When is a good time for a 4D Ultrasound?

We recommend at least 29-32 weeks of gestation (26-28 weeks for twins!). At around 30 weeks, as babies are building more fat, more facial features can be seen. We do see women up to full term, but with variable results. More fat creates pudgy baby images, but the baby gets increasingly crowded at the end of term and may hide. 4D imaging depends upon the baby's position, size and movement, so we cannot guarantee image quality due to those factors. If the baby is uncooperative and we cannot acquire images of your baby, you do pay at the time services are rendered and invited back for another visit FREE of charge.

Why do you still offer two-dimensional (2D) Ultrasounds?

Two-Dimensional imaging is ideal for viewing heartbeat, real time fetal activity, hair (after 27 weeks) and gender. We perform regular ultrasounds any time after 17 weeks. We always include a regular ultrasound with 4-D as they work together to show a full picture of the baby's features and activity.

We refer to two-dimensional ultrasound as "regular" ultrasound because it is the standard technology used in prenatal care and and is familiar to our clients. Two-dimensional imagery solely displays height and width, generally appearing as an outline of the baby. The benefit of regular ultrasound is its ability to look "through" some obstacles, such as hands on the face. Also, the real-time movement shown in regular ultrasound can be recorded on your video.

What will determine the quality of the images?

Many factors are involved in obtaining clear images. We use state-of-the-art equipment and highly qualified technicians trained exclusively in obtaining images that are clear to non-technicians. We often find we are able to image even the shyest babies and we do our best under all circumstances. However, there are several factors outside of our control which will determine the quality of the images.

1. Fetal position: Some babies come ready for their close-up and seem to be posing at every turn. Others simply turn their back on us. Still others cuddle up to the placenta or uterine wall, or hide behind their hands (and feet). We know you particularly want to see your baby's face and we do all we can to encourage baby to turn our way. Particularly in 3-D and 4D, a straight-on face view is not very common. We urge you to enjoy the fun and sometimes funny positions your baby prefers rather than hold out for the glamour shot.

2. Fetal activity: It is fun to see the baby in motion in regular ultrasound and a little food or juice before your visit can assist in increasing baby's activity (no caffeine please! A little orange juice or lemonade should do the trick!). On the other hand, the best still 3-D photo results come when baby is asleep or still. Whether or not you have eaten, baby may sleep through the whole video, and then set us on a chase for the 3-D portion. As always, we encourage you to enjoy your baby's activity and we'll do our part to work with your baby.

3. Gestational development: In 3-D, some babies are best seen at 26 weeks and others at 36. Babies are simply different.

Will You Be Able to Determine The Gender of My Baby?

We either state gender or, if for any reason we cannot find the gender and you are after 17 weeks, we will invite you to return for a free second visit to determine gender.

What kind of training do your technicians receive?

Each First Glimpse technician is a certified ultasonographer trained through an accredited school of obstetrical ultrasound.

Do I Need a Note From My Provider to Visit First Glimpse?

No note is needed from your provider but we will need to know who it is for confirmation purposes. We are an optional service and do not replace any element of your prenatal care. If you have medical concerns we urge you to notify your health care provider.

Can I Have My Friends and Family With Me?

Anyone you want may join you for your experience at First Glimpse. Our rooms accommodate about six additional people in a warm, inviting environment.

How Long is a First Glimpse Session?

We schedule our appointments every hour, so our clients never seem hurried. Some sessions may last up to an hour if the fetal position becomes an issue. We never scan for an entire hour but we want to allow time for our client to eat or drink something and walk around hoping the fetal position will change to a more favorable one.

What Form of Payment Can I Use for First Glimpse?

We accept cash, checks, credit cards and debit cards.

Do I Need an Appointment?

Yes. An appointment is required

Does First Glimpse Take My Medical Insurance?

First Glimpse does not accept insurance as we are a supplemental service that does not replace your doctor's care. Please contact your physician if you have questions about insurance and ultrasound scans.

When Will I Get My First Glimpse Pictures and Video?

All pictures, videos, DVDs, etc. will be ready to take with you when you leave your appointment.