Frequently Asked Questions
The 3D Ultrasound Center of Orlando is undeniably like no other facility in Orlando. From the moment you enter our center you will be taken on a journey of the pure pampering and enjoyment.
We understand that you have options when choosing an elective 3D ultrasound and 4D ultrasound center. Why choose us for your 3D & 4D ultrasound? To help put your mind at ease, here are some facts about The 3D Ultrasound Center of Orlando by Prenatal Impressions
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT & BETTER THAN THE REST?
Our experience! Our amazing and astonishing ability to capture only the best 3D/4D ultrasound of your baby! Our unparallel standards! The best experience! Superior technology!
There are multiple reasons why we are confident that we are the number one choice among mothers, physicians and celebrities, all of which have been listed on our “WHY CHOOSE US” page. We know that the best form of assurance are the words from our previous clients. Read their Raving Reviews to learn more about their experiences. Check out our gallery of 3D Ultrasounds and 4D Ultrasounds.
We assure you that we are the best! We Dare You to Compare!
1. What is an elective ultrasound?
Similar to other “elective” services offered in healthcare, the term “elective” generally is defined as optional and chosen. We offer 2D, 3D and 4D prenatal ultrasounds to provide a positive bonding experience for the mother, father and family members with the unborn baby. We feel that realistic surface images provide a connection between the parents and baby that can be beneficial to the whole family. We make no claims that 3-D as used in our services is performed to better assess the baby for abnormalities. A routine ultrasound examination should have already been performed to assess the gestational age of the fetus and to evaluate for fetal anomalies as well as the basic components of fetal anatomy recommended for screening.
2. Does this take the place of an ultrasound from my doctor?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound with the 3D Ultrasound Center of Orlando must already be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care and have already undergone a medical, diagnostic ultrasound ordered by their provider to confirm their due date, screen for fetal anomalies, and/or to look for any other pregnancy related issues. The issues that we are evaluating in the ultrasound session that we provide do not validate or provide any medical information. Our employees are not responsible to provide any diagnostic scans to confirm heartbeat, the number of babies in the pregnancy, the position of the baby or the placental location. Through our ForLife Imaging division, we offer diagnostic ultrasounds. Please call us for additional details or to schedule your diagnostic ultrasounds appointment.
3. Is it safe? Is there any harm to my or my baby?
Extensive studies over 30 years have found that ultrasounds has not been shown to cause any harm to mother or baby. Routine scanning of all pregnancies is now normal throughout the United States . In 3D/4D scanning exactly the same type and intensity of ultrasound is used as with conventional 2D scanning. 3D and 4D Ultrasound both utilize sound waves to look inside the body. The technology is similar to radar. A probe placed on the body emits sound waves into the body, listens for the return echo and generates an image. 4D Ultrasound will be similar to a conventional scan in terms of exposure.
The greatest risks arising from the use of ultrasound are the possible over usage by inadequately trained staff and using poor equipment. The 3D Ultrasound Center of Orlando works with only trained and experienced individuals who have been trained specifically for obtaining quality images and video while maintaining a set of standards to assure the safety of the fetus and the mother. We also use only a state-of-the-art 3D/4D Ultrasound machine, a GE Voluson 730. You can rest assured that we are dedicated to your safety and always follow strict standards of practice. If you have any concerns about receiving a 3D Ultrasound, we suggest that you consult with your physician, nurse practitioner or midwife in which you are under care.
To read details of the studies on the affects on the use of ultrasound on a fetus, please visit www.ob-ultrasound.net. Click here to read a study now.
4. Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services. We recommend that you schedule your appointment as soon as you know you’d like to come. We recommend that you schedule your appointment at least one week in advance, especially if you desire a Friday or Saturday appointment. There may be same day appointments available. Please call us to check for same day availability. Click here to Book Your Appointment Now.
5. What do we need to schedule an appointment?
As stated in Our Standards, we require evidence that you are under prenatal care. Bring in any documentation from a prior doctors visit that provides proof that you have seen a physician at the time of your pregnancy. In addition, because of the high demand of our services, we require a valid credit card (Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express, debit cards with Visa/Master Card logo or any major credit card) to reserve your appointment. All online appointments requires payment be made at the time of you selecting and booking your appointment. Any appointment request made with our online appointment system without making payment is not confirmed. You will receive an email confirming your appointment once payment has been processed.
6. How do I schedule an appointment?
You can easily schedule your appointment online by selecting “Book Appointment” located on the left column of each page. at the top left menu. The best method to schedule an appointment would be to call our office at (407) 521-8390.
7. How long does my appointment last?
Depending on the package you choose, the 3D/4D ultrasound session will last between 10 and 30 minutes. The entire appointment from arrival and completing all the necessary registration form may last up to 45 minutes from start to finish.
