Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions Answered

The questions listed below are the most frequently asked questions about our elective prenatal ultrasound packages. Should you have any questions that are not answered below, please feel free to call or contact us.

 

Q: What is an elective prenatal ultrasound?

We offer elective prenatal ultrasounds to provide a positive bonding experience for the mother, father, family members and friends with the unborn baby. We feel that realistic surface images provide a connection between the parents and baby that can be beneficial and enjoyable to the entire family.

 

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Q: Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor’s office?

ABSOLUTELY NOT! Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound 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, and the position of the baby. Please note, at no time is this exam to be used in place of a complete diagnostic ultrasound with your medical provider

 

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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/HD scanning, the same type and intensity of ultrasound is used as with conventional 2D scanning. 3D/4D/HD 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.

 

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Q: What does the term 4D mean?

The term 4D in an ultrasound simply means you will be able to see the baby’s movements in real-time during your ultrasound. All of our ultrasounds are in 4D.

 

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Q: Do I need an appointment?

Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services.

 

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Q: How far along should I be before I have a 4D ultrasound?

If you plan on having only one 3D ultrasound, we would recommend having the examination performed between the 26th and 34th week of the pregnancy. However, images can typically be obtained from 13-38 weeks. Many mothers obtain more than one ultrasound and have images to enjoy from their second and third trimesters. Early ultrasounds, 13-26 weeks will be more about visualizing fetal movement and seeing more of baby’s body, while 26 weeks and up, with more fat stores, it is generally better for visualizing facial features. You can come in as early as 13 weeks for gender determination (16-17 weeks for fuller figured mothers).

 

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Q: Will I always get a beautiful image of my baby?

Usually, but not always. Sometimes if the baby is persistently looking face down, i.e. towards your spine it may be difficult to see the baby’s face. If this happens, a repeat scan will usually succeed because the baby has turned to a more favorable position. We make no promises that the images will be similar to those you might have seen elsewhere or even from our studio, or that we can always meet everyone’s expectations. Every baby scans differently, depending on its gestational age, position, amount of fluid, and mother’s condition. We promise to make every effort to obtain the best possible images of whatever parts of the baby that can be seen. We do not offer refunds on any of our services but do offer a free second session (weekdays only) if we are not able to obtain at least a partial view of baby’s facial features. While we do our best, we cannot guarantee full face images.

Ultrasound works best when the sound waves have plenty of fluid to travel through. A well hydrated system of the mother will help to optimize the images. This is probably the most important factor. Increased body weight of the mother can often affect the quality because sound does not travel as easily through tissue as it does fluid. Full figured mothers should consider having their ultrasound session around 31-35 weeks.

 

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Q: Can I bring my family and friends?

Absolutely, this is a family event. The more the merrier! We have a large viewing room and a big screen TV. We can easily accommodate up to 10 and can expand that if needed. Just let us know how many will be joining you and we will be more than happy to make everyone feel comfortable.

 

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Q: Do you charge extra for twins?

We do not charge for two sessions, however, we do add a small fee of $20 on the Gender Determination Package and a $30 fee on the Platinum and Platinum Plus packages. We do recommend you come in between 24-28 weeks for twins for 3d/4d/HD packages. We still offer twin gender determination starting at 13 weeks. For Mulit visit package add the twin fee for each visit.

 

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Q: Are you able to tell the sex of the baby?

Yes, in most cases we can provide an indication of the sex of the baby. We can’t however guarantee that the baby will cooperate during your session. Certain factors such as body tissue content, developmental stage and fetal position all affect the ability to determine sex.

 

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Q: Is the 4D ultrasound covered by Insurance?

This is an elective procedure so they do not cover it. We do accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover and cash. We cannot accept personal checks.

 

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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 give us a call.

 

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Q: What is your cancellation policy?

Please try to allow us at least 48 hours notice for cancellations. Any cancellation less than 24 hours prior to the appointment may be subject to a $50 late cancellation fee. Any no show will be subject to a $50 no show fee.

 

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