Baby Ultrasounds in 3D and 4D
Fetal ultrasounds have gone high tech. Gone are the days ofcheesy black and white printouts of an undistinguished blob.Today's fetal ultrasounds come in stunning 3D with amazingdetail. Count all ten toes or compare baby's button nose to his...
...dad's. The new 4D ultrasound takes 3D to the next step showingclear, full motion images of the baby long before birth. This technology has spawned an industry that caters to expectantparents. Some of the benefits touted include better and earlierbonding with the baby. Companies claim that stronger pre-birthbonds result in better prenatal care and healthier babies.The 3D images are rendered by sophisticated software thatcompiles many 2D images together. The wow factor is upped evenmore when the technician actually rotates an image showing thebaby from several different views. Even more exciting is whenthe technician switches to 4D. The software works in thebackground to bring live motion three dimensional images to thescreen. This addition of motion is considered the fourthdimension. Expectant parents can watch their unborn child kickor suck their thumb in full motion 3D as it happens. Companies offer many different ultrasound packages includingcolor photos in varying sizes, gender determination, video orDVD of the ultrasound set to music and announcement cards. Somekeepsake ultrasound companies even allow additional guests toview the ultrasound in a separate theatre or studio as it'sbeing performed.For determining gender, an ultrasound can be done as early asseventeen weeks. However, between twenty eight and thirty twoweeks is the optimal time to schedule a 3D ultrasound. This isthe time when the fetus begins to look more baby like and beforeit moves downward into the birth canal in preparation for birth.When in this downright position, the face will likely be blockedfrom view. While diagnostic ultrasounds have been in use for over thirtyyears and are generally considered safe during pregnancy, theFDA does not endorse their use for entertainment purposes. TheFDA regulates the use of ultrasound and sets the standard forenergy levels used during fetal ultrasounds. The FDA isconcerned that commercial establishments using ultrasounds forkeepsake videos and images might use the equipment at higherenergy levels and for longer durations than considered safe forthe fetus. The FDA considers the use of ultrasound equipment forkeepsake imagery as an unapproved use of a medical device. Thoseusing a diagnostic prescription device without a doctor'sprescription could be in violation of local or state lawsregulating the use of prescription medical devices. The fetal photography industry is well aware of the FDA'sposition on the use of ultrasounds for non-medical uses and mostcompanies address this issue with their customers by answeringtheir questions and having them sign a waiver.Using a commercial ultrasound company can cost anywhere from $99to well over $300 depending on the package desired. Theseultrasounds do not take the place of the diagnostic ultrasoundthe OB/GYN performs in their office between seventeen and twentyweeks and elective ultrasounds are typically not covered bymedical insurance. For those considering splurging on a commercial 3D or 4Dultrasound, the best expert to talk to is their own OB/GYN. TheOB/GYN can answer any questions about ultrasound safety and mayeven have 3D abilities of their own. In addition they might havea list of reputable companies that meet their own highstandards.
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