FAQ’s
Learning More About 3D Ultrasound / 4D Ultrasound / 4D HDlilve / 5D Ultrasound
The questions listed below are the most frequently asked questions about our ultrasound packages. Please review and feel free to contact us if you have any further questions.
Q: What happens at a 3D/4D/5D ultrasound session?
Your 4D Baby scanning sessions are half an hour, please arrive a few minutes prior to your appointment to fill in a consent form. Please wear comfortable clothes, preferably a top and trousers. Family and friends welcome to share this exciting time with you! You lie down on a table, lower the trousers slightly and lift up your top exposing your preggy belly. Paper towel is added to ensure your clothes aren't too sticky when you leave. A really warm water-based gel is spread over the abdomen, we will pretend it is very good for the skin, good moisturising cream. There is a flat screen on the wall for everyone to view, don't forget the popcorn and slush puppy!
Then the scanning begins…
We take measurements of baby, tell you how much baby is weighing (if you choose the package), listen to the heart beating and give you a heart rate. If you dislike surprises, we can determine or confirm the gender.
If you would like to keep the gender a surprise, please inform us, so that we don't spoil it for you.
JPEG and video clips images are stored onto a DVD or USB flash drive so that you can email, download or even brag at work. It takes a few minutes for the discs to finalize, and then they are yours.
Q: Is 4D/5D ultrasound Scanning safe?
Since its introduction 40 years ago there has been no evidence to suggest that Ultrasound scanning presents any risk to the mother and baby. 4D scans use sound waves above the range of normal human hearing, not harmful at all! 4D & 4D HDlive ultrasound will be similar to a conventional scan in terms of exposure.
Q: What is the difference between 2D/3D and 4D/5D ultrasound scan?
A 2D ultrasound is the most commonly used method which provides a flat, two-dimensional image of your baby.
A 3D ultrasound is a more advanced method as it shows a three-dimensional image of your baby.
Therefore, a 4D ultrasound is a three-dimensional image with the added dimension of time; so you see a live, moving image of your baby.
Q: Who will perform my 3D/4D/5D ultrasound?
A Sonographer with extensive Obstetric experience will carry out your 4D scan.
Q: Do I need a referral from my doctor?
You do not require a referral from your doctor for our 4D/5D baby scans.
Q: How much time should I allow for the 4D/%D ultrasound?
You should arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment for your 4D/5D ultrasound scan to fill out registration forms etc.
The appointment length is 20 to 30 minutes depending on which package you choose. This is to allow for scanning and preparation of DVD and CD. Usually the scanning time will range from 10-30 minutes to allow for a 5, 10 or 15 minute recording. As your baby may not be in an ideal position on arrival the length of appointment will allow time for the baby to change position. You will also have time to move or walk around in order to get the best views of the baby.
Q: When is the best time to have a 4D/5D ultrasound?
For optimal 4D scan images the best time to arrange a visit is between 24 and 35 weeks. Many mothers obtain more than one 4D ultrasound and have images to enjoy from their second and third trimesters.
Q: Do we scan everyone?
Our 4D ultrasound services are intended for low risk pregnancies. If you have a history of lower abdominal pain or bleeding you should consult your doctor or nearest emergency facility.
Q: When is the best time to carry out the 4D/5D ultrasound on twins?
Women with twins wishing to attend for a 4D baby scan should visit at around 25 weeks, as twins have less space. Please note with the 4D scanning it is usually not possible to see both babies in the same image area.
Q: What determines the quality of my 4D/5D ultrasound?
The quality of your 3D scan images and 4D/5D scan movie is determined by the baby's position, amount of amniotic fluid around the baby (the more the better) and the amount of tissue (skin, fat and muscle) between the probe and the baby.
The most important factor in 4D/5D baby scanning is the baby’s position. If the baby is lying in a difficult position a satisfactory 4D/5D ultrasound scan may be difficult.
Q: How many guest can I bring?
We are able to accommodate up to 5 members of your family and friends when you attend your 4D baby scan appointment. We would ask that small children and babies be accompanied by at least one adult otherwise you may lose valuable scanning time.
Q: Do I need to have a full bladder?
It is not necessary to have a full bladder when you attend your 4D scanning appointment unless you are in the very early stages of your pregnancy.
Q: What package do you have available and what is the cost?
Please visit our Packages page for details of available packages and costs.
Q: How do I pay?
Payment for 4D/5D baby scans can be made by cash or credit/debit cards. Checks are not accepted
Q: Should I still attend my Doctor or Hospital scans?
Yes. Our 4D/5D ultrasound scans should be regarded as additional scans and are not part of your routine antenatal care. It is important that you attend all your hospital appointments.
Q: Can an 3D/4D/5D ultrasound detect everything?
Ultrasound does have its limitations.
Q: How long before I get my images?
All your photos and videos will be available to take away on the day.