If you are expecting and considering having an ultrasound here is some great information about elective ultrasounds.
How does an ultrasound work?
A prenatal ultrasound uses a transducer (often referred to as a probe) to deliver high-frequency sound waves. The probe is placed on the belly to look inside your body. The echoes of the sound waves are recorded and transformed into video and images of your baby.
A gel, which acts as a conductive medium for the sound waves, is used on your belly to increase the clarity of the images.
Is Prenatal Ultrasound Safe?
There is no evidence to show a prenatal ultrasound will harm you or your baby. Ultrasound does not use radiation. The sound generated is outside of the range humans can hear. Ultrasounds have been used since the 1950s to look at babies. The technology of the actual ultrasound has not changed much; what has changed is the use of big computers to gather the echo from the sound waves, and programmatically generate an amazing view of the baby.
What is the difference between all the different types of ultrasounds: 2D, 3D, 4D, 4D, HD, HD-Live, 5D?
2D ultrasounds are the traditional black & white ultrasounds. The pictures show the skeletal structure of the baby. You can also see the baby moving. This is the type of ultrasound that was probably used for your diagnostic ultrasound.
3D imaging shows the tissue (skin) of the baby. These are the images that look like pictures of your baby rather than pictures of your baby's skeleton. You can see the roundness of the baby's face, the shape of the nose and the contours of the lips. The color is computer-generated to enhance the pictures and make them more appealing.
4D/5D/HD imaging is a video where you see the baby moving with amazing clarity. We capture still photos from the video. 5D/HD is software that is used to smooth out the picture and make it a sharper image.
All of these different types of ultrasound imaging are achieved through software embedded in the ultrasound machine!
How should I prepare for my ultrasound?
There is no special preparation for an ultrasound at Anticipation. Some facilities require you to drink 4-6 glasses of water beforehand, so your bladder is full. That is not necessary at Anticipation Ultrasound. Our ultrasound machine is able to see the baby without looking through your bladder.
Will I be uncomfortable during my ultrasound?
There is virtually no discomfort during your ultrasound. The probe is pressed gently on your belly and moved around to find the best angle and view to see your baby.
Why Choose Anticipation Ultrasound?
Anticipation Ultrasound has been open since 2003. We utilize state of the art equipment from the industry leader, GE, to ensure you have the best experience possible while peeking at your baby. With our Live Video Stream technology, your friends and family can also be included in your experience even if they cannot come to the studio.
We also provide a See Your Baby Guarantee! If we cannot get a good picture of your baby's face, we can try again another day, for free!