MOBILE Wee Peek Prenatal 3D/4D Ultrasound Imaging Service

Serving Vancouver and surrounding areas: Burnaby, New Westminster, Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, Port Moody, Richmond, Surrey and White Rock

We Come To You in the comfort of your home or home away from home

                                   

604 764 1715

What is Four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound?

“4D” is a combination of a traditional 3 D ultrasound image or photo, but in the case of video images, is in real time. This allows you to see a “movie” of your baby moving as it actually happens “live feed”. As far as ultrasound is concerned, 4D is the latest ultrasound technology.

What is the Optimal Time for a prenatal 3D/4D ultrasound?

This depends on how you would like to see your baby. At 17 to 24 weeks, babies have a  thin fat layer, and so they appear more skeletal in appearance. Between 25-36 weeks, babies are developing the fat layer that fills in their features so you will see more facial detail at this time. The best time to have your ultrasound is between 25-35weeks into your pregnancy to see baby’s features. After 36 weeks, it is more difficult to obtain good pictures due to the increasing size of the baby. However, all babies are different and we have been successful in obtaining great images all the way up to 38 weeks. The quality of the images will depend upon the baby’s position, size, and movement, maternal tissue and amount of amniotic fluid. For Twins, the best time is around 20-26 weeks of pregnancy. 

Does this replace the ultrasound at my doctor’s office?

ABSOLUTELY NOT! Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound with 4D Fetal Imaging must already be receiving prenatal care with a healthcare provider and have already undergone a medical, diagnostic ultrasound to confirm their due date, screen for fetal anomalies, and to diagnose any other pregnancy-related issues. Please note, at no time is this exam to be used in place of a complete diagnostic ultrasound.  A doctor’s note is NOT required.

Will you provide measurements of the baby or establish a due date?

We are an optional service and do not replace any element of your prenatal care. We will give no medical advice.

Gender Determination

After 18 weeks, we can determine gender with a high degree of accuracy. Due to the baby position, and other variables such as gestational age and amniotic fluid levels, it is not always possible to determine gender. 

How can I be sure to get the best possible 3D/4D pictures?

Most doctors recommend maintaining a healthy fluid intake, especially while you are pregnant. This will help to ensure your amniotic fluid is clear as well as full. We want you to relax and enjoy the bonding experience with your baby. There are many things out of the technician’s control like the baby’s position, the mother’s skin type and build, amount of amniotic fluid, etc. You do not need a full bladder after 20 weeks the day of the ultrasound. 

What should I do prior to the 3D/4D ultrasound appointment?

Drinking plenty of water throughout your pregnancy is always advised. Drink eight eight oz glasses of water each day one to two weeks prior to your appointment.  This will increase the required fluid around the baby that will allow the clearest possible images. About a half hour before your 3D/4D ultrasound scan, try to drink a fruit juice so that your baby will be awake during your session (unless you are told not to by your physician).

Are family and friends welcome?

Yes! You are welcome to invite any family or friends that you wish. The more the merrier!  Many clients have family visiting from out of town who are thrilled to be included in this bonding experience.  We also encourage you to Skype family if they are not in the country.

What if I am not satisfied with my images?

 Every baby scans differently, depending on its gestational age, the position of the placenta, amount of fluid, and mother’s condition. We will do our best to provide you with the best possible bonding experience and pictures.

When will I get my pictures from my ultrasound?

You will not have to wait. Wee Peek will print your pictures right on site after your appointment!

Should I make an appointment in advance?

Yes, Ultrasound appointments should be made in advance!  Weekends and evenings are the most popular appointment times. We really appreciate 24 hrs notice for cancellations when possible.

 

Is Ultrasound safe?

Yes, Ultrasound has been used safely in obstetrics for over 35 years. In the 35 years of use in medicine, there has never been a harmful effect shown by the use of ultrasound. Many women have multiple ultrasounds during their pregnancy with no negative effect on the baby. Women who are having trouble with pregnancy may have as many as two or three ultrasounds per week late in the third trimester.

The International Society for Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG), in 2002, stated: “Acoustic outputs are [generally] not high enough to produce deleterious effects. Their use, therefore, appears to be safe, for all stages of pregnancy.” (Abramowicz, et al. 105)

The American Pregnancy Association, “a national health organization committed to resolving reproduction, pregnancy and sexual health concerns through education, research, advocacy, and community awareness,” states the following: “[The] ultrasound is a non-invasive exam which poses no risks to the mother or developing fetus.” (Americanpregnancy.org)

Presently, ultrasound is as safe as ever, despite the false impression that 3-D/4-D technology poses greater risks than traditional 2-D. While conventional 2-D imaging requires a precise plane with which to observe the unborn baby, new techniques allow practitioners to freely rotate 3-D images of the scanned fetus within a stored volume. (Contemporary OB/GYN 4) Utilizing 3-D technology diminishes net exposure since volumetric images are rendered quickly and adjusted off-line.

Actually, 3-D/4-D “entertainment” scans that are performed by experienced, certified technicians often result in less exposure than those for diagnostic purposes. Volume acquisition, multiple 2-D images converted by the computer into a detailed 3-D picture, occurs in seconds. Since the technician can manipulate images off-line (probe not in contact with skin) with no time limitations, “three-dimensional sonography reduces tremendously the time of exposure of [fetus] to the ultrasound beam.” (Kurjak 1)

Please see information under our “blog” for more details on safety.

Can I purchase a gift certificate for a friend or family member?

Absolutely!  What a wonderful gift for a loved one.  We can mail/ email your gift certificate or send an e-card on your behalf. How easy is that?

 What types of payment do you except?

We welcome  Visa, MasterCard, Debit and E transfer

Helpful Links:

  • www.ob-ultrasound.net
  • www.ob-ultrasound.net/studies.html