3D/4D Private pregnancy scans: See your baby in more detail

Pregnancy is an exciting time, full of anticipation and milestones. One of the most memorable experiences for expecting parents is seeing their baby on an ultrasound scan. While traditional 2D scans offer invaluable medical insights, 3D and 4D baby scans provide something extra: a detailed glimpse of your baby’s features, movements, and expressions before they’re born. In the UK, these scans are increasingly popular for parents wanting a keepsake of their baby’s journey in the womb.  At Fusion Healthcare these scans can be performed 18 weeks. As these scans are not offered on the NHS, may parents opt for a private 3D/4D scan to see more of their baby.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what 3D and 4D baby scans are, how they differ from traditional scans, and what to expect when you book one.

What is a private 3D/4D baby ultrasound scan?

4D baby scans, otherwise known as 3D baby scans, are a great advancement in modern medicine and technology. Cutting-edge ultrasound technology means expecting parents can now witness their baby’s movements and expressions in stunning detail. This experience allows you to have pictures of your baby with more detail than the 2D pictures obtained from progress ultrasound scans throughout pregnancy. A 3D/4D ultrasound scan is a type of specialised ultrasound imaging that provides real-time three-dimensional images of the foetus in the womb. This form of scanning has the added dimension of time allowing the baby to be seen moving in real-time. Unlike traditional 2-dimentional imaging, 3D/4D imaging allows parents to see their baby’s movements, facial features, and gestures in greater detail.

Traditional 2D ultrasound scans associated with pregnancy ultrasounds are valuable in providing valuable insight into foetal development but they often lack the depth and clarity to truly capture the essence of the unborn child. Enter 4D baby scans, where time becomes the fourth dimension, allowing parents to see their baby's movements in real-time. From delicate kicks to tiny yawns, these scans offer an intimate look into the life growing within the womb. Captured images provide a look at your baby in 3D and allows you to have a picture of their features and expressions. 

Why Do Parents Choose 3D and 4D Scans?

While 3D and 4D scans are not typically necessary for medical purposes, they offer several benefits that attract expecting parents:

• Bonding Experience: Seeing your baby’s face and movements in such detail allows you to feel even more connected. Some parents describe it as an early introduction to their baby’s personality.
• Reassurance: Although these scans are not primarily diagnostic, many parents find them reassuring. Watching your baby move and seeing them look healthy and content can ease anxiety during pregnancy.
• Keepsakes: Many clinics offer a variety of keepsake options, including printed images, digital copies, and video recordings. Some even create 3D-printed models of your baby’s face based on the scan data.
• Family Involvement: 3D and 4D scans are a great way to include family members in the pregnancy journey. Many parents bring their partner, children, or grandparents along to share the experience. It’s a chance to gather around and bond with the baby before they arrive.

Why have a private 3D/4D baby scan?

In the UK, 3D and 4D scans are not typically provided by the NHS as part of routine prenatal care. The NHS focuses on standard 2D ultrasound scans, such as the 12-week dating scan and the 20-week anomaly scan, which are designed to check your baby’s development and screen for certain conditions.

However, 3D or 4D scans can be accessed through private clinics, where they are considered elective or non-medical scans. Private scans are readily available across the UK, with many clinics offering flexible appointment times, including evenings and weekends. At Fusion Healthcare, 3D/4D baby scans are typically performed during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, after 18 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage, the baby's features are more defined, and they are often more active, allowing for a clearer and more dynamic visualization of their movement.

How Are 3D and 4D Scans Performed?

The process for a 3D or 4D scan is very similar to a standard 2D ultrasound, but with specialised equipment to produce the enhanced images.

The Procedure:

• Preparation: You’ll likely be asked to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the scan to ensure clear images. A well-hydrated body helps improve the quality of the ultrasound.
• During the Scan: The sonographer will apply gel to your abdomen and use a handheld probe to capture the images. You’ll be able to watch the scan in real time on a screen.
• Length of Scan: Most 3D/4D scan appointments last between 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the package you choose and how cooperative your baby is during the session.
• Post-Scan: After the scan, you’ll be given the option to take home still images, videos, and in some cases, even a USB or DVD copy of the experience. Many clinics also offer keepsake items like photo frames or heartbeat bears with your baby’s heartbeat recorded.

3D and 4D baby scans offer an amazing way to connect with your baby before they are born. For many parents in the UK, these scans create cherished memories, allowing them to see their baby’s face and movements in breath-taking detail. Whether you’re looking for reassurance, bonding, or a special keepsake, these advanced scans can add a magical layer to your pregnancy journey.

If you’re considering a 3D or 4D scan, do your research to find a reputable clinic near you and plan your appointment during the optimal window for the best results. While not medically necessary, they offer a special glimpse into your baby’s world—one that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Visit the Fusion Healthcare website for more information on available Private ultrasound scans.