Like regular ultrasounds, 3D and 4D ultrasounds use sound waves to create an image of your baby in your womb. What’s different about 3D ultrasounds is that it creates a three-dimensional image of your baby, while 4D ultrasounds create a live video effect just like a movie, but in this one you’re watching your baby yawn or smile.
For an abdominal ultrasound, you’ll lie down and a technician will put a certain gel on your belly. This helps carry the sound waves. The technician will then hold a probe against your belly and move it around to get an image.
Parents often want 3D or 4D ultrasounds because they let you see your baby’s face for the first time. Similarly, some doctors like 3D and 4D ultrasounds because it’s sometimes easier to show certain birth defects, such as cleft palate, that might not show up on a standard ultrasound.
With the 4D baby scans, you are able to see the foetus in extraordinary lifelike detail, especially in the later stages of pregnancy when you can see the foetus behave in a similar manner to a newborn baby. With 3D and 4D baby scan technology, you can see the foetus smile, yawn, suck on his or her fingers, scratch his or her nose and exhibit many other behaviours of a newborn baby.
However, it’s important to note that excessive exposure to any ultrasound may not be good for your baby. Consult your doctor to find out more about 3D and 4D ultrasound procedures and to assess whether it’ll have any adverse effects on your child!