Is it safe? Are there any risks to me, or my baby?
Extensive studies over 35 years have found that ultrasound has not been shown to cause any maternal or fetal harm. Routine diagnostic scanning of all pregnancies is now a normal procedure. 3D/4D scans use EXACTLY the same type and intensity of ultrasonic waves as in conventional 2D scan.
The combination of increased data gathering (listening) by the transducer and software interpretation after data acquisition creates these amazing 3D 4D images and not a higher intensity, frequency or ‘power' output. Our guidelines dictate the systems to be used in the Obstetric Application Mode. This mode is capped by the manufacturer (GE) below the FDA limits (94 milliwatts/cm2) for exposure. In fact, the system takes simultaneous 2D scans in saggital, coronal and transverse planes and the software renders the 3D 4D images. It's that simple!
We provide forms to mothers and physicians/midwives with clear written statements of the services offered at First View Ultrasound. We highly recommend that parents discuss with their doctor about any safety concern on 3D 4D ultrasound.
Published studies on ultrasounds can be reviewed below on Dr. Joseph Woo's world renowned website, a highly respected source of information on maternal-fetal medicine.
www.ob-ultrasound.net
www.ob-ultrasound.net/studies.html
What kind of ultrasound equipment do you use to perform the 3D 4D ultrasound?
We use the state of the art GE Voluson 730 PRO to complete all Ultrasound examinations. The GE Voluson 730 PRO has been seen in GE television commercials and many printed articles from around the world. This machine is the best 2D, 3D and 4D Ultrasound machine available. Please note, many organizations claim to use "state-of-the-art" equipment, when in fact they use older or inferior technology. Only the GE Voluson 730 generates 3D images with amazing clarity and gives you the same clarity with 4D imagery of your baby in motion. Our sonogram equipment allows you to see your baby in live motion video unlike any other on the market today.
Do I need an appointment for 3D sonogram?
Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services. For weekend and evening appointments, we encourage you to schedule well in advance.
How long does the 3D 4D prenatal ultrasound session take?
Depending on the package you choose, the session will last between 10 and 30 minutes. However, we require 15 minutes for registration/eligibility and 15 minutes after the scan for printing pictures and formatting the DVD/CD.
How far along should I be before I have a 4D sonogram?
If you plan on having only one session, we recommend having the exam performed between 24 and 34 weeks. However, excellent images can be obtained from 18 to 38 weeks. Many mothers opt for our 2-visit Platinum package to see the baby's growth from the second to the third trimester. For twins, we recommend scans before 30 weeks.
Will I always get beautiful 3D pregnancy pictures?
In most cases you will. Sometimes if the baby's position is face down, i.e., towards your spine, it may be difficult to see the baby's face. In this case, a complimentary rescan will be scheduled . However, the scan images may not be similar to those you saw elsewhere or even from our center. Every baby scans differently, depending on the gestational age, position, amount of fluid, placental location and mother's body habitus. However, we promise to make every effort to obtain the best images.
Can I bring family and friends to my ultrasound session?
Yes. In fact, we encourage you to invite family (including siblings) and friends to attend. This is a wonderful and educational experience that will linger in your memories for a lifetime.
For those family members and friends who can't accompany you to your ultrasound, we now offer our exciting new Sonostream LIVE technology whereby they can watch your ultrasound session live, in real-time over the internet from the comfort of their home or office! Click here to learn more about Sonostream LIVE!
Can you determine the gender during 4D baby ultrasound?
Yes, in almost all cases we provide confirmation of your baby's gender (only if requested). However, if the baby is uncooperative during the session and we are unable to confirm gender ID, we schedule a complimentary repeat scan for a later date.
Does Insurance cover the 3D/4D pregnancy ultrasound procedure?
At this point, insurance does not cover this as it's an elective procedure and is not intended to be a replacement for your physician ordered ultrasound. You will need to pay this as an out of pocket expense. We accept cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard and debit cards. Checks will be verified with your CA state driver's license and will be pre-approved.
How much does it cost to receive the 4D pregnancy pictures?
We have various packages to fit anyone's budget. Please refer to the Pricing section for our packages. We highly recommend that you call us for price comparison as on an ongoing basis, we have seasonal discount specials.
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