Ultrasounds use sound waves to produce images of organs, and are routinely ordered during pregnancy to assess development and identify abnormalities. 4D ultrasounds provide more detailed images of the fetus, but are not medically necessary and should be performed by licensed sonographers. Safety concerns should be discussed with a doctor.
Ultrasounds, sometimes referred to as sonograms, are medical tests that use high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the body’s organs. If you are pregnant, ultrasounds are routinely ordered to produce an image of the fetus. A 4D ultrasound uses a special ultrasound machine and takes images from a few different angles, which reveal more detailed pictures of the fetus, such as facial features. It can also capture the movements your baby makes during the procedure.
A standard ultrasound only provides a two-dimensional image of the fetus. They are usually ordered in pregnancy for a variety of reasons, such as assessing the baby’s development, determining gestational age, and identifying any abnormalities. Although the standard ultrasound produces an image of the fetus, an experienced sonographer or other medical professional may be needed to identify the features and body parts. Souvenir photos are given to the patient, but are often grainy.
Occasionally, a two-dimensional ultrasound may indicate a problem and a more sophisticated 4D ultrasound is needed to confirm an abnormality. For many pregnant women, there is no medical need for this test, but the expectant mother wants to get a better look at her baby. Most centers that do this type of ultrasound recommend testing after 25 weeks of gestation, at which point, the baby is usually old enough to see her features clearly.
Standard ultrasounds are ordered by a healthcare professional and performed at a clinic, doctor’s office, or ultrasound center. 4D ultrasounds do not require a specific order and are often performed at a private ultrasound company, which specializes in souvenir images. The procedure is non-invasive and takes about 20 minutes to complete.
After applying a conductive gel to the abdomen, the procedure is performed by sliding a transducer over the pregnant woman’s abdomen. A monitor is in view, allowing the woman to view the fetus and watch as the ultrasound is completed. The mother receives a souvenir photo and a video of the baby.
The United States Food and Drug Administration regulates the level of energy used in ultrasound machines. Although considered safe, many medical professionals believe that medically unnecessary ultrasounds should be avoided. This has caused some debate about the electoral procedures.
Due to the fact that 4D machines create a higher quality image, there is some concern that the energy level used by them may be higher, although this has not been proven. Women who want a souvenir photo and opt for a 4D ultrasound should ensure that the technician performing the test is a licensed sonographer. It’s also best for women considering the procedure to speak to a doctor about any safety concerns.
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