Questions and Answers

What will I see?

4D ultrasound reveals moving 3D images of your baby. We will check the baby's position, explain the views, and be happy to answer any questions. You will see your baby's face, the fingers and toes, and watch as the baby moves inside the womb. The lifelike images provide a unique bonding experence.

What will I receive?

The entire scan will be recorded onto a DVD. You will also receive a CD with typically 10-15 still images as well as several images printed on the day. As the DVD and CD are not copy protected you may make further copies on a home computer, produce further prints and email your own pictures.

Who performs the scan?

Every scan is performed by a Fetal Medicine Consultant. (An Obstetrician who has undertaken years of further specialist training in ultrasound for the care of babies before they are born). Because of this, places are limited.

Sessions are held on a Wednesday and Thursday evening 16:30–19:30.

Is ultrasound safe?

The 4D images are generated from a series of 2D images. Extensive studies on the effects of ultrasound have shown that it causes no known harm to mother or baby.

What if there is a problem?

Your scan is not specifically performed as a medical check for abnormalities. However, as your scan in performed to the highest standard by a Fetal Medicine Consultant, if a problem is seen he will be able to explain this without delay and arrange all of the necessary follow up with your own hospital.

When is the best time to book my scan?

We recommend booking your scan between 24 and 30 weeks to achieve the best images. This is because earlier scans will show less detail and although later scans may produce excellent images, the baby's position is more fixed and may prevent a clear view of the face. The quality of the image will also be affected by the weight of the mother and position of the placenta. If the baby's position prevents a good view then we will try again after a short delay. If necessary a further appointment can be arranged at no extra cost.

Twins are best scanned before 27 weeks as there is already less space.

All scans are performed using the state of the art 'Voluson 730 Expert' ultrasound machine in our Department of Fetal Medicine.

• 4D ultrasound: 
  £200. Best at 25-30 weeks, includes fetal sexing if required, CD, still images and DVD.
   
• Detailed 2D anatomy survey:
  £200. Performed after 20 weeks. Includes a detailed view of the fetal heart (echocardiography), 2D still images and fetal sexing if required.
   
• Determination of the fetal sex:
  £90. Offered after 24 weeks.
   
• Fetal Wellbeing:
  £120. From 24 weeks scans may be requested to measure the fetal growth, estimate the fetal weight and check the blood flow to the baby from the placenta.
   
• Fetal nuchal translucency
  £210.00.  We offer Down's syndrome screening using a combination of ultrasound assessment and measurement of the hormone levels in your blood. This test is called the 'Combined Test' for Down's syndrome and is the test recommended by the UK Nation Screening Committee. The test can be performed between 11 weeks and 13 weeks plus 6 days. Results from the test are typically available after 2-4 working days.