Why Have a 4D Pregnancy Ultrasound?

Rather than a traditional 2 dimensional image of the unborn foetus X-RAY & IMAGING provide the option of having a 4D ultrasound to allow parents to see their unborn baby in far more detail.

Rather than simply showing the shape of the foetus, 3 dimensional images show the unique facial and anatomical features of your baby. The clarity of the images are variable and are subject to the baby's positioning, size etc. Images are played in real time motion to create the 4D video clip of your unborn baby moving in the womb.

When should I have my 4D Ultrasound?

The best time for obtaining optimum images of your baby varies with each pregnancy though it is normally best to book in for 27 - 32 weeks. This is the time when the baby is still sitting relatively high in the womb and there is plenty of amniotic fluid still in the uterus.

Who performs the examination?

Ultrasounds are performed by specialist ultrasound staff called sonographers. All X-RAY & IMAGING sonographers have a minimum of 10 years clinical ultrasound experience.

What happens during the examination?

4D ultrasound examinations are performed the same as normal obstetric ultrasounds.

Once in the ultrasound room, the sonographer will apply a gel to your lower abdomen and pass a marker pen shaped instrument known as a transducer over the gel until images of the foetus appear on the screen.

After the normal 2D ultrasound images are captured, the sonographer will then do the examination again using slightly different equipment.

Once the sonographer is happy that the images are accurate the examination is over. The images are reviewed and interpreted by a radiologist and are printed for you to take with you to your next doctor's appointment.

In most cases the whole process takes around an hour from entering the building and leaving with your results.

Is the examination painful or uncomfortable?

The ultrasound should cause you no pain. The only discomfort you might feel is the initial cool sensation of the gel.

Do I need to do any preparation for 4D Pregnancy Ultrasound?

You are required to have a full bladder for this examination. 90 minutes before your appointment start drinking a litre of water and try to hold it in your bladder until after your obstetric ultrasound has been performed.

You should try to wear lose fitting clothes that allow you to expose your lower abdomen. This will prevent you from having to remove some or all of your clothes for the ultrasound.

Where can I have this examination and how much does it cost?

You can have a 4D ultrasound examination at any X-RAY & IMAGING practice.

X-RAY & IMAGING bulk bill all obstetric ultrasounds to all patients entitled to Medicare and DVA cover who have an eligible doctor's referral.

To be entitled to Medicare cover for a 4D ultrasound you must:

1. Be around 30 weeks pregnant and have not had an ultrasound since before the 22nd week gestation.

2. Have a doctors referral with a clinical reason for the examination.

You can have a 3D/4D ultrasound without a Doctors referral by visiting : www.3dbabies.com.au for more information.

Do I have to book an appointment?

Yes. Ultrasound appointments are often booked several days in advance so it is important to book as soon as possible. Call your closest X-RAY & IMAGING practice to book your appointment.

Caloundra (07) 5438 2011

Coolum (07) 5446 1599