3D Ultrasound

What is 3D Ultrasound?

3D ultrasounds utilize high frequency sound waves via a handheld probe to emit and capture impulses of ultrasound waves emitted at various angles to gather high resolution 3D images of the developing fetus. The results are an amazingly clear view of the placenta and umbilical cord allowing obstetrician’s unparalleled access to the health of baby and mother. 3D ultrasound serves as the springboard for the newest 4D ultrasound technology which streams 3D ultrasound images together into real time video allowing for viewers to safely study fetal behavior in the womb.

What is Elective or Non Diagnostic 3D Ultrasound?

Non diagnostic 3D/4D ultrasound is becoming more and more popular for expecting parents and allows for the early bonding and preservation of fetal development and behavior. Over the past few years many elective 3D ultrasound centers have sprung up around the country offering different options for viewing and capturing images and video for family bonding. Prices for basic 2D ultrasounds coupled with gender determination and a few black/white images typically range from $120. More advanced 3D ultrasound packages including video and DVD recordings, color 3D prints and CD’s of images range in price from $165-$300. Available now through some ultrasound centers is 1800SONOLIVE. 1800SONOLIVE allows ultrasound center customers to invite friends and family anywhere in the world to view their live 4D ultrasound session via the web with a simple internet connection.

3D/4D Ultrasound Centers – What Should I Know?

If you’re interested or planning a prenatal non diagnostic 3D Ultrasound there are a few things you should know before choosing the 3D ultrasound center in your neighborhood.

First, be sure the 4D ultrasound center you choose adherer’s to all local, state, and federal regulations regarding the safe use of ultrasound. Second, take a look at the packages the sonogram studios in your city offer; a session that lasts more than 25-30 minutes doesn’t have your best interests or safety in mind. And finally, never expose your baby to ultrasound at any level during the first trimester of pregnancy.

What is a Diagnostic 3D Ultrasound?

3D Ultrasounds have been used in obstetrics mainly for diagnostic purposes for over 50 years to determine important information about the mother and baby such as:

Mother

 

• Ovarian Inconsistencies
• Multiple Births
• Irregular Bleeding
• Placental Placement

Baby

 

• Baby’s age
• Baby’s sex
• Baby’s size
• Cleft Lip
• Cleft Palette

Do Sonogram Studios Conduct Diagnostic Ultrasounds?

Most sonogram studios when conducting elective 4D Ultrasounds do a limited diagnostic ultrasound which looks for the placental location, number and position of the baby, and heartbeat confirmation. There are Elective 3D/4D ultrasound studios that both offer full diagnostic ultrasounds and non-diagnostic ultrasounds.