A 4D scan is a moving, real-time, live-action video of a baby in the womb that allows parents to see their unborn baby’s movements and facial expressions. At First Encounters, we offer our 4D scans to those between weeks 24 and 32 of their pregnancy, however best results are usually obtained earlier, between 26 and 29 weeks.
To find out why this is the ideal window for getting a 4D scan and to learn about factors that can affect your image quality, continue reading this blog!
Why Is There an Ideal Timeframe for 4D Scans?
There are many reasons why 26 to 29 weeks is the optimal window for 4D scans, these include:
Clear Facial Features
Although 4D scans are available from 24 weeks to a maximum of 32 weeks, the baby will only start to develop enough subcutaneous fat beneath the skin for them to have clear facial features and a more round and defined face at around 26 to 29 weeks. The baby may appear skeletal in any 4D scan images taken before this period.
Sufficient Amniotic Fluid
As your pregnancy progresses, the level of amniotic fluid surrounding your baby will decrease. This amniotic fluid works as a medium for sound waves during an ultrasound scan, allowing the ultrasound technician to generate images of your baby.
After 32 weeks of pregnancy, there will not be enough amniotic fluid present to generate clear 3D and 4D scans. This is why it is recommended that you book your 4D scan when you are around 26 to 29 weeks so that there is sufficient amniotic fluid to provide a clear pathway for the scan sound waves, allowing for better image quality.
Space to Move
At around 26 to 29 weeks, your baby still has room to move and change positions, increasing the chance of capturing a variety of beautiful images, such as your baby yawning or stretching. As your pregnancy advances, the baby will occupy more space, making it more difficult for them to turn to a position where the face can clearly be seen for your scan images.
Rescan Opportunities
Babies in the womb can occasionally be a bit camera-shy. In the unlikely event that we're unable to obtain a clear picture of your child, we can arrange a rescan date - but if you're already at 32 weeks, there is very little chance that we'll be able to get a clear picture when you come back for your rescan appointment. Booking your scan in the 26 to 29 week zone means we'll have plenty of time for a rescan if necessary!
Don’t Forget: Babies develop at different rates, so even if you got good results at 32 weeks the last time you were pregnant, the outcome may be different this time.
Plus, the advice in this blog is slightly different for those with a multiple pregnancy. When pregnant with multiple babies, there is less space in the womb to begin with and so for this reason, it is a good idea to book your 4D scan a little earlier!
What Other Factors Can Affect the Quality of a 4D Scan?
Even in the ideal time window, there are factors that can affect a 4D ultrasound image quality, for example:
Baby’s Position: If the baby is facing the back of the uterus, it will be difficult to capture a clear image. The placenta and umbilical cord can also obstruct the scan view.
Maternal BMI: A higher maternal body mass can also make it more difficult for the soundwaves to pass through, affecting the image quality.
Hydration: Staying hydrated can help to improve the quality of the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby, making it easier to get high-quality, clear scan images.
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If you are between 24 and 32 weeks pregnant and want to book a 4D ultrasound scan, look no further than our 4D scan option at First Encounters.
We offer a 4DGrowth&Wellbeing™ scan, which can be performed between 24 and 32 weeks of your pregnancy, with best results usually between 26 and 29 weeks.
To book a 4D scan with us at First Encounters, use the button below.
Book a 4D Scan
If you have any further questions about 4D scans, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today!
