The Benefits Of 4D Ultrasound Technology In Pregnancy
Of course it does all the things 2D and 3D technology does. I can determine how old the baby is, the developmental stage of the fetus, check for multiple pregnancies, detect problems in the uterus, detect placenta abnormalities and the location of the placenta, Spot abnormal bleeding, detect ectopic pregnancies, and find fibroids or ovarian tumors.
Now that in itself is a pretty impressive list but the older units are capable of all of those elements so why is everyone so excited about this new technology?
As a mother to be you are thrilled to see your baby at all stages from the spec on the screen to that kicking baby that's just waiting to enter the world. And that's one reason why so many mom's to be are excited about having the ultrasound done.
Because the 4D images are live studies have indicated that there is an increased bonding experience with baby and thus mom goes that extra mile to eat right, exercise properly, reduce risks such as drinking or smoking, and overall take better care of herself. It's also proven to be very beneficial to dad and to other siblings drawing all family members closer.
What's the big difference between 3D and 4D? 3D uses the same machine as 2D images use. 2D looks at the baby in layers while 3D looks at the surface of the baby. 4D means motion has been added so you could refer to it as 3D live if you like.
2D is used in the earlier stages up to 20 weeks as a diagnostic tool. 3D shows only the outside of the baby and is used to diagnose specific conditions such as cleft lip which cannot be picked up with 2D images.
4D technology is used from 24 to 34 weeks. Before the 24 week mark baby isn't developed enough for it to really be beneficial. From weeks 27 to 34 baby has some fat so looks like an infant moving around, and there is still room to move around so images are excellent. After 34 weeks baby is probably too tight to be moving much and is likely moving into the birthing position so the images aren't overly impressive.
The reason the amount of room baby has to move is so important is because that's what the 4D imagining is all about. Hands and fingers moving, toes curling, and even facial movement. It's great!
Can you get great quality images? Generally yes but there are some factors that affect how good the images are.1. Amniotic fluid - the amount of fluid affects the quality of the image because the sound waves have to travel through the fluid. The more fluid around baby the clearer your images will be.2. Placenta - You have no control over where the placenta sits. If it is in the front it can block your baby's face because the sound waves aren't able to penetrate the placenta.3. Body Size- The size of mom makes a difference. A more full figured woman will produce grainer images then a smaller framed woman.4. Baby Position - Again a factor you don't have a lot of control over. If your baby is facing your spine you'll get a picture of the back of the head. A little bit of coaxing can often reposition the baby if there is enough fluid.5. Facilities - the quality of the images is also affected by the level of expertise of the technician and the quality of the equipment being used by the facility.
That first glimpse of your baby's nose, mouth, or eyes where you can see the full shape of the face and even see facial movement is one of those �priceless� moments that you aren't likely to forget.
This noninvasive technology is one of the safest around to monitor baby and quickly discover issues that may be life threatening, or may need addressing. It's also a great way to reassure mom that everything is fine.
The trouble is that there is some studies that are showing that there is infact some risks associated with ultrasounds and although the benefits far exceed those risks since they are suspected to be at the DNA level one should always minimize your baby's exposure and use only as needed for medical purposes.
Want to see just how much difference there is between a 2D and 4D image? There are some excellent examples available online. There's not question that the detail on the 4D is hard to beat and there's no question that it instantly connects you.
Although not available at all facilities if 4D ultrasound technology is important to you you'll want to check around for a facility in your area. You'll be glad you did!