F.A.Q

2D ultrasound produces a simple black and white 2 dimensional image of your baby. This is produced by passing harmless, high frequency sound waves from the little probe into the womb. As the sound passes through the different tissue densities, it is reflected back to the probe and the image is created – in 2 dimensions.

3D ultrasound simply means adding a third dimension to the image, allowing you to see the detailed features of your baby's face. We use a different shaped probe which simply allows the sound to be transmitted in more directions than the standard 2D probe. This enables more information to be reflected back to the probe which then creates the image – in 3 dimensions.

4D ultrasound is the addition of a fourth dimension, which is time adding realtime, to the 3 dimensional image. This technique allows you to see your baby moving in a way you never thought possible. See your baby yawn, suck on their little fingers, stroke their noses, and exhibit many of the behaviour patterns of the newborn creating the ultimate bonding experience.

Since the introduction of ultrasound into obstetric care 30 years ago, research has been undertaken in hundreds of clinical studies. There has been no evidence to suggest any risk to mother and baby. Routine scanning with ultrasound has been part of normal procedure in all pregnancies for many years. The ultrasound equipment used to produce the 3D and 4D scans uses exactly the same type and intensity as the more conventional 2D scanning equipment used in hospitals. We adhere to strict guidelines set out by the British Medical Ultrasound Society and all the scans are delivered in line with best practice.

Our 2D, 3D and 4D scans are primarily undertaken to enhance parental bonding and maternal reassurance before birth. The scans offered at BabyFace 4D are not part of your routine antenatal care and should be considered as additional scans only. It is vital to the health and well being of both yourself and your unborn baby that you attend all your routine hospital antenatal appointments. Our sonographers have many years experience in diagnostic obstetric ultrasound. If the sonographer becomes suspicious that there may be an abnormality, the findings will be explained as fully as possible. With your consent the sonographer will make arrangements to speak directly with your GP or health care professional responsible for your antenatal care.

Normally between 24 and 32 weeks is the optimal time for a 3D / 4D scan. In the case of a twin pregnancy, - double trouble! around 25 weeks is more suitable, because leaving it later will make a clear image of both babies more difficult as they grow and have less space!

It is important that you bring your hospital / antenatal notes with you to the appointment. We may need contact details of your midwife / GP or obstetrician in charge of your antenatal care should the need arise.

In most cases yes. Unfortunately, however, occasionally,it may not be possible as babies don't always behave in the way we want them to. Sometimes, the baby may be facing the wrong way making it difficult for us to see baby's face. If this happens we may ask that you take a gentle walk outside for a while and hope that baby moves. If we are still unable to obtain a satisfactory result after a second attempt on the day, then we will offer a further appointment at your convenience, free of charge. Other factors can affect image quality on the day. The position of the placenta, the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby, hands across the face and the amount of maternal body tissue between the ultrasound probe and the baby. These factors are unpredictable on the day.

All your products will be available to take away on the day. If however, we experience any technical difficulties, etc we will send them out in the post as soon as possible

Empty your bladder 1 hour before your scan, then drink a sugary drink like orange or blackcurrant. Eat a piece of fruit, yoghurt or even a chocolate bar! All these things can improve the chances of a better quality picture and DVD.

The AIUM (American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine) has examined the increasing demand from patients for ultrasound examinations for bonding and reassurance purposes. It recommends that only registered qualified professionals with specialist training in fetal ultrasound perform all fetal ultra sound scans. This recommendation is also endorsed by the BMUS (British Medical Ultrasound Society). For more information please see: www.aium.org & www.bmus.org