Frequently Asked Questions

We get a lot of questions regarding what the difference is between 2D, 3D, 4D, and HD ultrasound! So, we're going to answer that for you!

• 2D B&W ultrasounds are the traditional B&W images that are used for diagnostic purposes and where you will see a cute picture of baby's profile or gender!
• 3D ultrasound is a still image that shows the surface features of a baby's face, hands, and body!
• 4D ultrasound is where you see the surface features of the baby, but you are watching a real-time video of what the baby is doing! This is where we can watch baby yawn, smile, or suck it's thumb!
• HD ultrasound, or Virtual HD, is a new technology that is applied to 3D/4D ultrasounds and improves the quality and clarity of the images. Think of it like an HDTV having better quality images than previous TVs.

We use all of these technologies here at The Maternity Imaging to ensure the best quality images and give you the best experience possible!

In order to receive a diagnostic ultrasound you MUST have a written order for the particular ultrasound from your OB/GYN or a referral from your Midwife. This gives us "permission" to perform the ultrasound for you and send the radiologist report to your referring provider following the ultrasound so they can follow up with you on the proper care for you and your baby!

No. This is strictly an elective ultrasound for the purpose of bonding and sharing this exciting time with your family! You must have a letter from your current OB stating that you have had prenatal care and have had your diagnostic anatomy ultrasound prior to your appointment with us, or you must sign a waiver stating your understanding of the non-diagnostic nature of these ultrasounds and that you are under the care of a Midwife or OB/GYN. Your diagnostic anatomy ultrasound will go through and check all the internal anatomy of the baby, from the heart and other internal organs to the brain and it's structures, to make sure your baby is healthy. With The Maternity Imaging, our 3D/4D ultrasound is focused solely on the external features and movements in order to cultivate a bond between the mother, the family, and the baby!

DRINK LOTS OF WATER!!! To improve your chances of getting great 3D/4D pictures you need to drink lots of water and stay hydrated. We recommend, for at least the 2 weeks leading up to your ultrasound session, to drink a minimum of 64oz of water a day. This will help maintain good fluid levels around the baby, which is needed to obtain good pictures!

Unfortunately, not all ultrasound sessions will look like the ones you see in magazines or when you google search. With the best technology and with registered sonographers, we believe your chances are great at achieving some beautiful images with The Maternity Imaging! Although, there are several factors, out of mine and your control that will affect the quality of the images. These are...

1. Position of the baby. The baby's position has the greatest impact on image quality. Many baby's cooperate with lots of open face views, smiles and yawns. Others however, hide behind feet, hands and the placenta. Some baby's sleep through their sessions... while others press their face right against the uterine wall. And yet others will face the mother's spine, giving us a great view of their back. If your baby is not in a good position, our sonographers will work to safely encourage the baby to change position.
2. Tissue density. Since ultrasound waves must pass through the skin and uterine wall to reach the baby, the composition and thickness of skin tissue and the uterine wall can impact image quality.
3. Amniotic fluid levels. The amount of fluid surrounding the baby will also impact image quality. The more fluid, the better, which is why we encourage our Moms-to-be to increase their fluid intake during the weeks leading up to their session!

I have 3 things that I will be bringing into your space of choice: my ultrasound machine (about 2ft x 2ft), a masseuse-style folding bed, and a small chair. My only other need will be access to an outlet.

You must either call, message, or email at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled session if you need to cancel or reschedule. Cancellations under 24 hours and no-shows will be charged a $25 sitting fee.