Should You Get A 4D Ultrasound Scan For Pregnancy?

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Are you thinking about getting a 4D baby scan? In this video I talk about what is a 4D baby scan, what to expect during a 4D baby scan appointment, and whether or not I think it is worth the investment.

Let’s get into it!

What is a 4D baby scan?

More than an ultrasound which is gives you a 2D visual of your baby, the 4D allows you to see your baby in 3D! You can make out facial features pretty clearly as well as limbs, fingers and toes!

A 4D scan is recommended from 27-34 weeks, the baby has developed enough to get a great photo, and still has enough room to move around in the tummy.

What to expect during a 4D baby scan?

Usually this is a private service in the UK, the clinic you enter will be really lovely. The rooms are much larger than the NHS rooms, and you get a real ‘at home’ cosy feel.

As per the usual ultra sound, you will be asked to lay down and gel will be applied to your belly, as the nurse will start to scan your tummy. At first you will see only the regular 2D scan until the baby has been located and the face can be seen! The image will then change into a 3D visual, where you will hopefully get a good look at your baby’s face! This is such a special moment! <3

During this appointment the nurse will also re-measure baby, and plot the growth on the usual growth & development chart. Since the last time you would have had this done, would have been at the 20 week mark. It is so brilliant to have these measurement done now, at a later date to confirm baby is growing healthy and well.

At this scan you can also confirm the baby’s gender, typically at 20 weeks the gender is 95% accurate, whereas with a 4D scan it is 99%! So if you want to double check – this is a great option!

What if you cannot see the face?

Sometimes the baby does not play ball, it can be in an awkward position where the face is be pressed up against.. the placenta, for example. And the camera needs a little bit of space between the face and any other structures in order to be able to get that photo!

If this is the case and you cannot see baby, you will be asked to empty your bladder, walk up and down the stairs, perform some star jumps – all done to try to get the baby to change positions. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t.

In my case, it unfortunately didn’t work.

I was also recommended to have something cold & sweet prior to the appointment to try to get the baby moving around, however again for me this didn’t do the trick.

Is a 4D baby scan worth the money?

For me and my husband, yes! We loved the experience, and seeing our little baby again was well worth it. In the UK your 20week scan is the last one you will have, which is only the half way point… So it was very comforting to get to see baby wriggling again at around 30 weeks.

The re-measuring of baby, listening to her heartbeat, and just seeing her moving again is all so comforting as a new parent. It was a wonderful experience, I would definitely recommend it!

Love,

Lara x

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