< Prenatal Vision - FAQ
What is an elective prenatal Ultrasound?
We offer elective 2D, 3D and 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 3-D 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.
Does this take the place of an Ultrasound at my doctor's office?
NO! Women seeking an elective prenatal Ultrasound with Prenatal Vision must already be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care and preferrably 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 confirmation of the 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. Prenatal Vision offers Level I Diagnostic services, please refer to our diagnostic page for further information.
Is it safe? Are there any risks to me or my baby?

Extensive studies over 30 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.

The greatest risks arising from the use of ultrasound are the possible over- and under- diagnosis brought about by inadequately trained staff and using poor equipment. Prenatal Vision Ultrasound employs RDMS (registered diagnostic medical sonographers)- highly trained medical personnel. We also use only a state-of-the-art Ultrasound machine, a GE Voluson 730, Expert. You can rest assured that we are dedicated to your safety and always follow strict standards of practice.


Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services.We recommend that you schedule your appointment at least two weeks in advance, especially if a Saturday appointment is needed.
How long does the 4D Ultrasound take?
Depending on the package you choose, the 4D Ultrasound session will last between 15 and 30 minutes. The entire appointment usually lasts 40 minutes from start to finish.
How far along should I be before I have a 3D/4D Ultrasound?
We would recommend having the examination performed between the 26th and 34th week of the pregnancy. However, excellent images of your baby can be obtained anytime after about 24 weeks of pregnancy. Expectant mothers that are full-figured should consider scheduling their 3D/4D ultrasound between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy, as the ultrasound tends to be clearer and the results more desirable and comparable to the images in our picture gallery. Special Note: If you are expecting twins or multiples, the best time for 3D/4D ultrasound is between 22-27 weeks. This allows for a greater chance of capturing interaction between the babies.
What can I do to improve the quality of the ultrasound?
DRINK PLENTY OF WATER!!! We do not require that you have a full bladder; however, we do ask that you are well hydrated throughout your pregnancy. Please drink slightly more water that you normally consume for 2-3 days before your appointment. Hydration can significantly improve the clarity of an ultrasound.
Can I bring my family and friends?
Yes. In fact, we encourage our clients to invite family and friends to attend the elective 4D Ultrasound session. This is a joyous and wonderful experience, one that can be shared with your family and loved ones. We can comfortably accommodate 5 to 7 people. Our seating is specifically arranged so that everyone in your party will have an excellent view of our large screen 4D images of the baby.
How soon can you tell the gender of the baby?
We can determine the sex of the baby if you are at least 17 weeks - with 99.9 % accuracy. We can't however guarantee that the baby will cooperate during your session. Certain factors such as body tissue content, developmental stage and fetal position all affect the ability to determine sex. If that is the case we will have you to return at NO additional charge.
What type of ultrasound equipment do you use to perform the 3D/4D ultrasound?
We use the state of the art technology - the GE Voluson 730 Expert to complete all ultrasound exams. The GE Voluson 730 Expert has been shown in TV commercials and featured in many articles from around the world, and is the best ultrasound machine to perform 3D/4D live-motion imaging. Please note, many centers claim to use state-of-the-art equipment, when in fact they use older, inferior technology or do software upgrades for 3D and 4D configuration. This compromises the quality of images.
Will insurance cover my ultrasound?
Since we are a full diagnostic ultrasound imaging center your insurance will cover a portion of your 3D ultrasound ONLY IF your physician is referring you for a COMPLETE DIAGNOSTIC EXAM. This means that your physician is referring you to our facility WITH A PRESCRIPTION FOR A MEDICAL DIAGNOSTIC EXAM AND we are CONTRACTED WITH YOUR INSURANCE (Please call to see if we accept your insurance). At that point you may add the 3D/4D experience, DVD recording, color photos, and black and white photos to your medical exam. The cost of this is only $75.00. The $75 covers the expense of the DVD and the photographs. This is not required. The 3D/4D does not increase the ability to detect abnormalities during your diagnostic exam. The 3D/4D only helps you to see the structures of your baby in a way that you are familiar with. At this point, insurance does not cover the costs of 3D/4D ultrasounds without the diagnostic exam. Please refer to our diagnostic page. We accept Visa, MasterCard, debit cards and cash. We no longer accept checks and apologize for the inconvenience.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, debit cards and cash. We no longer accept
checks and apologize for the inconvenience.