Baby Bonding Frequently Asked Questions

What is 3D/4D scanning?

A 3 dimensional view of the fetal surface, particularly the face gives parents a more realistic view of their baby's appearance and enhances parental bonding. The 4th dimension is time, so that a moving 3D image is presented.

What is the purpose of this scan?

The scan is performed for maternal and parental bonding and reassurance.

Is 3D/4D ultrasound scanning safe?

Extensive studies over a 40 year period have not shown any detrimental effects associated with the use of ultrasound in obstetric practice.

When is the best time to have the 3D/4D scan?

The scan will normally be performed between 22 and 32 weeks as this is the best time for 3D assessment with enough liquor and reasonable (not too much) fetal movement, 27-29 weeks optimum time. If earlier than 22 weeks there is often too much fetal movement to allow good images. Good images may be achieved at 34 weeks but liquor is naturally diminishing and fetal position becomes more fixed.

Pre-requisites for the scan:

The mother must have had an anomaly scan to check for fetal abnormalities (normally performed between 19-21 weeks) prior to the 3D/4D bonding and reassurance scan as anomaly scanning is not the main focus of this scan.

Who will perform my scan?

A sonographer with extensive obstetric experience will perform your 3D/4D scan.

What determines the quality of my 3D/4D images?

The ability to obtain a good 3D/4D picture is dependent on maternal size, the amount of liquor (amniotic fluid) around the fetus and the fetal position . As with 2D ultrasound the higher the maternal body mass index (BMI) the more unclear or 'fuzzier' the images will be. The fetal surfaces such as the face and hands and feet need to be surrounded by reasonably large pools of liquor for good visualisation and the amount of liquor varies considerably at a given gestational age in women with normal pregnancies. The clarity of the scan is also dependant on what is lying in front of the baby's face (e.g. hands, feet, placenta, cord). The above are all conditions unique to each mother and fetus so that one mother’s pictures can look quite different to another's.

Can you tell me the sex of the baby?

Gender determination is available during the scan if requested if the fetus is in an appropriate position. We cannot guarantee a 100% accuracy for diagnosing the fetal sex. As far as we are aware our accuracy is within the national average of 95-98. (Not available with Silver Package)

What if I do not wish to know the sex?

If the parents do not wish to know the sex of the scan we can concentrate on the head and upper body of the baby only.

Do I need a referral from my doctor?

Mothers do not require a referral from their doctor for their 3D/4D scan.

Abnormal obstetric appearances:

This scan is not performed as a check for fetal abnormalities but in some instances an abnormal appearance may be noted. In the event that the sonographer detects a previously unknown abnormal appearance, a report of the findings will be made and the mother referred to a Consultant Obstetrician at the King’s Oak Hospital. If the mother prefers to consult her own obstetrician, a copy of the report will be given to her and a copy sent/faxed to the appropriate Consultant Obstetrician.

Will it cost extra for twins/triplets?

There is no extra charge for multiple pregnancies. However, because of fetal lie it may not always be possible to see both/all the babies well. It is best to book for a 3D/4D scan between 22-26 weeks if you have a multiple pregnancy. Please note that it is not always possible to see both/all of the babies on the same image.