3D and 4D ultrasound
Scans are carried out at the practice during the consultation: you leave with the report and the images.
An examination explained as it happens
Obstetric ultrasound answers precise questions according to the stage. In the first trimester it dates the pregnancy, confirms that it is inside the uterus, counts the number of embryos and measures nuchal translucency. In the second, the anatomy scan reviews the baby's anatomy structure by structure. In the third, it assesses growth, position, the placenta and the amniotic fluid.
3D reconstructs a volume from the individual slices; 4D adds movement in real time. These modes never replace conventional two-dimensional ultrasound, which remains the reference medical examination: they complete it, making certain malformations easier to read and giving parents images of the face and hands far more telling than a slice.
Outside pregnancy, pelvic ultrasound examines the uterus and the ovaries. It has a place in investigating painful or heavy periods, a cyst, a fibroid, infertility, or bleeding after menopause.
In every case, the examination is explained as it goes along. What can be seen, what remains to be checked, what warrants a follow-up scan: nothing is left for you to work out alone from a report.
Questions about ultrasound
Is ultrasound safe for the baby?
Ultrasound uses sound waves, not X-rays. No harmful effect has been demonstrated at the intensities used in obstetrics. That is why it can be repeated as often as medical care requires.
Is any preparation needed?
For an obstetric scan, none. For a pelvic scan by the abdominal route, a full bladder is usually required; you will be told when booking whether this applies.
At what stage are 3D images clearest?
The face reconstructs best somewhere between the 26th and 32nd week: the baby has filled out and there is still enough fluid around them. Quality also depends on their position, which cannot be ordered — this is the one examination whose visual result can never be guaranteed in advance.
Do I take the images home?
Yes, with the report of the examination and the images. The report is the medical document: it is what counts for the rest of your care.
Other consultations
Ultrasound most often forms part of one of these areas of care.
Need to book a scan?
Say the stage of pregnancy or the reason when booking, and the slot will be set accordingly.