What to Expect From Your 3D Ultrasound

Ultrasounds are one of the most important tests performed during pregnancy because they allow the doctor to see how the baby is growing and how the organs are developing. Ultrasounds are also a wonderful bonding moment as the baby's family has the chance to actually see the baby for the first time. Ultrasounds can also detect issues such as placenta previa and premature dilation of the cervix.

The 3D Ultrasound Process
At the beginning of an ultrasound a special gel is rubbed over the woman's abdomen and a wand that emits sound waves is rubbed across the gel. The sound waves travel into the abdomen and bounce off the baby to create an image for the doctor to analyze and the family to treasure. A 3D ultrasound is more detailed than a traditional ultrasound, allowing everyone in the room to see the baby's facial expressions and get an idea of what the baby's features will look like at birth.

When Should You Get a 3D Ultrasound
Women often have at least two or three ultrasounds during the course of their pregnancy. It is best to get a 3D ultrasound between 24 weeks and 28 weeks gestation because the baby will be fully developed and have fat under their skin without being squished in the womb. After 30 weeks gestation the baby is difficult to take pictures of because they are too crowded in the womb. A baby at less than 20 weeks gestation doesn't have fat under their skin so it is difficult to see what their facial features will actually look like.

Sonogram
A sonogram is the picture that the person performing the ultrasound prints out for the baby's mother to show their family and friends. The best sonograms come from 3D ultrasounds because they are very detailed and you can usually see facial expressions as well as individual fingers and toes. Many women frame these photos for the baby's nursery walls or have them made into a memory book they can keep forever and show the baby exactly how they looked before they were born.

Risks of 3D Ultrasound
An ultrasound is one of the best tests that can be performed during pregnancy because it is not invasive and there is very little risk involved. It can be uncomfortable to lie on your back for a long period of time in late pregnancy and some sonographers press too hard with the wand, but most sonographers will do whatever they can to keep the pregnant woman comfortable during their ultrasound. There is some debate as to whether or not 3D ultrasounds carry more risk than regular ultrasounds. Most doctors recommend that women don't have ultrasounds performed on their abdomen more than once per month unless it is absolutely necessary for the health of the baby.