Your Different Options for Ultrasounds
Going to an ultrasound is one of the most exciting parts of any pregnancy. They are a glimpse of what your baby looks like, and they can be truly magical moments. There are three different types of ultrasounds that should be considered before you make your appointment.
Two Dimensional (2D) Ultrasounds
The two dimensional ultrasounds are what you think of when you think of traditional ultrasounds in television shows. The image of the baby is transmitted in flat black and white. Occasionally, it is hard for expecting mothers to make out exactly what they are seeing because of the poor quality of the image. The two dimensional ultrasound is the best ultrasound for ensuring that the baby is developing properly, and it is also best for estimating the size of the fetus. This is why most obstetricians will use the two dimensional method for regular checkups. Two dimensional ultrasounds are seen in real time, so all of the baby’s movements are apparent.
Three Dimensional (3D) Ultrasounds
A fairly new technology, the three dimensional ultrasound is used mostly for recreational purposes rather than medical purposes. The images seen by three dimensional ultrasound machines show the tissues of the fetus, so that you can actually get an image of what the baby looks like. Expecting parent are always ecstatic when they receive a three dimensional ultrasound because they can start determining which parent the baby most looks like.
Four Dimensional (4D) Ultrasound
Four Dimensional ultrasounds are similar to three dimensional ultrasounds, except the four dimensional machines have the ability to produce a constant, real time video feed. Several clinics provide DVDs of your baby’s movements, so you can treasure them forever and even show your child when they grow up.
Three dimensional and four dimensional ultrasound machines are slowly making their way into obstetrician offices; however, since two dimensional machines show skeletal features of a fetus, sometime it is more helpful to use a two dimensional ultrasound for a checkup. Many companies offer additional three dimensional and four dimensional screenings if you are interested in purchases pictures and videos of your baby for emotional value.
It is important to remember that although three dimensional and four dimensional ultrasounds sound exciting, safety is of utmost importance when it comes to your baby. Ensure that the provider you make an appointment with is certified to perform ultrasounds. Also, an ultrasound should be no longer than thirty minutes, and the ultrasound machine should be FDA-approved.
Peter Wendt is a writer and researcher specializing in Austin 4D ultrasound appointment. For readers who are interested in learning more about this subject, Peter recommends they check out MiracleInsight.com.