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. A routine ultrasound examination
should have already been performed to assess the gestational age of the
fetus, and to evaluate for fetal abnormalities 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 our facility must already be receiving
prenatal care, and have already undergone a diagnostic ultrasound as
ordered by healthcare provider to confirm their due date, screen for
fetal abnormalities, 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.
Is it safe? Are there any risks to
me, or my 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 Ultrasounds both utilize sound waves to look inside
the body. A probe placed on the body emits sound waves into the body,
listens for the return echo and generates an image. 3D/4D ultrasounds
are similar to conventional 2D scans in terms of exposure.
What can I do to improve the quality
of my ultrasound?
DRINK PLENTY OF WATER! If you don't
normally
drink water daily you should consider doing so beginning at least 3
days before your scheduled appointment. Hydration can significantly
improve the clarity of an ultrasound.
What’s the best time in the
pregnancy for an ultrasound?
We can perform an ultrasound at any
time
during the pregnancy, but the best 3D/4D imaging results are generally
acquired between 20 and 32 weeks. We recommend 24 to 32 weeks, if at
all possible. If the scan is done to late in the pregnancy, the baby
gets very crowded and it is difficult to view the face.
What kinds of baby activity will I
see?
It depends on the baby. Some babies
sleep
right through the ultrasound and move very little. Others show off
– touching their faces, sucking their thumb, swallowing
amniotic
fluid, waving arms and legs and more.
Can you tell the gender of the baby?
We will be happy to check gender, and
this
service is included in all of our packages. We prefer to check gender
after the baby reaches 20 weeks. Gender determination cannot be
guaranteed, however, since we must rely on the cooperation of the baby
and several other factors outside our control. But, if you are at least
20 weeks along and we can't tell the baby's gender, we will bring you
back for free!
Do I need to have a full bladder for
the appointment?
No, you do not have to have a full
bladder
during the session, but the more hydrated your body is, the more
transparent the amniotic fluid and the clearer the pictures. Being well
hydrated can greatly improve the clarity of the 3D/4D pictures.
Should I drink caffeine so the baby
will be active?
No, we will get better 3D/4D images if
the baby is not continually active during the session.
Will my insurance pay for my
appointment?
No, “Caught In The
Moment”
performs elective ultrasounds which are not based on medical necessity
and therefore are not covered by insurance.
Can I bring someone with me?
Absolutely.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes. See the Contact
Us page for addresses, phone numbers and email.