8. How far along should I be for a 3D/4D ultrasound?
We would recommend having the 3D/4D ultrasound performed between the 26th and 34th week of the pregnancy for a single visit. However, excellent images of your baby can be obtained anytime after about 24 weeks of pregnancy, even after 36 weeks. Expectant mothers that are full-figured should consider scheduling their 3D/4D ultrasound between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy, as the ultrasound tends to be clearer and the results more desirable and comparable to the images in our picture gallery.
Special Note: If you are expecting twins or multiples, the best time for 3D/4D ultrasound is between 22-30 weeks. This allows for a greater chance of capturing interaction between the babies. Please check our calendar to determine the best time to have your 3D/4D ultrasound sessions.
9. Will I get great photos of my baby?
It is our priority to provide you with the best images with the given circumstances, guaranteed! We are usually able to obtain the best 3D/4D ultrasounds of your baby, however, there are certain circumstances which hinder our ability to secure the best images for you. If the baby is persistently looking face down (towards your spine), it may be difficult to see baby’s face. If this happens, trying again within the hour will usually be successful because the baby has had time to turn to a more favorable position. We cannot make any promises that the images will be similar to those you might have seen elsewhere or even from our own facility, or that we can always meet everyone’s expectations, but it is our goal to assure that you are completely satisfied with the service that we have provided.
10. What can I do to improve the quality of my 3D/4D ultrasound?
DRINK PLENTY OF WATER!!! We do not require that you have a full bladder, however, we do ask that you follow the guidance of your prenatal care provider regarding hydrating throughout your pregnancy. Hydration can significantly improve the clarity of an ultrasound. The ability to obtain a good 3D picture is nevertheless still very much dependent on operator skill, the amount of amniotic fluid around the fetus and fetal position.
11. What if my baby is not in a favorable position?
We do not have any control on how the baby will act during an ultrasound, or what position the baby will be when you come to our office. However, rest assured, we make every effort to obtain the best quality photos there can possibly be in the given situation! If the photos can not be obtained within your scheduled appointment, we will reschedule you for between one (1) to two (2) other appointments at no additional charge. Because services are rendered, we do not provide any refunds, hence the reason we provide additional appointments at no additional charge.
12. Can I bring my family and friends?
Yes! In fact, we encourage our clients to invite family and friends to attend their 3D/4D ultrasound session. This is a joyous and wonderful experience, one that can be shared with your family and loved ones. We can comfortably accommodate 10+ people in Our Ultrasound Room. Our seating and additional monitors is arranged so that you and your guests will have an excellent opportunity to see 3D images and live 4D movement of the baby.
13. Are you able to determine the baby’s gender?
Yes. If you are at least 14 weeks – with 100% accuracy. The earliest we can determine the gender of your baby is 12 weeks. We can’t however guarantee that the baby will cooperate during your session. Certain factors such as fetal position, amniotic fluid level, and the developmental all affect the ability to determine sex. If that is the case we will have you to return at NO additional charge. We are the only facility in Central Florida that can provide you with an accurate gender determination as early as 14 weeks.
14. What type of ultrasound machine do you use?
We use the state of the art technology – the GE Voluson 730 to complete all ultrasound exams. The GE Voluson 730 has been shown in TV commercials and featured in many articles from around the world, and is the best ultrasound machine to perform 3D/4D live-motion imaging. Please note, many centers claim to use state-of-the-art equipment, when in fact they use older, inferior technology or do software upgrades for 3D and 4D configuration. This compromises the quality of images.
15. Does insurance cover 3D/4D ultrasounds?
At this point, insurance DOES NOT cover the costs of our elective 3D/4D ultrasounds. Since this is a procedure and is not intended to be a replacement for your doctor ordered ultrasound, you will need to pay the cost of this ultrasound as an out of pocket expense. We accept cash and all major credit cards including Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, debit cards with a Visa or Master Card logo. If your prenatal care provider requires a Diagnostic 3D/4D ultrasound, your insurance provider may cover the cost. However, we recommend that you consult with a representative from your insurance company.
16. Do your photos fade?
We strive to provide the highest quality. We do not use any products that all “carbon-like” or fade with exposure to heat or light. We use high lab quality photo paper with dye sublimation printing which provides longevity. No ink jet printers that may become damaged by water or oily fingers.
17. What is your cancellation policy?
The 3D Ultrasound Center of Orlando has a flexible and fair cancellation policy. If you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment for any reason, we ask that you please give us 48-hours notice. We reserves the right to charge a $50.00 fee or the full package price for clients who cancel less than 48-hours prior to their appointments. We also reserve the right to charge the full package value (plus any billing agency or administrative fees) for clients who fail their appointments without any notification whatsoever. We provide you with several confirmation/reminders and as you provide us with the courtesy if you wish to cancel or reschedule.