. Many babies seem to perk up after Mommy drinks cold and/or fruity beverages so we recommend having a fruit smoothie on your way to your appointment. It is important not to be dehydrated right before your appointment because this may negatively impact your level of amniotic fluid and your pictures. Finally, many times, the best pictures of your baby will be obtained when he or she has turned head downward so if you know that your baby is breach, you may want to post-pone your appointment a week or two to increase the chance of your baby turning before your appointment.
Can I bring my family and friends?
Yes. In fact, we encourage our clients to invite family and friends to attend the elective 3D/4D ultrasound session. This is a joyous and wonderful experience, one that can be shared with your family and loved ones. We can accommodate up to 5 guests seated and many more standing.
Are you able to tell the sex of the baby?
Yes, in most cases we can provide an indication of the gender 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 gender. If we are unable to determine this, we will bring you back at no charge to try again.
Is the 3D/4D ultrasound covered by my Medical Insurance?
At this point, insurance does not cover the costs of our ultrasounds. Since this is an elective procedure and is not intended to be a replacement for your doctor ordered ultrasound, you will need to pay the cost of this ultrasound as an out of pocket expense. We accept cash, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover cards.
How much does it cost?
We have packages to fit just about anyone's budget. Visit our packages and pricing page to find the package right for you!
Who is a medical oversight and why are they important?