What is a 3D/4D Ultrasound?

3D fetal Ultrasounds allows one to capture images in 3  dimensional format which include width, height and depth. 3D Ultrasound captures images in much the same way as 3D movies. 4D fetal Ultrasounds are similar to 3D Ultrasounds, with the difference associated with time: 4D allows a 3 dimensional picture in real time, rather than delayed, due to the lag associated with the computer constructed image, as in classic 3 dimensional ultrasound.

 

When would be the best time for my 3D/4D Ultrasound?

Recommended time for Gender Determination is
between 17 – 18 weeks. However all babies development is different and some have been
determined as early as 16 weeks.

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Can baby’s Gender be determined with 3D/4D ultrasounds?

Yes, Ultrasound is considered as one of the most accurate form of gender determination. Gender determination is successful in majority of cases but not in every case, it is never 100% and can sometimes be inaccurate due to factors such as amniotic fluid levels, baby’s positioning, maternal weight and body type.

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When is the best time for Gender determination?

Gender determination can be done from 16 weeks plus

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Can I still have a 3D/4D Ultrasound, if I do not want to know the sex of the baby?

Yes, gender determination is optional. You can enjoy viewing your baby without knowing baby’s gender.

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Does Ultrasound have any side effects?

No. Ultrasound has no reported cases of side effects. Ultrasound is the use of high frequency sound waves to visualize organs and it has been in use for diagnostic purposes since the early 50’s. Ultrasound is used in every part of the world and proven to be a safe means of visualizing internal organs as well as fetuses (babies).

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Who will be performing my 3D/4D ultrasound?

First Look is staffed with only experienced  Sonographers. Our sonographers use safe practice guidelines set by the Canadian and American registries for diagnostic medical sonographers to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

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Does a 3D/4D ultrasound always provide clear pictures of baby?

Picture quality differs from individual to individual. In majority of cases the quality of pictures and visibility of baby’s face are great but not in every case. Different factors can hinder facial pictures of baby and these include placental positioning, baby’s positioning, amniotic fluid levels, cord positioning, maternal weight, maternal body type and other factors.

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What happens in cases when baby’s face is not clearly visualized or gender not determined?

In cases when gender cannot be determined or face is not clearly visible, the patient will be re-booked for a later session at no charge.

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How much time does it take for a 3D/4D ultrasound?

Time varies with every session, depending on what session (bundle) is booked. First Look does not have a time limit for the session. We continue the scan until satisfactory pictures are obtained within a reasonable time frame in accordance to the safe practices guidelines.

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What type of preparation is needed before a 3D/4D ultrasound?

With a 3D/4D ultrasound you do not need a full bladder, unless you are coming for a Sneak Peek Bundle or a First Look Bundle and you are coming before
10 weeks gestation.  Any ultrasounds before 10 weeks it is recommended to have a full bladder.  We only recommend that mom has something sweet to eat or drink 30 minutes prior to the session. *If mom is diabetic have something very cold instead*.

***THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CAN DO IN PREPARATION FOR YOUR 3D/4D ULTRASOUND IS TO DRINK 64 TO 80 OZ. OF WATER PER DAY FOR 1-2 WEEKS PRIOR TO YOUR APPOINTMENT. THIS WILL INCREASES THE REQUIRED FLUID AROUND THE BABY THAT WILL ALLOW US TO GET THE CLEAREST IMAGES POSSIBLE. MOM’S WHO DO NOT DRINK PLENTY OF WATER WILL NOT GET THE BEST QUAILTY IMAGES***

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Can I bring family members to watch my 3D/4D ultrasound?

Yes!  In fact we encourage friends and family members to come to be a part of this amazing experience.

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When do I get recordings of my baby?

All images are available right away and additional image copies (not video recordings) will be kept on file and available for purchase at any time.

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What are the methods of payment?

First Look accepts Cash, Debit, Visa, and MasterCard.

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Can I purchase gift certificates?

Yes Gift Certificates are available for purchase for any amount.

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Can First Look take any pictures for diagnostic Purposes?

No, First Look is a non diagnostic facility and cannot release any pictures for diagnostic purposes.

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Can 3D/4D ultrasound be used to replace diagnostic Imaging?

No, 3D/4D ultrasound is strictly cosmetic and cannot replace a diagnostic ultrasound.