Frequently Asked Questions

What is ultrasound imaging?  3D and 4D Ultrasound technology uses high frequency sound waves.  The waves bounce off tissue and return to the ultrasound machine at different frequencies, depending on the density of the tissue.  Our ultrasound machine is a highly specialized computer that translates the returning sound waves into images for viewing on its computer monitor.

  • 2D Ultrasounds – The traditional ultrasound photo (black and white). 

  • 3D Ultrasounds – takes several two-dimensional images using transabdominal ultrasound and puts them together to make a three-dimensional image

  • 4D Ultrasounds – creates three-dimensional pictures that show movement.

  • 5D Ultrasounds – Shows even more detail with a richer color.

  • Expectation Ultrasound can provide a clear window in an unborn baby’s world.  Schedule your ultrasound session today!  Don’t miss out on this precious moment!

What is an elective prenatal ultrasound?  We offer elective 2D, 3D & 4D prenatal ultrasounds to provide a proactive, positive bonding experience for the mother, father and family members with the unborn baby. Realistic surface images provide a connection between the parents and baby that can be beneficial to the whole family. 

Do I need to schedule an appointment?  Yes, we require you to call and schedule an appointment.  We require a 20% deposit the day of booking.

May I bring family and friends to my appointment?  Yes

Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor’s office?  ABSOLUTELY NOT –  Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound must already be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care and have already undergone a medical, diagnostic ultrasound ordered by the provider to confirm due date, screen for fetal abnormalities, and to look for any other pregnancy related issues.

How long does the 3D ultrasound take?  Depending on the package you choose, the 3D ultrasound session will last between 15 and 30 minutes.

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 the session.  Certain factors such as body tissue content, developmental state affect the ability to determine sex.

Is it safe? Are there any risks to me, or my baby?  Extensive studies conducted over 35 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. These routine scans would be considered highly irresponsible if there were even a small risk to mother or baby. 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. 3D ultrasound will be similar to a conventional scan in terms of sound exposure.

Will I always get a beautiful picture of my baby?  Usually, but not always. Sometimes if the baby is looking face down, i.e. towards your spine, it may be difficult to see the baby’s face. Other factors that can influence the images are gestational age, amount of amniotic fluid, and maternal obesity. We will be happy to discuss with you our policies and your options should your scan be difficult to obtain.

Is the 3D ultrasound 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. We accept cash and all major credit cards as forms of payment. No personal checks.

What kind of ultrasound equipment do you use to perform the 3D/4D ultrasounds?  We use the state-of-the-art GE Voluson to complete all ultrasound sessions. The GE Voluson has been seen in GE television commercials and many printed articles from around the world. This machine is the finest 2D, 3D,4D and 5D ultrasound machine available anywhere. Please note, many organizations claim to use “state-of-the-art” equipment, when in fact they use older or inferior technology.

When is the best time to schedule for an ultrasound?  Gender Reveal with 2D is 15 weeks, 3D/4D/5D is 28-34 weeks

How should I prepare for my appointment? Drink plenty of fluids, Wear loose clothing, Eat before your appointment, Have a glass of juice