Volume (4D) Ultrasound in Pregnancy

3D and 4D ultrasound scans should be regarded as additional scans and are not part of your routine antenatal care. But, 3D and 4D scans provide more information about a known abnormality and are regularly used as part of our anomaly scan whenever necessary. It helps to closely examine suspected fetal anomalies, such as cleft lips or spina bifida 4D scanning can also be useful to look at the heart and other internal organs. Because these scans can show more detail from different angles, this can help doctors to plan the treatment after birth. In addition, our state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment shows how the baby “behaves” in the womb, as well as seeing what your baby looks like before being born.

For optimal 3D and 4D scan images, the best time to arrange a visit is between 24 and 28 weeks (after you’ve had your fetal anomaly scan at 18-22 weeks). Women with twins wishing to attend for a 3D and 4D baby scan should visit at around 25 weeks, as twins have less space.

The quality of your 3D scan images and 4D scan movie is determined by the baby’s position, amount of amniotic fluid around the baby (the more the better) and the amount of tissue (skin, fat and muscle) between the probe and the baby. The most important factor in 3D and 4D baby scanning is the baby’s position. If the baby is lying in a difficult position a satisfactory ultrasound scan may be difficult.

There has been no evidence to suggest that Ultrasound scanning presents any risk to the mother and baby. This is being monitored on an ongoing basis by experts worldwide. The Ultrasound output levels of our 3D and 4D scanning equipment, GE Voluson machine are no more than the traditional 2D scanning equipment used. While there is no hard evidence for harmful effects of 3D/4D ultrasound, its use in non-medical situations should not be undertaken