Sunday, June 8, 2014

When Considering 3D Ultrasound Niceville FL Expectant Parents Will Find These Facts Helpful

By Kenya Campos


At one time, the only "pictures" of one's unborn baby available were the gray, fuzzy sonogram prints from standard two-dimensional ultrasounds. Parents today have much better options however, that allow them to take home beautiful images that are clearly recognizable as a baby, sometimes they are even presented with a DVD of the scan. This is made possible through 3D ultrasound Niceville FL facilities offer to expecting parents.

Traditional 2D scans are produced when sound waves introduced into the body using an instrument called a transducer bounce back to create an image on the screen. The main difference between a 2D and 3D scan is that the latter involves multiple angles and more advanced computer software, resulting in a detailed, three-dimensional image. 4D ultrasound goes a step further and allows parents to view the baby's movements in real time.

In use as an obstetrical diagnostic tool for over thirty years, ultrasound does not have any harmful side effects associated with its use. Safety of patients is ensured by FDA regulations which dictate the appropriate power level and standards equipment must meet. A 3D scan also uses the same level of power as those which are 2D.

The ideal time for expectant parents to book a 3D scan is between 26 and 32 weeks. Beginning at about 25 weeks it is possible to capture some quality images of the baby, and some parents will elect to attend more than one ultrasound session so they can get a better picture of the baby's progress and see the changes in him or her with each successive scan.

It is important to understand that these scans are entirely optional and are by no means meant to replace standard 2D ultrasounds that will likely be ordered by one's obstetrician. They are performed at the request of the parents solely for the purpose of enabling them to enjoy a "sneak peek" of their baby, not for diagnostic purposes. Ultrasound technicians can only discuss basic information with parents such as the position, gender, and number of babies in the womb.

Due to the growing popularity of these detailed "sneak previews", the choice of facilities offering these services is also rapidly expanding. As with anything, doing some comparative shopping beforehand is a good idea, parents should confirm that the staff at the facility is suitably trained and experienced and it also helps to get some reviews from other patients.

Certain factors can affect the results of the ultrasound and will determine how clear the images produced are, such as the stage in pregnancy and the baby's position. In the period between 26 and 32 weeks gestation, the baby gains facial fat, making its features more discernible. Also, there is more space in the womb, lessening the likelihood that the view may obscured by the placenta or umbilical cord.

Expectant mothers are often told to drink plenty of fluids before the ultrasound. The reason for this being that increased liquids will elevate the level of amniotic fluid, which in turn helps to produce better images from the scan. Besides this, it's also important for a healthy pregnancy.




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