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Why Choose Us...
• The Latest Ultrasound Technology
• Clearer Imaging...
• Holistic Style Relaxed Environment
• 4D Images Projected on to 42” Plasma
• Family & Friends Are Welcome
• Qualified & Friendly Sonographer’s
• FREE Repeat 4D Scan if Unsuccessful
• All inclusive 3D/4D Ultrasound Package
• 15 min DVD with Ultimate 4D Package
• 1st Class Facilities & Competitive Price
• Our Unique HEARTBEAT BEAR !!!

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Q. What are 2D, 3D and 4D ultrasounds?

2D ultrasound is the traditional and original method of viewing a baby’s organs and skeletal features. Simply put, this method is what has been commonly used to view the prenatal progress. Today’s advanced technology with 3D ultrasound allows the viewing of the surface images of your baby, and with great detail. These images, known as sonograms, are produced with the same frequency sound waves used in the traditional 2D ultrasound.  These sonogram images are also produced in 4D ultrasound, a process that allows you to view your baby in motion, also known as real-time.

Q. What are the benefits and risks of ultrasound?

Benefits:

Ultrasound imaging is a painless procedure. It does not use x-rays or any other type of ionising radiation to produce an image. It is non-invasive. It can be used safely during pregnancy.

Ultrasound provides real time imaging, making it a good tool for guiding some invasive procedures such as needle biopsies. Ultrasound can visualise movement and function and therefore can examine blood vessels and blood flow to different organs.

Risks:

For standard diagnostic ultrasound there are no known harmful effects to humans.

Ultrasound has been used for medical diagnosis for over thirty years, during which time no adverse effects have been observed. Studies in animals and humans did not show any side effects of the use of diagnostic ultrasound.

For more information about the potential risks of ultrasound visit the The British Medical Ultrasound Society (BMUS) Web site. 

Q. When is the best time to come for my 3D/4D Scan?

For optimum results, we recommend that you visit our facility between 24 to 32 weeks when your baby is more developed.

Q. What type of equipment is used at First Encounters Ultrasound?

We use the most advanced, state-of-the-art 3D and 4D ultrasound imaging machine available, the GE Voluson i. Unlike inferior types of 3D/4D machines that have a much slower frame speed, the GE Voluson i provides unparalleled clarity. With First Encounters Ultrasound, you can be assured in the knowledge that your baby's movements won't appear "choppy" or stalled.

Q. Who performs the examination?

The examination is performed by an ultrasound practitioner. He or she is a qualified sonographer and/or radiographer experienced in ultrasound. All of our staff are highly qualified and very experienced practitioners who have worked for years in the NHS and the private sector.

Q. How should I prepare for the examination?

It is preferable to wear a comfortable, loose-fitting two-piece outfit for your scan. Our Sonographers would recommend a fizzy drink and a chocolate bar to assist with movement of the baby approximately 20 minutes prior to your appointment time

There are no general instructions for all ultrasound examinations. Different examinations require different preparations and we will give you the relevant instructions for your examination when your appointment is made.

Q. What happens during the examination?

An ultrasound examination is a painless procedure and there are no after effects. How the examination is done depends on what scan is required. Most ultrasound examinations are performed with the sonographer passing the transducer or probe over the area of interest and in contact with the skin. The patient is usually asked to lie on an examination bed and a clear water-soluble warm gel is applied to the skin to help the transducer slide easily across the skin and to get rid of air trapped on the skin which the sound waves cannot pass through. 

The ultrasound practitioner then presses the transducer against the skin and moves it to see the area of interest. Images of the area are seen instantaneously on the television monitor. In the ultrasound examination of the female pelvis, a trans-vaginal approach is the method of choice because it gives superior quality images. However, there are certain situations, including patient´s preference where a trans-vaginal scan may not be appropriate and the sonographer will always discuss what is required and listen to any concerns a patient may have. 

The ultrasound practitioner can explain the images displayed on the monitor to you and you may ask questions during the scan. The practitioner may ask you to take deep breaths in or move into different positions to obtain the best possible images.

Q. What happens if my baby is camera shy?

The position of your baby can on occasions be such that Gender Determination & 3D/4D imagery is difficult to achieve. On these occasions the Sonographer may ask you to take a gentle stroll to encourage movement of your baby before recommencing your scan. On the rare occasion your baby is still camera shy, you would be offered a complimentary re-scan visit on an alternate date. *T&C's apply

On the extremely rare occasion we are unable to obtain that which is required after your complimentary re-scan, the Sonographer will provide a professional opinion as to whether the desired result would be achievable through further scanning. We trust at such time you will appreciate we will have made every effort to achieve the desired result not withstanding issues beyond our control, and as such we hope you would agree any further elected scan would be chargeable.

Q. Do I need a full bladder?

If you are having a scan (less than 24 weeks) then it helps if your bladder is not completely empty before your scan, and we recommend that you have one cup of fluid before your appointment. However if you are having a scan after 24 weeks a full bladder is not essential.

Q. Can you scan for twins?

Yes.  But as you may know they get quite cozy in your womb and cuddle up to each other, so if you are considering a 4D scan, the best time would be between 22 & 26 weeks gestation. A multiple pregnancy surcharge does apply due to the additional scanning time required.

Q. Will my 3D/4D images turn out the way I expect?

We do our very best to get the best images we can. Each baby will scan differently, and we do everything we can to get the very best images possible. Baby is boss!  Sometimes baby can look away from us, or put their hands and feet up in front of their face. If we are not happy with the images or footage we have obtained for you, then we will book a complimentary rescan on an alternative date.

Issues that can make the image less than perfect include: reduced fluid around your babe; fuller figured mums-to-be; and the position of your baby.