3D and 4D ultrasounds make it possible to monitor the progress of the pregnancy, monitor the baby’s development and identify possible anomalies. They take place in the same way, and must be carried out at the same stage of pregnancy, i.e. between 24 and 34 weeks of pregnancy, according to the Nîmes Association of Medical Imaging. They both make it possible to obtain realistic and particularly clear images of the fetus. But unlike 3D ultrasound, 4D ultrasound allows you to observe the movements and facial expressions of the fetus in real time.
1. 3D and 4D ultrasound: definition and interest
The deployment of 3D and 4D ultrasound has revolutionized the obstetric ultrasound sector. These two recent technologies allow parents and the doctor to visualize the baby in a particularly precise way. For the health professional, it is above all a question of checking that the pregnancy is going well, and that the fetus does not suffer from malformation or growth retardation. But 3D and 4D ultrasounds represent tremendous advances in aesthetic terms, compared to classic 2D ultrasound. They offer such beautiful images that they help to facilitate the construction of the parent-child bond. Even more efficient than the 3D examination, 4D ultrasound allows you to admire and follow the movements of the fetus, as well as the expressions of its face.
2. 3D and 4D ultrasound: identical procedure
To perform a 3D or 4D ultrasound, the doctor invites his patient to lie down comfortably, and applies gel to her stomach, in order to facilitate the transmission of sound waves. Then he equips himself with a transducer, which he moves over the mother-to-be’s stomach. This small device performs two functions: it generates ultrasound, and measures the echoes which are instantly transformed into images. These are projected on a screen and analyzed by the doctor. It is then possible to take photos and activate the 4D function to observe the baby in real time. At the end of the session, a written report is provided to the patient.
3. When to perform a 3D or 4D ultrasound?
According to the Instituto Bernabeu, 3D and 4D ultrasounds should not be carried out at any time, otherwise disappointing images will be obtained. To benefit from their full aesthetic potential, parents must use these technologies between 24 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. Furthermore, even at this stage, the result is not guaranteed. It requires several conditions, in particular a sufficient quantity of amniotic fluid, a good position of the fetus, and not too significant movements.
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