3D / 4D Ultrasound

Ultrasound scans are now an established part of pregnancy, with most mums-to-be having at least two scans to monitor the development of the baby and to check for any problems. While for most people a traditional scan is thrilling enough, giving the first chance to see your child, the pictures that result are, with the best will in the world, somewhat fuzzy and inconclusive.

Recent developments in technology though have led to a new kind of scan which gives much clearer pictures, with depth and movement.

How 3D / 4D differs from 2D

As well as offering a much better picture quality where you can actually see your baby's features and expressions, the 4D element lets you see movement and behaviours such as yawning, stretching, and other details which would be impossible to see in a normal scan without expert training and experience.

For most people who have the scan, the experience is powerfully bonding, as the developing baby seems much more 'real' than in the grainy black and white images we're used to from 2D scans.

While the results are generally of a very high standard, the quality of the images depends on how much fluid there is around your baby, the position she's lying in, and also how much fat the mother has on her bump! Unlike traditional scans, there is no need for mum to have a full bladder, so the experience is less uncomfortable.

4D scans are not for medical purposes, and make no claims to identify any problems in development, although scans by reputable clinics will be conducted by NHS-trained professional sonographers who will refer you to your doctor if they spot anything that be may a cause for worry.