The questions listed below are the most frequently asked questions about our elective 3D/4D prenatal ultrasound packages at Bay Area Ultrasounds, LLC.

Should you have any questions that are not listed below feel free to call us at (361)900-7226.

What is the difference between 2D, 3D, and 4D Ultrasound?

2D-As the most common form of ultrasound, a 2D ultrasound creates a black and white image that shows the skeletal structure of the baby and makes the internal organs visible. The 2D ultrasound is most commonly used to diagnosis the health of the baby. As the name implies, all 2D images are flat and have no depth to them.

3D-Much like 2D ultrasounds, a 3D ultrasound uses soundwaves to develop an image of the baby inside of your womb. However, unlike the flat image given by a 2D ultrasound, a 3D ultrasound creates the appearance of a three-dimensional image of the baby. This allows the expecting parents to see their baby’s face, rather than just the outline of the face.

4D-ultrasounds also create a three-dimensional image and provide an even clear image of the baby. The 4D ultrasound is created while capturing a video of your baby. We then scroll through the video and save still images. With 4D ultrasound imaging, you could potentially see your baby smile or yawn in the womb because it compiles hundreds of images into a moving video.

5D/HD LIVE-As the most recent advancement in ultrasound technology, HD and HD Live (also called 5D Ultrasound ) ultrasounds allow us to capture even clearer, sharper images. It allows you sonographer to manipulate the light source to give the most anatomically realistic images. These images are more defined and have better resolution.

Does this take the place of an Ultrasound at my doctor's office & does insurance cover it?

NO! Women seeking an elective prenatal Ultrasound with Bay Area Ultrasounds, LLC must already be receiving prenatal care with a healthcare provider.  Your doctor should have already confirmed your due date, screened for fetal anomalies, and looked for any other pregnancy-related issues. You should also be certain that your doctor is made aware of your appointment at our office in case they have any concerns.
The ELECTIVE ultrasound services performed at Bay Area Ultrasounds, LLC are not for medical purposes.  They are for entertainment purposes only.  We perform our services so you can see and bond with your baby only. We will not discuss any medical or diagnostic information in your session. As a result, this is not covered by insurance. It is your responsibility to have and continue your prenatal care through your healthcare provider for the duration of your pregnancy.

How safe is the ultrasound for me and my baby?

Studies for the last 30 years have found that ultrasound has not been shown to cause any harm to mother or baby. Routine scanning of all pregnancies is widely used in the United States. Consult your doctor for any concerns or questions.

How many weeks do I have to be to have an ultrasound at Bay Area Ultrasounds, LLC?

At least 7 weeks. We recommend that the best time to view your baby in 3D/4D is between 28 and 32 weeks, Scans done before 25 weeks can provide for fun video recordings. We will provide ultrasounds from 7 weeks to up to 39 weeks gestation (given you are being followed by a provider). Beyond 34 weeks, a baby may be too big. Imaging may or may not be successful and will largely be dependent on baby position and amniotic fluid. Twins are best between 24-27 weeks and will not be performed later than the 27th week.

How many weeks do I have to be to hear baby's heartbeat?
At Bay Area Ultrasounds we do not put the pulse wave we need to hear baby's heart until at least 13 weeks gestation. While ultrasound has not been shown to cause any biological effects, spectral pulse wave doppler is a higher acoustic output and while the fetal heart is developing, it is not recommended to expose baby to this type of scan per the AIUM (American Institute of Ultrasound Medicine).

 Will you be able to determine if my baby is a boy or girl?

Yes, at 14 weeks we will try to tell you gender. We recommend after 17 weeks. If we can't determine a gender we will provide you with another "sneak peek" appointment at no charge. The "sneak peek" appointment will be a 5-minute ultrasound with one black and white 2D image to check for gender. At no time do we ever guarantee the sex of the baby 100%.

Are the images as clear as the ones we have seen in pictures from others?

We would like to tell you yes, but not every scan will be as clear. We give no guarantee that you will get picture-perfect images. There are many factors outside of our control. For instance, the position of the baby, the maternal tissue, placenta position, and amniotic fluid. Babies can sometimes cover their faces with hands and/or feet or they can be too close to the placenta. Lastly, the amniotic fluid helps to transmit the sound waves so we always recommend coming in well hydrated. You do not need to have a full bladder, but mothers should be drinking the daily recommended amount of water by their physician. If twins are scanned, please know that our goal is to capture at least one baby.  Unfortunately, we won't be able to guarantee images of both babies, but we will offer second attempt 15-minute appointment at no extra cost.

Can I bring family and friends to my elective ultrasound and when do I get my pictures?

Absolutely!! And your children too, but they MUST always be supervised for safety. We ask that you have one other adult supervise the children you bring with you to ensure their safety. We can comfortably seat up to 4 people in our exam room. You will get everything the day you come in.

What forms of payment do you take and why do you ask for a credit card just to schedule?

Mastercard, Visa, Discover, American Express, and Cash.  Payment is expected prior to services on the day of your appointment.  Sorry, we do NOT accept checks.
We do require a credit card to book and hold your appointment. We will not charge the credit card unless you fail to give 24 hours notice of cancellation or of your need to reschedule the appointment already made. The cancellation/reschedule fee within 24 hours of your appointment is $35 regardless of any circumstances. We also ask clients to come 15 minutes early for paperwork and no more than 15 minutes late to their actual appointment time to avoid having us cancel the appointment due to time constraints. We apologize but we are not able to wait for late family members; so please let them know in advance. Call us at 361-900-7226,  if you should need to cancel your appointment. If it is after our normal scheduling hours, you can leave us a voice mail to ensure the 24 hours notice so we will know when you called to avoid the $35 charge.

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What can I do to help attain the best images possible?

We would like you to be aware of the optimal times for imaging. Babies early on are fun to watch, but facial shots are best between weeks 27-32 weeks. Also, make sure you are drinking the water your doctor has instructed you on as it also helps to have plenty of fluid around the baby. Two attempts will be made 1 week apart for 3D/4D images. After that, the sonographer reserves the right to modify packages at their discretion.