Frequently Asked Questions
Learning More About 3D Ultrasound / 4D Ultrasound
The questions listed below are the most frequently asked questions about our limited diagnostic prenatal ultrasound packages. Please review and feel free to Contact Us if you have any further questions.
Q: 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.
We make no claims that 3-D as used in this examination is performed to better assess the baby for abnormalities. A routine ultrasound examination must have already been performed to assess the gestational age of the fetus and to evaluate for fetal anomalies as well as the basic components of fetal anatomy recommended for screening.
Q: Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor’s office?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound with Early View MUST 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.
The issues that we are evaluating in the elective prenatal ultrasound session include a limited diagnostic scan to confirm heartbeat, the number of babies in the pregnancy, the 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.
Q: Is it safe? Are there any risks to me, or my baby?
Extensive studies over 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 United States. In 3D/4D scanning exactly the same type and intensity of ultrasound is used as with conventional 2D scanning. 3D and 4D Ultrasound both utilize sound waves to look inside the body. The technology is similar to radar. A probe placed on the body emits sound waves into the body, listens for the return echo and generates an image. 4D ultrasound will be similar to a conventional scan in terms of exposure.
Q: Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services.
Q: How long does the 3D and 4D ultrasound take?
Depending on the package you choose, the 4D ultrasound session will last between 20 and 30 minutes. Overall, it will be about one hour as we have to have some time to print and edit the pictures.
Q: How far along should I be before I have a 4D ultrasound?
If you plan on having only one 4D ultrasound examination, we would recommend having the examination performed between the 24th and 32th week of the pregnancy. However, excellent images of your baby can be obtained anytime after about 22 weeks of pregnancy. Many mothers obtain more than one 4D ultrasound and have images to enjoy from their second and third trimesters.
Q: Will I always get a beautiful image of my baby?
Unfortunately there are no guarantees. There are things that are beyond our control. The babies position, the amount of amniotic fluid, and the mothers body type. We have an experienced sonographer who is innovative and this rarely becomes a problem. If it does happen we encourage you to come back another day. We want everyone to be totally satisfied.
Q: Will I have to pay if I am not satisfied with the results?
Our best customer is a happy one. We get more business from word of mouth than anything else. In the rare event the baby is in a position that does not allow for satisfactory pictures we’ll make arrangements to have you try again.
Q: Can I bring my family and friends?
Absolutely, this is a family event. The more the merrier. We do have somewhat limited space so if you are going to bring friends and/or family, please call ahead so that we can make sure we can accommodate everyone.
Q: Are you able to tell the sex of the baby?
We will do all that we can to determine the gender of your baby during your session. However; not all babies are ready to cooperate during a session. Certain factors such as the mom’s body tissue content, hydration level, developmental stage of the baby and position of the baby can affect the ability to determine gender. It is our policy, as long as your are the proper week of pregnancy for gender determination, or further, we will bring you back for a complimentary visit if we are unable to determine gender at your first appointment.
Q: How soon can I come in for early gender determination?
Each sonographer has a comfort level with gender determination at certain stages of pregnancy. Our Longview office offers gender determination at 14 weeks and further. If for some reason we are unable to determine gender at that time, we will bring you back for a complimentary appointment. For best results, heavy hydration (2-3 liters per day) for a minimum of three days prior to your appointment and having a snack just before your appointment is recommended.
Q: Is the 4D ultrasound covered by Insurance?
This is an elective procedure so they do not cover it. We do accept Mastercard, Visa, and cash. We cannot accept personal checks.
Q: How much does it cost?
We have packages to fit just about anyone’s budget. We continuously strive to provide the highest quality products and packages at the most affordable costs. We always have special discounts so continue to visit our website or call us for details on our latest discounts at Longview (903) 663-6800.
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Call Longview (903) 663-6800 today to schedule your appointment, get directions to our facility, or to ask any questions you have about 3D ultrasound and 4D ultrasound.
