3D ultrasound scans are “still” colour pictures of your baby in three dimensions. 4D ultrasound scans are moving 3D images of your baby, with time being the fourth dimension. In other words, 3D scans are similar to the coloured photos you see in newspapers and magazines.

The ideal time to have a 3D or 4D scan is between 26 and 32 weeks. This is because, after 26 weeks the baby has more fat beneath the skin, which gives a more ‘real-life” image of your baby’s face/ body parts. After 32 weeks the baby may gets into more difficult positions to scan so technically may be more challenging. So sometimes, the face may not be well visualised.

3D and 4D scans are not routine scans and will be more expensive. They are known to give you a better bonding experience. From a medical point of view, the benefits of 3D and 4D scans over 2D scans appears to be limited to certain clinical conditions.

2D, 3D and 4D scanning is not radiation and considered safe for the fetus when performed by experts who understand the physics of the ultrasound machine. Most of the current ultrasound machines are approved by the FDA for fetal scanning within limits.