3D/4D Ultrasound Frequently Asked Questions
These questions listed below are the most frequently asked questions about our elective prenatal ultrasound packages. Should you have any questions not answered please call us in Seattle at (206) 297-BABY (2229) or in Sacramento at (916) 419-3D4D (3343). Also feel free to send us an email at info@pregnancyjourney.com.
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. Realistic surface images provide a connection between the parents and baby that can be beneficial for everyone. Prior to your appointment with us, a routine ultrasound examination should have been performed that would have assessed the gestational age of the fetus and evaluated for fetal anomalies, as well as the basic components of fetal anatomy.
Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor's office?
Absolutely not! Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound with Pregnancy Journey must already be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care. They must have already undergone a medical, diagnostic ultrasound ordered by their provider to confirm due date, screen for fetal anomalies and to look for any other pregnancy related issues. Your imaging session at Pregnancy Journey is strictly an elective ultrasound. We demonstrate and document only the existence of a heartbeat. Please note, at no time is this elective experience to be confused with or used in place of a diagnostic ultrasound.
Is it safe? Are there any risks to my baby and I?
Extensive studies conducted over 35 years have found that ultrasound has not been shown to cause any harm to either mother or baby. Routine scanning of all pregnancies is now normal throughout the United States. These routine scans would be considered highly irresponsible if there was even a small risk to either mother or baby. In 3D/4D scanning, exactly the same type and intensity of ultrasound is used as with conventional 2D scanning. 3D/4D ultrasound scanning will be similar to a conventional scan in terms of sound exposure.
We highly recommend that clients discuss any concerns about 3D/4D ultrasound with their health provider. For more information on obstetrical ultrasounds please visit Obstetric Ultrasounds, the world renowned website and source on maternal-fetal ultrasound.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are necessary for our ultrasound services.
How long does the 3D/4D ultrasound take?
Depending on the package you choose, the 3D/4D ultrasound session will last between 15-30 minutes. If you purchase the Gold or Platinum package, plan on spending an hour with us as the second half hour will be used to choose the pictures of your baby you wish to print.
Will I always get a beautiful picture of my baby?
Usually, but not always. Sometimes if the baby is persistently looking face down, i.e. towards your spine, it may be difficult to see the face. If this happens, a repeat scan in one hour 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 office. We make every effort to exceed everyone's expectations. Every baby scans differently, depending on its gestational age, position, amount of fluid and mother's condition.
Can I bring my family and friends?
Yes, in fact we encourage our clients to invite family and friends to attend the session. This is a joyous and wonderful experience that can be shared with your loved ones.
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. However, we cannot 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 3D/4D ultrasound covered by insurance?
At this point, insurance does not cover the costs of our ultrasounds. Since this is an elective procedure and not intended to be a replacement for your doctor ordered ultrasounds, you will be required to pay the cost of this ultrasound as an out of the pocket expense. We accept cash, Visa, MasterCard and Discover cards.
What kind of ultrasound equipment do you use to perform the 3D/4D ultrasound?
We use the state-of-the-art GE Voluson 730 Expert to complete all ultrasound sessions. The GE Voluson 730 Expert has been seen in GE television commercials and many printed articles around the world. The machine is the finest 2D, & 3D/4D ultrasound machine available anywhere.
Is this safe for my baby and I?
Yes, 3D/4D ultrasounds are safe for both mother and fetus. With our state-of-the-art GE Voluson 730 Expert Ultrasound machine, we use the EXACT same ultrasound waves used in a traditional 2D scan at your doctor's office. The movements of your baby inside the womb can be seen with clarity that is impossible to achieve with 2D scanning. Both the machine and software simply process the information differently to provide us with spectacular 3D images and 4D video.
When is the best time for a 3D/4D ultrasound?
The best time to have this type of ultrasound done is between 28 and 32 weeks. It is possible to get these images at any time, but within this range the baby has well-developed facial features and still has enough amniotic fluid for you to get great images. Many expectant parents schedule an ultrasound around 26 weeks to see a cute little face and much of the body, then return around 33 weeks when the finest details of the face can be see. Also, many parents come in to get a guaranteed gender determination and to see their baby moving in 4D during the early stages (around 20 weeks). They then come back around 30 weeks to receive detailed images of the face (at a discounted rate). It is truly amazing to see how much they change! Please call immediately in order to schedule a prime appointment.
Please note: Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound with Pregnancy Journey Centers must already 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. Pregnancy Journey Centers requires direct written authorization from our healthcare provider prior to the performance of any ultrasound procedure. During the elective prenatal ultrasound session, we will be conducting a limited diagnostic scan to confirm heartbeat, the number of babies in the pregnancy, 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.
Pregnancy Journey is an elective imaging center. We require that all mothers have documentation of their medical, diagnostic ultrasound. We do not perform medical ultrasounds. However, if we are suspicious of a possible abnormality, your doctor will be notified.
