Ultrasound is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to view internal organs and produce images of the human body. The human ear cannot hear the sound waves used in an ultrasound. Ultrasound is:
Noninvasive, which means it does not penetrate the skin or body openings, and
Diagnostic, which means it is used to determine what disease or condition is present
The technical term for ultrasound imaging is sonography.
Ultrasound technology was originally developed as sonar to track submarines during World War I. It was first used medically in the 1950s and is considered very safe.
*
What are the benefits of a 3D/4D ultrasound?
Studies show the bonding experience provided by a 3D/4D ultrasound can help mothers improve their diets, exercise more frequently, and eliminate harmful behaviors such as smoking and drinking. For fathers and siblings, the chance to see the baby and create a pre-birth bond is instrumental in drawing the whole family closer during this time of change.
*
What exactly is a 3D or 4D ultrasound?
A 3D ultrasound is performed using the exact same machine as a 2D ultrasound. The difference is a 2D ultrasound visualizes the baby in planes (or layers) and a 3D ultrasound looks at the surface of the baby. The term 4D simply means the element of motion has been added to a still 3D photo. 4D is also referred to as "3D Live".
