Ultrasounds
Ultrasounds are essential to prenatal care. Our providers at Summit Women’s Health are experts at interpreting ultrasound results, so many women in Princeton, West Virginia choose to have their prenatal ultrasounds with us by their side. If you are not pregnant, your provider may also recommend an ultrasound for the diagnosis and treatment of other health issues, such as early cancer detection.
What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a sonar for the body. The medical device uses high-frequency sound waves to look at internal organs and structures from outside the body. Anything from the heart, blood vessels, liver, or pelvis can be examined with an ultrasound, making it a non-intrusive way to check on your health or the health of your baby.
What are the different types of ultrasounds?
There are three common types of ultrasounds used at Summit Women’s Health: transabdominal, transrectal, and transvaginal.
A transabdominal ultrasound uses a small device to examine the uterine wall and look for fibroids.
A transrectal ultrasound uses a small device shaped for the rectum to examine localized complications or irregularities.
A transvaginal ultrasound uses a device shaped for the vagina to search for complications concerning fertility or pregnancy.
Why do I need an ultrasound?
Ultrasounds are a way to view the uterus, ovaries, and fetus to check on the pregnancy’s progress and catch any complications. Summit Women’s Health providers also use ultrasounds for our gynecology patients. They are helpful for diagnosing gallbladder disease, evaluating blood flow, examining breast lumps, and checking for cancer or genital and prostate abnormalities.
What are the risks of an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is an extremely safe procedure that uses low-power sound waves to create an image. Rest assured, there are no known risks for using ultrasounds on the human body.
How do I prepare for my upcoming ultrasound?
Ultrasounds are easy to prepare for with little to no preparation required. Some specific examinations may require not eating or drinking for up to 6 hours prior to the exam. Pelvic ultrasounds may require a full bladder to result in clear images. Your Summit Women’s Health provider may ask that you drink a large amount of water before the exam and avoid urinating until the exam is complete.
3D/4D Ultrasounds
Summit Women’s Health goes the extra mile with ultrasounds, also offering 3D and 4D models with digital pictures of each result sent via text message. 3D/4D ultrasounds give expectant parents a closer look at their new little one. See a three-dimensional image of your baby (3D) or watch a live video (4D).
Advanced imaging helps new parents observe developing features or capture special moments, like a tiny smile or yawn, that will be cherished for a lifetime. 3D/4D ultrasounds also give your provider a better look to identify health concerns or birth defects that may not show up on other types of imaging.
What 3D/4D ultrasound packages are available at Summit Women’s Health?
See your baby grow with one of Summit Women’s Health’s 3D/4D ultrasound packages. All sessions include black and white prints, as well as digital copies sent straight to your phone or email address. Packages include:
Boy or Girl package — $50: One scan at 14 weeks, plus one repeat scan if the gender isn’t visible on the first attempt.
See Me Grow package — $60: Two sessions total, one at 10 and one at 20 weeks with 2D and 3D ultrasound.
Starting to Look Like…? package — $60: 1 session during the 28 to 33 week range with 2D, 3D, and 4D imaging.
Now Then Wow package — $150: Three sessions at 22 weeks and up that will feature 2D, 3D, and 4D imaging.
Combo offer — See Me Grow and Now Then Wow packages: $190.
When is the best time to have my 3D/4D ultrasound?
This all depends on what you are hoping to see. Before 22 weeks, most babies still look like a “fetus,” not demonstrating many specific features, but nevertheless, it’s still exciting to see your baby growing and moving. Between 22 and 27 weeks, we can see your baby as a whole, with some small characteristics starting to form. Later, around 28 to 34 weeks, we can see a more detailed face.
For most expectant parents, the best time is between 28 and 32 weeks, when your baby has developed some fat so you can really start to see what he or she looks like. After 34 weeks, it can become more difficult to obtain good pictures since your baby is running out of room. However, all babies are different, and the providers at Summit Women’s Health have been successful in obtaining great images up to 39 weeks.
What can I do to prepare for my 3D/4D ultrasound to help ensure quality images?
3D/4D images are best when you are hydrated. Please remember to drink plenty of water because good fluid levels are essential in obtaining pictures of your baby. (But don’t forget, you’ll want to drink plenty of water every day, not just the day of your appointment.)
Also, we recommend that you eat or drink something naturally sugary or sweet 10 to 15 minutes before your session (unless you are under special dietary restrictions). This tends to wake your baby up and give you a better chance for different views!
Will I always get a “perfect” picture of my baby?
Usually, but not always. There are many factors that influence image quality, including fetal position, amount of amniotic fluid, and the amount of maternal tissue. Our providers promise to make every effort to obtain the best possible pictures of your baby. If your baby remains “uncooperative” throughout your entire session, it may be necessary to repeat the scan at a later date when the position has changed. This is at the discretion of the sonographer and is of course, free of charge. It’s important to Summit Women’s Health for you to be happy with your images, and we encourage you to share any concerns with us prior to leaving your session.
Is the 3D/4D ultrasound safe for me and my baby?
Ultrasounds have been performed and studied for 30 + years, during which time no evidence has shown any harm to the baby or mother. The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) officially states, “No confirmed biological effects on patients or instrument operators caused by exposure at intensities typical of present diagnostic ultrasound equipment have ever been reported.”
Summit Women’s Health abides by FDA guidelines regarding the recommended time limits for ultrasounds and scanning duration.
Is the 3D/4D imaging session covered by my insurance?
Unfortunately, due to the nature of this ultrasound, insurance companies do not cover the cost of the 3D/4D imaging session, as they are considered elective. Payment is expected at the time of your appointment. Summit Women’s Health accepts cash, checks, debit cards, and credit cards. We also have gift certificates available.
Can I bring guests to my 3D/4D imaging session?
Of course! Your friends and family members are always welcome. This appointment is for your pleasure, and we want you to enjoy the special experience.
How long does the 3D/4D imaging session take?
Usually, the 3D/4D imaging session at Summit Women’s Health lasts around 30 minutes, but plan to spend up to an hour in case your baby is a bit “uncooperative.”
We look forward to experiencing this special moment with you. To book your ultrasound at Summit Women’s Health in Princeton, West Virginia, with Brandon M. Lingenfelter, DO, PhD; Megan Lingenfelter, PA; Sam Snyder, DO; or Valeah Bradshaw, NP, call us at (681) 282-5591 or book an appointment online.