FAQ
FAQ Frequently Asked Questions
We're sure you've probably got questions, and we've got the answers!
1. What is an elective 2D/3D/4D/5D prenatal ultrasound?
2. Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor's office?
3. Is it safe? Are there any risks to me or my baby?
4. Do I need an appointment?
5. How long does the 2D/3D/4D/5D ultrasound take?
6. How far along should I be before I have a 3D/4D/5D ultrasound?
7. Will I always get a beautiful picture of my baby?
8. Can I bring my family and friends over to my home?
9. Are you able to tell the sex of the baby?
10. Are At First Sight 3D Ultrasound ultrasounds covered by Insurance?
11. How much does it cost?
12, Is there anything I can do to get the best ultrasound images of my baby?
What is an elective, 2D/3D/4D/5D prenatal ultrasound?
At First Sight 3D Ultrasound offer elective 2D, 3D, 4D, and 5D prenatal ultrasounds to expectant parents. Our top-of-the-line imaging systems provide realistic surface images that aid in bonding between parents and baby and allow for special moments with your whole family. A medical diagnostic ultrasound should have already been performed to assess the fetus's gestational age and to evaluate for fetal anomalies, as well as the basic components of fetal anatomy.
2D Ultrasound is the traditional ultrasound method most commonly used in the medical field. 2D produces a flatter, two-dimensional, black-and-white image of your baby.
3D Ultrasound is an advanced method that captures a three-dimensional image of your baby, often allowing the ability to see specific facial features like dimples and button noses.
4D Ultrasound creates a video effect, like a mini movie — you can watch your baby smile or yawn! This Ultrasound will show the baby in a three-dimensional image and will capture a baby in action.
5D Ultrasound is an exciting new technology that lets you see your baby in a realistic view in HD and shows the video in real-time/live.
Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor’s office?
No! Please take a look at our studio gallery here. Please note that your session with At First Sight 3D Ultrasound is an elective ultrasound that is not diagnostic. You must have already been receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care and have already undergone a medical diagnostic ultrasound ordered by your provider to confirm their due date, screen for fetal anomalies, and look for any other pregnancy-related issues. At First Sight 3D Ultrasound is strictly an elective, non-diagnostic ultrasound and should not be confused with; or used in place of a dedicated diagnostic ultrasound ordered by your OB provider. While At First Sight 3D Ultrasound may demonstrate and document the existence of a heartbeat, it is in no way diagnostic in nature. At First Sight 3D Ultrasound employs ARDMS registered sonographers; who at times may notice possible medical issues; you agree, with your signature on a waiver, to provide your OB provider's name and phone number; and agree that we may contact your OB provider, without your knowledge, with any concerns. We do this as a courtesy, and it is in no way diagnostic; it is up to your OB provider to consider the diagnostic aspects of our concerns.
Is it safe? Are there any risks to me, or my baby?
Extensive studies over 35 years have found that Ultrasound has not been shown to cause any harm to the mother or baby. Routine scanning of all pregnancies is now normal throughout the United States. In 3D/4D scanning, the same type and intensity of Ultrasound are used as with conventional 2D scanning. Both 3D and 4D ultrasounds use sound waves to view the body. A probe applied to the body sends sound waves, listens for the echo that comes back, and then produces an image. The sound exposure from a 4D ultrasound will be similar to that of a regular scan.
Please see this scholarly Journal of Perinatology article. Pooh, R. K., Maeda, K., Kurjak, A., Sen, C., Ebrashy, A., Adra, A., ... & Stanojevic, M. (2016). 3D/4D sonography–any safety problem. Journal of Perinatal Medicine, 44(2), 125-129.
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Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services. The same-day service is available. Call to schedule same-day appointments or schedule in advance on our services page.
How long does the 2D/3D/4D/5D ultrasound take?
Depending on your package, the ultrasound session will last between 45-90 minutes with us. We can guarantee the transfer of your favorite photos from the session.
How far along should I be before I have a 3D/4D/5D ultrasound?
If you plan on having only one 3D/4D/5D ultrasound session, we recommend having the ultrasound performed between the 28th and 32nd weeks of the pregnancy. We can sometimes get even more beautiful pictures after 32 weeks, but we are more likely to have interference from low amniotic fluid, placental placement, and the baby's position. Many mothers obtain more than one ultrasound and have images to enjoy from their second and third trimesters.
Will I always get a beautiful picture of my baby?
In most cases, yes. Please follow the recommendations sent to your email when you booked the appointment for the best possible images. Unlike most centers, our Sonographers have a combined experience of 20+ years. Consequently, if your baby cooperates, and sometimes with some movement of mom, we are typically able to get the images you desire. However, every once in a while, a baby is in the wrong position, i.e., if the baby is looking face down, i.e., towards your spine, it may be difficult to see the baby’s face. Other factors influencing the images are gestational age, amount of amniotic fluid, and maternal obesity.
Can I bring my family and friends?
Yes. We encourage our clients to invite family and friends to attend the elective 3D/ 4D ultrasound session. It is a joyous and wonderful experience you can share with your family and loved ones. In addition, we have a tummy cover for mom to keep her body private from those she invites to view her baby's images.
Are you able to tell the sex of the baby?
Yes, in most cases, we can indicate 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 affect the ability to determine sex.
Are At First Sight 3D Ultrasound ultrasounds covered by Insurance?
At this point, 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.
Is there anything I can do to get the best ultrasound images of my baby?
Yes, there is! One of the most memorable moments of your prenatal journey will be seeing your baby in the detail that At First Sight 3D Ultrasound offers. To help acquire the best images of your baby, we ask that you make sure to book your 3D appointments between 28-32 weeks. After 32 weeks, it is still possible to get beautiful 3D pictures. However, our guarantee only applies to gestations between 28-32 weeks. Regardless of whether you booked a 2D or 3D appointment, we ask that at least 5 days before your ultrasound, you drink 48-64 ounces of water daily. This simple task is essential in determining the quality of the pictures you will receive.
Drinking water improves the quality and clarity of the fluid surrounding your baby and gives us a “window” to see your baby. When mom is well hydrated, the “window” is more precise. It is important to note that water is the best option, not soda or other fluids, as the water clarity of the fluid surrounding your baby gives us the most beautiful images. However, you do not need a full bladder for our scans. We ask you to empty your bladder before your scan. About an hour before your scan, we ask that you drink a small amount of fruit juice to help facilitate your baby’s movement.
Should you have questions not answered below, please call us at (917) 444-7418 or text us. Please try to book your session early. We do not charge for BOOKING earlier to get the date and time you want..