What is Ultrasound Imaging?
Ultrasound imaging uses high-frequency sound waves to view soft tissues such as the baby’s internal organs and muscles. The waves then bounce off the tissue and return to the ultrasound machine at different frequencies.
During an ultrasound exam, a hand-held transducer is placed against the stomach. The transducer then sends out high frequency sound waves that reflect off of the baby’s body structures. The returning sound waves, or echoes, are displayed as an image on a monitor. Our ultrasound machine is a highly specialized computer that translates the returning sound waves into images for viewing.
The image is based on the frequency and strength of the sound signal and the time it takes to return from the patient to the transducer. Unlike with an x-ray, there is no ionizing radiation exposure with this test. Ultrasounds have been used for over 35 years and there have been no proven side effects from its proper use. We strictly adhere to the FDA’s standards.
What is the difference between 2D, 3D and 4D ultrasounds?
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 ultrasounds aren’t safe, and most moms-to-be gain reassurance from them.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, all of our 2D, 3D and 4D ultrasound sessions are by appointment only. We occasionally have same day appointments but you will have to call us (281.409.4699) to check availability. Feel free to call us Monday-Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 2pm.
When will I receive the pictures, CD and DVD?
Yes! All your keepsake items will be ready for you to take home when you leave. The DVD is a video recording of your entire ultrasound session. We record the entire session so you don’t miss anything your baby does and you can watch it again and again at home. Your 3D ultrasound pictures will be put on a CD for you to print, email, crop, etc. There is no need to bring in a CD or DVD, we provide everything for you.
Will you be able to tell if the baby is a girl or boy?
Yes, and 2D gender determination is included in all our packages (unless you tell us otherwise). We prefer to check gender after the baby reaches 17 weeks in 2D. Gender determination cannot be guaranteed since we must rely on the cooperation of the baby and several other factors outside our control. If baby does not cooperate we will simply reschedule you for another day.
When is the best time to have a 3d/4d ultrasound?
Many mothers like coming in early on around 17-25 weeks, when they can see the baby as a whole, and then again at 27-34 weeks to see a more detailed face and body. Between 27 and 30 weeks, your baby develops more fat and gets more full in the face. After 30 weeks of pregnancy your baby’s head MAY go deep down in your pelvis, so you may not be able to see her face.
The best time to have a 3D or 4D scan is when you are between 27- 30 weeks pregnant. Before 26 weeks your baby has very little fat under her skin, so the bones of her face will show through her skin. If the placenta is at the front of your uterus (anterior), it is best to wait until 28 weeks to get the best images of your baby.
After 34 weeks, it becomes more and more difficult to obtain good pictures since the baby is running out of room. However, all babies are different and we have been successful in obtaining great images all the way up to 35 weeks.
To get the best possible pictures…
Drink plenty of water 5-7 days before the appointment to ensure your amniotic fluid is clear. About a half hour before your 3D/4D ultrasound scan; try to drink a fruit juice, Coke, Dr pepper, or orange juice so that your baby will be awake during your session (unless you are told not to by your physician).
Doctors recommend maintaining a healthy fluid intake, especially while you are pregnant. This will help to ensure your amniotic fluid is clear as well as full. There are many things out of the sonographer’s control like the baby’s position, the mother’s build, amount of amniotic fluid, the baby’s hands and/or feet blocking the face, the baby’s sleep schedule, and placenta.
It’s natural that you’d like to see your baby’s face on the scan. But sometimes it’s not possible, depending on how she is lying.
If she’s lying facing outwards, with a good pool of amniotic fluid around her features, you should be able to see her face clearly. But if she’s facing your back, or if there’s not much fluid around her, you won’t see much. The same applies if you have a lot of belly fat.
The sonographer may ask you to walk a little bit, have a snack and juice, or to come back in a week, when your baby may have moved to a more suitable position. If it’s not possible to get good views of her face, you may be able to see her fingers and toes instead
Do I need to have a full bladder?
No, a full bladder is not necessary. But, being well-hydrated increases the transparency of the amniotic fluid, which greatly affects the clarity of the images. If you want to maximize the likelihood of getting great pictures drink plenty of water for 5 to 7 days before your appointment.
Do you accept insurance?
Sneak-A-Peek Imaging 3D 4D ultrasounds does not accept insurance because this is an elective ultrasound.
Are family and friends welcome to join?
Yes! We encourage you to bring your friends and family to share this special moment with you. Children are also welcome.
The thrilling experience of seeing your baby’s face for the first time will truly touch your heart! To enhance this truly unique parent-fetal bonding experience, our center is exclusively designed for the mom to be and her guests.