Examining Different Types of Prenatal Imaging
2D Ultrasound, 3D Ultrasound, and 4D Ultrasound- How Do They Differ?
Sep 19, 2009
Prenatal imaging is a very common practice in obstetrician offices today. Most of these doctors have an ultrasound machine right in their building. While ultrasound images of unborn babies was once reserved for a hospital visit in the event that something was suspected to be wrong with the fetus, at least one routine prenatal image is now scheduled with each pregnancy.
In addition to the change of frequency of ultrasounds over the past years, the type of prenatal imaging used has also changed. Ultrasounds are most commonly offered in 2D, 3D, and 4D options. Doctors may use one or a combination of the three depending on the need. The time of the pregnancy, the purpose of the ultrasound, and the cooperation of the baby are all deciding factors of which image is used.
Benefits of Using 2D Prenatal Imaging
The 2D imaging process of viewing an unborn baby has been the most widely used for longest period of time. In this imaging, the baby is viewed in layers to examine fetal growth and health. Doctors check a variety of body functions with this method. The 2D ultrasound is the best option for use in the early stages of pregnancy. These early 2D ultrasounds are often the time that the mothers find out they are expecting twins.
How is 3D Imaging Different?
Most expectant mothers are very excited and anxious about the thoughts of having a 3D imaging session or gaining 3D image photos. Through 3D ultrasounds, the outside of the baby is viewed rather than layers. This is the closest image that is produced to a real photograph of the fetus. Besides giving a better view of what the baby looks like from the outer appearance, this imaging also allows the ultrasound technician to move around the baby for better viewing when the baby is not in a good position for a 2D image. These ultrasounds are better saved for later in the pregnancy when more physical features have developed.
What does 4D Ultrasound Mean?
A 4D ultrasound is basically a 3D ultrasound in motion. While the 3D is a still picture, the 4D ultrasound captures the baby in the same manner except for it displays the baby’s movement and actions such as kicking.
Mother Scheduled Ultrasounds
In addition to the one or more scheduled ultrasounds in the doctor’s office, some imaging facilities allow expectant mothers to schedule additional ultrasound sessions. These sessions are strictly based on the desire of the mother and are not covered by insurance plans. The mother can choose different session options such as the length of time, the amount of pictures, and videoing.
Prenatal imaging has drastically changed over the years. The reasons why and how doctors conduct ultrasounds have evolved. With this evolution, expectant mothers are gaining more information than many ever dreamed about their unborn child.
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