3D & 4D Ultrasound Scans in London

Need to know

• What happens icon plus

  Ultrasound scans are painless ways to build detailed images of your baby inside your womb. They can be used to: - estimate when your baby is due (estimated date of delivery or EDD) - check if you are expecting more than one baby - show the position of your baby and the placenta (organ that links your blood supply to the baby) - detect if there are any abnormalities - make sure your baby is growing normally A specially trained sonographer will put some gel on your tummy and pass a probe over your skin. A black and white picture of your baby will then appear on the screen. The process takes about 20-30 minutes and there are no side effects.

• How to prepare icon plus

  Your consultant will explain the ultrasound scan to you and answer any questions you might have. Scans are simple procedures and generally you don’t need to do anything before your appointment. Sometimes, it is helpful if your bladder is full before the scan as this helps to get clearer images of your baby. This is because a full bladder lifts your bowel allowing the scan’s sound waves reach your womb. Your consultant will advise you if this is necessary. You are welcome to bring your partner, a family member or a friend along to your scan.

• Afterwards icon plus

  After your scan, your sonographer will be able to answer any questions you have. They will talk to you about the scan and advise you on the next steps. You'll be given a DVD and CD with images of your baby that you can take home and share with your family and friends. If a problem is suspected or found during the scan, your sonographer may ask for a second opinion from another member of staff. You might be asked to come back for further tests. Your consultant will be on hand to discuss with you the results of any tests or scans and give you all the information you need.