Imagine seeing your baby yawn, stretch or even smile at you – all while still in the womb. Advances in ultrasound imaging have led to the development of 3-D/4-D ultrasound technology. Used in conjunction with conventional 2-D scanning, a 3-D/4-D ultrasound can provide expectant parents with an extraordinary first look at their baby’s first movements in the womb. The experience has been described by many as “… the most incredible thing we have ever done. …” And while this technology generates a whole new level of excitement, it also generates some questions.

What Is 3-D/4-D Ultrasound?
A 3-D/4-D ultrasound is similar to a traditional 2-D ultrasound scan in that it uses the same ultrasonic sound waves to produce an image of your baby. With 2-D ultrasound, the sound waves are rendered to produce a cross section view, with which most people are familiar. You can generally see the outline of the baby’s head and hands, but you still can’t see your baby with any great detail.

With 3-D/4-D technology, however, the sound waves are rendered by the software in such a way that you can see your unborn baby with remarkable clarity. The fourth dimension is simply taking a three-dimensional still image and adding real time movement to it.
The result: parents seeing breath-taking live action images of their children in mom’s belly. Parents have been able to see their child’s chubby cheeks, lips, arms, cute little fingers and 10 adorable toes.

Is It Safe for Me and My Baby?
3-D/4-D ultrasound uses the same, safe ultrasonic waves as a 2-D scan performed in your doctor’s office. Multiple studies have shown that when used properly, there is absolutely no reason to infer that 3-D/4-D ultrasound is any more or less intrusive to a fetus than 2-D imaging. It simply processes the sound waves differently so you can see your baby in an entirely new way.

That said, it is important that you use a reputable 3-D/4-D ultrasound imaging center
when seeking this technology. Look for someone with experience, someone who adheres to a strict set of guidelines for ultrasound safety, and someone with whom you feel comfortable. Make sure the provider adheres to FDA-established guidelines for ultrasound imaging, and ask if they are certified by, or are members of, an ultrasound network or association.

What Can I Expect?
When you compare the typical 2-D imagery with the full movement provided by 3-D/4-D imaging, you will likely find that there are far more ooh’s and aah’s with the latter. 3-D/4-D ultrasound can certainly provide you with an amazing look at your unborn baby as it lives and breathes in the comfort of your womb, but know that your view will often be determined by your baby’s cooperation, the type of equipment used and the skill of the ultrasound technician. If you need to locate a reputable 3-D/4-D imaging center, ask friends and family members if they can recommend a facility. You can also search online referral sites such as www.4dbabies.com for locations near you.

Many 3-D/4-D ultrasound facilities offer a welcoming atmosphere that encourages family and friends to attend. Some more advanced facilities are even offering the option to share your experience with anyone in the world by streaming your session over the Internet.

In the end, your 3-D/4-D ultrasound experience should be one that you and your child can cherish for a lifetime.