Frequently asked Questions
What is an elective prenatal Ultrasound?
We offer elective 2D, 3D & 4D prenatal Ultrasounds to provide a positive bonding experience for the mother, father and family members with the unborn baby.
We feel that realistic surface images provide a connection between the parents and baby that can be beneficial to the whole family. We make no claims that 3D/4D, as used in this examination, is performed to better assess the baby for abnormalities. A routine Ultrasound examination should have already been performed to assess the gestational age of the fetus and to evaluate for fetal anomalies as well as the basic components of fetal anatomy recommended for screening.
What is the difference between 2D, 3D & 4D imaging?
2D is the traditional black and white skeletal images captured in your doctor’s office. 3D is the still surface images of the baby’s features that allow you to see what your baby looks like and are printed in your package. 4D is the live motion you are watching on the screen.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover Card, and debit cards.
Does this take the place of an Ultrasound at my doctor’s office?
ABSOLUTELY NOT!
Women seeking an elective prenatal Ultrasound with First Expressions must already be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care and have already undergone a medical, diagnostic Ultrasound ordered by their provider to confirm their due date, screen for fetal anomalies, and to look for any other pregnancy related issues. The issues that we are evaluating in the elective prenatal Ultrasound session include a limited diagnostic scan to confirm heartbeat, the number of babies in the pregnancy, the position of the baby, and the placental location. Please note, at no time is this exam to be used in place of a complete diagnostic Ultrasound.
Is it safe? Are there any risks to me, or my baby?
Extensive studies over 40 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. 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. 4D Ultrasound will be similar to a conventional scan in terms of exposure.
Is the 4D Ultrasound covered by Insurance?
At this point, traditional 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. Some HSA flexible spending accounts that provide you with a VISA or MasterCard to use for medical expenses will cover our ultrasounds. You should call your insurance provider prior to your appointment to verify 4D ultrasounds are covered under your HSA plan. We accept cash, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover Card, and debit cards.
Will I always get a beautiful picture of my baby?
Most of the time, we are able to get a picture of your baby; but not always.
Sometimes if the baby is persistently looking face down, i.e. towards your spine, it may be difficult to see the baby’s face. If this happens, a free repeat scan in one to two weeks will usually succeed because the baby has turned to a favorable position. We make no promises that the images will be similar to those you might have seen elsewhere or even from our clinic, or that we can always meet everyone’s expectations. Every baby scans differently, depending on its gestational age, position, amount of fluid, and mother’s condition. We promise to make every effort to obtain the best possible images of whatever parts of the baby that can be seen.
What will determine quality of the images?
Fetal position is the number one determination of your image quality. Some babies come ready for viewing and great images are obtained. Others simply turn their back or cuddle up to the placenta or the uterine wall or insist on putting their hands and feet in front of their face. We will try hard to make your baby move in order to see and image the face. Drinking juice or eating a little candy may help the baby move a little on that day of imaging.
What can I do to improve the images of my ultrasound?
WATER! Is the best answer to how to improve your images. You should be drinking plenty of water beginning at least 7 days before your scheduled appointment. Water can improve the quality of an ultrasound.
Timing
Baby face images should be obtained between 27-32 weeks of pregnancy. The best images will be obtained between 27-32 weeks. The later in the pregnancy you are (past 32 weeks) water consumption will become extremely important to ensure enough amniotic fluid is present for ultrasound to work properly.
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Prior to Appointment
Please be sure to drink plenty of water in the 2 weeks prior to your appointment. The more water you drink in the 2 weeks leading up to the appointment, the clearer/better the images will be.
Please arrive to your appointment a few minutes early to fill out paperwork required.
SEE BABY APPOINTMENTS (7-13 weeks): Please be sure to arrive with a full bladder.
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Guests
​The studio can accommodate up to 5-7 guest to view the ultrasound. Seating is provided for 5 individuals, but there is plenty of standing space. Other children are welcome to attend.
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