The Benefits of a 3D Ultrasound Vs 2D

As part of your pregnancy, you can expect to undergo a number of diagnostic tests that monitor the health of both you and your growing baby. One of the most anticipated tests for many parents-to-be is the ultrasound, a painless imaging test that gives you the first glimpse of your child.

Ultrasounds also provide valuable information that Dr. Fozouni uses to assess the growth and development of your baby. Ultrasound imaging provides a closeup visual of your baby and your uterus, allowing Dr. Fozouni to evaluate factors such as:

• Baby’s heart rate
• Amniotic fluid levels
• Position of the baby
• Structural abnormalities
• Health of your reproductive organs

Ultrasounds also make it possible for you to know your baby’s gender and see their first movements before they are even born.

Traditionally, 2D ultrasounds are used to medically monitor your pregnancy. This type of technology uses sound waves to produce flat, two-dimensional images of your baby in-utero. Dr. Fozouni also offers newer technology, the 3D ultrasound, which produces enhanced images of your baby in real-time.

Benefits of a 3D ultrasound

Three-dimensional ultrasounds offer a life-like look at your baby’s features and movements using a series of images to create a moving picture.

For medical purposes, Dr. Fozouni may use 3D ultrasound technology to evaluate the health of your pregnancy and identify issues, such as birth defects, like cleft lip, and structural abnormalities in the heart or other organs.

The 3D ultrasound technology provides clearer, more accurate imaging of your baby’s development, helping Dr. Fozouni to better identify pregnancy complications as early as possible. Although a 2D ultrasound is still the gold standard in gestational care, a 3D ultrasound provides additional visual information to more accurately diagnose potential pregnancy risks.

A 3D ultrasound can also be useful in monitoring issues that affect your gynecological health, including:

• Polyps
• Fibroids
• Uterine abnormalities

You may also undergo a 3D ultrasound as a diagnostic tool for diagnosing multiple miscarriages and other gynecological health issues.

Additionally, the clarity of 3D ultrasound images is exciting for parents who get a first look at their baby’s features, development, and movements in real-time. This often helps build a stronger bond between parents and child and increases the anticipation for childbirth.

The ultrasound process

Whether Dr. Fozouni determines you need a 2D or 3D ultrasound, the procedure is the same. Ultrasound technology uses a hand-held transducer device that painlessly captures the images of your baby without invasive techniques.

The ultrasound technician applies a gel over your abdomen to prevent friction between your skin and the transducer. They then move the device over your abdomen, which sends images of your baby and internal structures to an external monitor.

As the transducer is moved around, you can see your baby on the screen. Using these images, Dr. Fozouni and the technician measure various parts of your baby, including your baby’s head circumference and body length.

During your exam, the technician can take pictures of your baby for you as a keepsake. They can also tell you the sex of your baby, if you want to know before birth.

In the event abnormalities are detected on the ultrasound, Dr. Fozouni can recommend additional testing to address these issues and discusses your next steps.

If you’re looking for comprehensive pregnancy care, call the office today to schedule a consultation, or book an appointment online now.