FAQ

What is a elective non-diagnostic ultrasound and How is it different from the ones performed at my doctor’s office?

Elective ultrasound is a non-diagnostic ultrasound performed by a highly experienced sonographer that will provide a personal experience and allow expecting mothers and family a healthy amount of time to view and form a connection with their unborn baby during a session that is completely dedicated to you in a comfortable, relaxing and intimate setting; you will receive images, videos and be able to watch your baby move, stretch, wiggle their fingers and toes and much more. This differs from the highly important and required routine diagnostic ultrasounds performed at your doctor’s office where the main focus is to assess the gestational age of the fetus and the fetal anatomy for abnormalities. Your OB sonographer performing the exam must pay close attention with no distractions. Therefore, they rarely have time to spend on taking images, videos or allowing moms to just watch their baby. Our services DO NOT replace the diagnostic ultrasound ordered by a healthcare provider, in fact, Itty Bitty Ultrasounds requires you to have established care with a healthcare provider prior to scheduling a session with our studio. Our purpose is to allow our clients and loved ones to experience baby and leave with memories that will last for years to come.

Is it safe? Are there any risks to me or my baby?

This is a great question. Yes, it is safe. over 30 years of extensive studies have found that ultrasound has NOT been shown to cause any harm to mother or baby, in fact, routine scanning of all pregnancies is now normal practice throughout the United States, for example; women who are categorized as High Risk may often have weekly ultrasound through the term of their pregnancy and is especially safe when performed by a trained and qualified sonographer.

What is the difference between 2D, 3D, 4D, and 5D/HD Live?

2D ultrasound is the traditional method used for years that provides black and white two- dimensional images typically used at our studio for gender determination, profile pictures, fetal movements, and much more. 3D ultrasound is an advanced method that is a still color image of your baby. 5D/HD adds flesh tones to baby's skin, often allowing the ability to see specific features. 4D or 4D Live is an actual moving 3D imaging of your baby allowing you to view actions such as yawning, turning, and other subtle movements.

Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor’s office?

It does NOT. Women seeking an elective non-diagnostic ultrasound at Itty Bitty Ultrasounds Studio must be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care and must undergo a medical diagnostic ultrasound to confirm their due date, screen for fetal abnormalities, and look for any other pregnancy-related issues, Our sessions are solely to provide our costumers with a memorable experience and no medical diagnosis will be given.

Do I need an appointment?

Yes, we are open by appointment only, therefore we are currently not accepting walk-in’s and it necessary to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at our studio. We encourage you to book your ultrasound 2–3 weeks ahead, as our schedule tends to fill well in advance

Are 3D/4D ultrasounds covered by insurance?

Unfortunately, insurance companies DO NOT cover elective non-diagnostic 3D/4D ultrasounds. Elective ultrasounds are intended solely for creating memories, keepsakes, and starting the bonding experience for expecting moms and loved ones before the baby is born. We accept cash and most major credit cards for our services.

Can I bring family and friends?

OF COURSE!! In fact, we encourage our clients to invite family and friends to attend, it is a wonderful bonding experience that can be shared with your loved ones.

How many people are allowed in the room?

Our room fits up 10 15 people comfortably, but you are welcome to bring as many people as you would like!

Will my exam be with a transvaginal or transabdominal probe?

We only use transabdominal probes at our facility.

What is earliest time I can see my baby via ultrasound.

5.5 weeks is the day that little heart starts to beat and is the earliest we can technically see baby on an transabdominal ultrasound. However, we usually recommend scheduling your early scan at 6.5 weeks or later. This is because several factors can affect what we’re able to see this early, including your uterus position and natural variations in ovulation. Even when your cycle is regular, ovulation can occur earlier or later than expected, which may change how far along you truly are.”

How should I prepare for my appointment?

It is beneficial to keep hydrated throughout your pregnancy in general for the well-being of mom and baby. Hydration also plays a large part in creating clear 3D/4D images to allow optimal imaging of your baby, so make we encourage you to drink a gallon of water a day every day two weeks leading up to your appointment. Do not eat a heavy meal up to 3 hours prior to your appointment as this may cause your little one to fall asleep. Try eating a snack or a light meal about an hour before your appointment is completely okay. Pay attention to when your baby is most active during the day and try to schedule your appointment during that time.

What if my baby is not in a good position to get good images during my scan?

We will always try our very best to provide you with the highest quality images but sometimes babies do not cooperate and other factors that are beyond our control may arise. Even with a well trained and very experienced sonographer, we are unable to capture the desired images. While we do not offer a refund, you will be invited back to our studio for a redo session at no cost to you. If necessary redo sessions will be discussed in greater detail during your visit as occasionally there are circumstances such as maternal body habitus, amniotic fluid levels, and fetal position that contribute to the inability to obtain images.

What is the best time during my pregnancy to schedule a 3D/4D Ultrasound?

Scheduling your 3D/4D session can be between 24 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. However, we recommend booking it between 27-30 weeks if possible! This is the golden time!

What are your cancellation and late policies?

We do take a $25 non-refundable deposit to schedule your ultrasound. We kindly ask if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment that you contact us before 72 hours prior so that we can make the necessary adjustments to our schedule. If you reschedule or cancel your appointment within 72 hours of your appointment, there is a $25 fee. No-shows will be charged a fee of $25.00. We ask that you keep your reschedules limited to 3 or less times. If you reschedule your appointment more than 3 times, we have the right to charge $25 per reschedule. Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your appointment to allow time to complete the necessary documents prior to the start of your session, If you know you will be late please contact us as soon as possible to make sure we can accommodate your appointment and assure you have enough time to have a fully enjoyable experience.