What is a 3D ultrasound?<\/h3>\n
Like 2D ultrasounds, 3D ultrasounds use sound waves to transmit images of your baby to a monitor to show the developmental details of the fetus. An ultrasound technician moves a wand-shaped transducer over your abdomen to capture these images.<\/p>\n
However, 3D images capture many different flat, two-dimensional angles of your baby and combine them into one image that shows the three-dimensional details of your baby\u2019s anatomy, including facial features.<\/p>\n
Health Canada<\/a> states that 2D and 3D ultrasounds are safe when performed by a trained sonographer or ultrasound technician.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s a breakdown of how 3D ultrasounds differ from the 2D version:<\/p>\n It\u2019s important to note that 2D ultrasounds are just as effective as 3D ultrasounds at clearly showing fetal development and growth\u2014which is why they are still used as the imaging standard today.<\/p>\n If you have already had a 2D ultrasound, you may want to review the report before deciding whether to invest in a 3D ultrasound. PocketHealth<\/a> offers fast, easy online access to ultrasound imaging and reports. Access your records here.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n 3D ultrasounds are known for providing a very detailed view of your baby\u2019s facial features, which may be one of the reasons expectant parents choose to do this type of scan in addition to their regularly scheduled 2D ultrasounds.<\/p>\n Under special circumstances, medical practitioners may also recommend a 3D ultrasound to capture detailed images of your baby if they need more visual information about certain developmental abnormalities.<\/p>\n In these cases, 3D ultrasounds can give your practitioner additional information about:<\/p>\n Example of a 3D ultrasound image<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n 3D ultrasounds can be performed at any time but they are usually done during the third trimester. Since 2D ultrasounds give your practitioner the same information about your baby’s health as 3D ultrasounds, your practitioner may not recommend a 3D ultrasound, except in rare instances.<\/p>\n A 3D ultrasound can also determine the sex of your baby between 16 and 20 weeks, but your practitioner will have already ordered a traditional 2D prenatal ultrasound during that time, which provides the same information.<\/p>\n Between weeks 24 and 36 is the best time to get a 3D ultrasound if you want a chance to see your baby’s features clearly and show their adorable face to your friends and family!<\/p>\n By 28 weeks, your baby will be able to retain enough fluid to showcase the shadows and planes of their facial features. But farther along in the third trimester, fluid around the face may begin to dissipate, making it hard to capture tiny details. As your pregnancy continues, there will also be less room in your womb, making it more difficult to get a clear view of your baby.<\/p>\n It can feel like there’s a lot of information to consider when deciding whether to get a 3D ultrasound, but reviewing these pros and cons can help you make the best choice.<\/p>\n Pros of a 3D ultrasound<\/strong><\/p>\n Cons of a 3D ultrasound<\/strong><\/p>\n It is important to do some research when deciding which 3D ultrasound clinic to visit. Before deciding, consider the following:<\/p>\n OHIP doesn\u2019t cover the cost of a 3D ultrasound, but it does cover the cost of 2D ultrasounds. Some private insurance companies may cover part or all of the cost of additional imaging. This is because 2D ultrasounds are just as effective at providing the information your practitioner typically needs throughout your pregnancy journey and are the recognized standard of care across Ontario.<\/p>\n The price of a 3D ultrasound in Toronto depends on the clinic but can be as high as $300 for multiple scans. Many clinics also offer free re-booking if your baby is not in an ideal position to capture images.<\/p>\n You can prepare for a 3D ultrasound appointment the same way you would for any 2D ultrasound, by:<\/p>\n You\u2019ll also want to ask some important questions when making your 3D ultrasound appointment, such as:<\/p>\n Most 3D ultrasound clinics have their own methods of sharing your ultrasound images, but by uploading your images into PocketHealth<\/a> you can have all your pregnancy imaging in one place. Your 2D ultrasound images can be stored together with your 3D ultrasound images so you can easily see how your baby is growing and developing. Access your records here.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Remember that the technician who gave you the ultrasound is not equipped to answer questions about your health or your baby’s health, so don\u2019t forget to follow up with your practitioner if you have any concerns.<\/p>\n 3D ultrasounds can give you and your loved ones an incredible glimpse of your new baby. They can also provide supporting visual information and may be suggested by your practitioner in addition to 2D scans under certain circumstances. Note that standard 2D ultrasounds are just as effective as 3D ultrasounds at providing your practitioner with information about the health of your baby.<\/p>\n If you decide to get a 3D ultrasound, remember that it\u2019s not covered under OHIP, so there will be a cost for the appointment and subsequent images. To make sure you enjoy the exciting experience of seeing your baby in detail, research how to prepare for your appointment ahead of time, including questions you can ask when booking your appointment.<\/p>\nWhat is the difference between a 2D ultrasound and a 3D ultrasound?<\/h4>\n
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What does a 3D ultrasound show?<\/h3>\n
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When to get a 3D ultrasound<\/h3>\n
What week is best for a 3D ultrasound?<\/h4>\n
Pros and cons of a 3D ultrasound<\/h3>\n
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How to choose a 3D ultrasound clinic in Toronto<\/h3>\n
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How much is an ultrasound in Toronto?<\/h3>\n
How to prepare for your 3D ultrasound appointment<\/h3>\n
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How do I access my 3D ultrasound images?<\/h3>\n
What does a 3D ultrasound show?<\/h4>\n
3D ultrasounds: an additional imaging option<\/h3>\n
How PocketHealth works<\/h3>\n