First Trimester Ultrasound w/ 3D and 4D

What Can I Expect During My Ultrasound in NJ?

Ultrasound imaging involves the use of a small transducer and gel that is placed over the maternal abdomen, which then emits inaudible sound waves to render an image of the fetus and its surrounding structures, such as amniotic fluid amount and placenta. Ultrasound has NO radiation and is safe. The procedure is painless for both the mother and fetus and helps our team to evaluate your baby’s growth and development and monitor your pregnancy.

You should not experience any pain during your ultrasound, though you may feel pressure while the sonographer presses the probe to your belly. This is not harmful to you or your baby. The test usually takes about 30 minutes – 60 minutes to complete, depending on the type of evaluation being performed.

Are Ultrasounds Safe?

Current evidence indicates that diagnostic ultrasound (2D, 3D, and 4D) is safe for both the mother and her developing fetus. As ultrasound uses sound waves, it is not radiation (like x-rays and CT scans, for example) and therefore the known risks of repeated radiation exposure do not apply. We utilize the ALARA principle in keeping exposures as low as possible, and obstetrical ultrasounds are not performed repeatedly unless they are medically indicated.

There do exist some facilities that will perform non-medical ultrasounds to determine fetal gender and provide “keepsake” photos. It is important to understand that the FDA discourages the use of obstetrical ultrasound for non-medical purposes such as fetal keepsake videos and photos. We know that many patients want pictures of their baby’s face, bodies, hands, or feet as mementos. We do our best to get those images for you, as time and individual situations such as your baby’s position and maternal habitus permit.