Mothers-to-be usually get a 2D ultrasound starting around 8 weeks, or when Mom finds out she is expecting. 2D ultrasounds are the traditional black & white ultrasounds and the pictures show the skeletal structure of the baby. You will also see the baby moving with 2D technology. This is the type of ultrasound that is used for your diagnostic ultrasound. It is still the very best technology for getting an accurate read of your baby’s gender, obtaining measurements, and ensuring that the baby is developing as expected.

3D ultrasounds are still pictures of your baby in three dimensions.

These images look like pictures of your baby rather than pictures of your baby’s skeleton. You can see the fullness of the baby’s face, the shape of the nose and the contours of the lips. The color is computer generated to enhance and make the pictures more appealing.

4D imaging is moving 3D images of your baby, with time being the fourth dimension. Giving you a video of your baby moving in real time motion.

Both 3D and 4D scans are just as safe as a 2D scan, because the image is made up of sections of two-dimensional images converted into a picture. There’s no evidence to suggest that scans aren’t safe, and most moms-to-be gain reassurance from them.