Frequently Asked Questions
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 call us at 410.224.BABY or drop us an e-mail at info@babytobeimages.com
Q: What is an elective prenatal ultrasound?
We offer elective 2D, 3D & 4D prenatal ultrasounds to provide a positive bonding experience for the mother, father and family members with the unborn baby. We feel that realistic surface images provide a connection between the parents and baby that can be beneficial to the whole family. We make no claims that 3-D as used in this examination is performed to better assess the baby for abnormalities. A routine ultrasound examination must have already been performed to assess the gestational age of the fetus and to evaluate for fetal anomalies as well as the basic components of fetal anatomy recommended for screening.
Q: Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor's office?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound with Prenatal Impressions MUST provide 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, the number of babies in the pregnancy, the position of the baby, and the placental location. Please note, at no time is this exam to be used in place of a complete diagnostic ultrasound.
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 scanning exactly the same type and intensity of ultrasound is used as with conventional 2D scanning. 3D and 4D 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.
Q: Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services. Please call to schedule an appointment soon as all prime weekend time slots fill fast.
Q: How long does the 3D and 4D ultrasound take?
Depending on the package you choose, the 4D ultrasound session will last a max of 25 minutes. Expect to be in our office a little longer, sometimes babies are a little shy and we`ll take some extra time to make them feel comfortable to show their faces. So in cases like this, we sometimes run a little behind. When your session is complete, give us about 5-10 minutes to finalize your chosen material.
Q: What is the best time to come in?
If you plan on having only one 4D ultrasound examination, we would recommend having the examination performed between the 28th and 35th week of the pregnancy. However, excellent images of your baby can be obtained anytime after about 25 weeks of pregnancy. Many mothers obtain more than one 4D ultrasound and have images to enjoy from their second and third trimesters. Remember, expectant mothers that are heavy or full-figured should consider scheduling their 4D ultrasound between 31 and 35 weeks of pregnancy, as the ultrasound tends to be clearer and the results more desirable.
Q: Will I always get a beautiful image of my baby?
Most of the time, 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. We make no promises that the images will be similar to those you might have seen elsewhere or even from our facility, 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. This is a non-refundable service under any circumstance. All payments are considered final unless a refund may be necessary due an unexpected error on our part. All sales are final.
Q: Can I bring my family and friends?
Yes. In fact, we encourage our Moms and Dads to be to invite family and friends to attend the elective 4D ultrasound session. This is a joyous and wonderful experience, one that can be shared with your family and loved ones. (Limit of 8 guests please; children must be supervised!)
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.
Q: Is the 4D ultrasound covered by Insurance?
Currently, insurance does not cover the costs of our ultrasounds. Since this is an elective procedure and is not intended to be a replacement for your doctor ordered ultrasound, you will need to pay the cost of this ultrasound as an out of pocket expense. We accept cash, Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. We no longer accept personal checks. New update, flexible spending accounts now accepts our service.
Q: What kind of ultrasound equipment do you use to perform the 4D ultrasounds?
We use the state of the art GE Voluson 730 to complete all ultrasound examinations. The GE Voluson 730 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.
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 discount so please continue to visit our website or call us for details on our latest discounts at 410.224.BABY. Click here to see our list of packages and additional details. Call 410.224.BABY today for your appointment or to get driving directions to our facility!