Your Ultrasound

There are many prenatal diagnostic purposes for which 3D and 4D ultrasounds can be of help. While 2D ultrasounds are critical, too, adding the third and fourth planes to the view can allow a medical professional to view development issues as diverse as cleft palate and Down syndrome.

Businesses that offer 3D and 4D ultrasounds commercially for reassurance or keepsakes purposes also share that there are many reasons parents-to-be seek out these services. It’s not just for “entertainment.”

For example, Geddes Keepsakes (which also provides diagnostic services) relates that its licensed providers have seen benefits of seeing Baby in 3D or 4D as follows: discouraging substance abuse (including smoking an drinking) during pregnancy; fetal bonding for the mother and other family members; to identify medical conditions; to “assist a patient and family in dealing with a known fetal anomaly”; and, in the case of fetal death, assisting in bereavement. Although it is controversial, some advocate the use of 3D and 4D ultrasound for persons considering an abortion.

Be advised that groups including the American Pregnancy Association and the American Institute for Ultrasound in Medicine, as well as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, recommend that ultrasounds be used only when medically indicated. For more information on safety please visit YourUltrasound.com’s page on baby ultrasound safety.

4D ultrasound of 28-week baby boy