3D Ultrasound: A Better Look at Baby? Here's All You Need to Know

One of the most curious things about pregnancy is how seldom you get to see the little being growing inside you.

No wonder it’s tempting to get a 3D ultrasound to get a good view.

Several companies are offering this option to mamas-to-be.

But before you make an appointment to get that precious memento, it’s important to know what the risks are for you and your baby.

Let’s dive in.

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What is the difference between an ultrasound and a 3D ultrasound?

Whether 2D, 3D, 4D, or 5D, ultrasounds use sound waves to produce an image of your baby in your womb.

A regular ultrasound creates a flat image of your baby in 2D.

Most mamas-to-be have at least two of these during their pregnancy — an early pregnancy scan somewhere between 11 and 14 weeks, and a mid-pregnancy scan, usually between 18 and 21 weeks.

A 3D ultrasound uses the same technology as the 2D version.

It takes a bunch of 2D images from various angles and puts them together to form a 3D picture of your little one.

A 4D scan does the same but goes one step further — it also shows movement.

And while this all sounds quite magical, there are some risks.

Although ultrasounds are considered safe, there’s not enough evidence on what excessive exposure to this technology can do to you or your little one.

As a result, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not recommend having a 3D ultrasound just to make a keepsake out of it.

Ultrasounds expose your baby to heat, which could potentially put them at risk of producing small pockets of gas in their tissues.

Essentially, the long-term health consequences for your baby are still unknown.

That’s why doctors generally want to limit the number of ultrasounds you have.

A 3D sonogram should really only be used if there’s something to be concerned about and your doctor thinks it’s best to take a closer look.

The bottom line? 3D ultrasounds should only be done by trained medical professionals and for medical purposes.

What week is best for 3D ultrasound?

The best time for a 3D ultrasound is when (and if) your doctor recommends one.

This might happen if your doctor wants to monitor your baby for potential medical issues that can be better observed or diagnosed in 3D.

If you do have one, 3D ultrasounds tend to happen later in pregnancy, usually around the 30-week mark.

How much does it cost for a 3D ultrasound?

3D ultrasounds that are done by private companies range from $65 to $250.

It’s important to note that companies that offer these services for a souvenir picture of your little one usually can’t give you the same advice and information your doctor can about how your baby is doing.

Is a 3D ultrasound worth it?

It depends on why you’re getting one.

3D ultrasounds can be worth it if your doctor wants to monitor your baby more closely.

Medical conditions such as cleft lips may be able to be better diagnosed in 3D.

And this study showed that some facial markers that can be seen on a 3D scan may be early signs of Down syndrome.

But if you’re just looking for a picture of your little one, having an extra ultrasound scan may not be worth the extra risk for you and your baby.

You’ll have loads of chances to take beautiful photos of your peanut once they’re born.

We know the wait can feel long.

Join us on Peanut. You don’t have to go through it alone.