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1) What is ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to reflect off internal body parts. The reflected waves are picked up by the probe (the device that moves across the tummy) and rela yed to the machine. The sounds (or echoes) are electronically changed into pictures (or images). The machine displays the distances and intensities of the echoes on the screen, forming a two dimensional image. For 3D, several two-dimensional images are acquired and then combined by the machine’s state-of-the-art computer software to form 3D images. An ultrasound can also reproduce sounds, such as a baby’s heartbeat. This is a prescription used device.
2) What is a sonogram?
A sonogram is the image or picture taken of your baby during the ultrasound. It is the “still shot” or what we refer to as a photo.
3) What is 2D ultrasound?
This is most often the ultrasound that you will get in your doctor’s office as part of your regular prenatal care. 2D ultrasound is used for diagnostics, such as for viewing the baby’s heartbeat and anatomy or determining gender. 2D images are black and white. Often they are small images printed on thin, glossy thermal paper.
4) What is 3D ultrasound?
A 3D ultrasound is a three dimensional view of your baby captured as a photo or sonogram. 3D ultrasound provides a sense of depth, unlike the more common 2D ultrasound. With 3D you can see surfaces and detail, such as adorable little noses and precious little toes. And, with 3D we can get pictures in color (colorized—sepia), an option that is not possible with 2D.
5) What is 4D ultrasound?
4D ultrasound simply means 3D in “real” time. Also known as “live motion,” it is just that—the baby moving—captured on video. A 3D image in movement. Another dimension (time) is added to capture what is actually happening. That is how you are able to watch your baby kicking and stretching, smiling and yawning. Think of 4D as a movie or video, and 3D as the still image or the photograph.
6) Why do you use 2D if 3D is so much better?
We always start with a limited 2D scan, to find the best scanning position and to determine gender, if requested. Since 2D is used for viewing real-time activity, we like to use a combination of 2D together with 3D and 4D to give you a full picture of your baby and your baby’s movements.
7) Does this take the place of an ultrasound in my doctor’s office?
Definitely not. Our procedures are elective only and should not be used in place of a full diagnostic scan from your medical doctor. That is why we require all of our clients to have written consent from a medical physician.
8) Do I need a note from my doctor?
Yes. We want to be sure that our clients are receiving prenatal care and that their health care providers are aware of their decisions to receive 3D/4D ultrasounds. We require that all of our clients have written consent from their health care providers. We will gladly fax a copy of our release form to either you or your healthcare provider.
9) What if my doctor will not give me a referral?
We would be happy to provide whatever information is needed.
10) Do you have a physician on staff?
Yes.
11) Are your sonographers experienced?
At Miracle in Sight we know that nothing can take the place of experience, so therefore we require that our sonographers be experienced and proficient in ultrasound scanning. We set the highest standards of care because we know that it’s the right way to do business. We will only settle for the best—and we are confident that is what our clients will get from us at Miracle in Sight.
12) Do you use the same ultrasound machine as my doctor?
There is more than one manufacturer of ultrasound machines, but they all have essentially the same capabilities. Although our services are not meant to take the place of your medical diagnostic ultrasound ordered by your doctor, the basic technology is the same.
Both will provide you with black and white 2D images of your baby on thermal paper (yes, they will fade with time, especially in the sun or if you try to copy them), but the similarities pretty much stop there. At Miracle in Sight we provide you with colorized 3D images of your baby, a video documenting your baby’s movements, and most importantly, an opportunity to relax and spend precious moments watching your baby as he kicks and stretches, sucks his thumb and rubs his eyes.
13) What kind of ultrasound machine do you use?
At Miracle in Sight we are proud to use the latest model Medison 8000. There are always advancements in technology, and Medison is always at the forefront of 3D/4D digital ultrasound imaging. It was Medison who pioneered the first digital imaging scanners in the 1980’s and then introduced the world’s first live 3D ultrasound technology in 1998. In fact, other manufacturers incorporate Medison components into their equipment to ensure superior 3D/4D images. It’s the best the industry has to offer--just another example of how we bring the very best to all of our clients.
14) How long does the 3D/4D ultrasound take?
Our sessions last from 10 minutes for our Gender in Sight package to 20 minutes for our 3D/4D in Sight package. However, babies are not always cooperative. What that means is that we may try and try, but the baby may make us work a little harder than we expected. We schedule clients with plenty of time in between each appointment to ensure a tranquil and unrushed experience for the entire family. We don't scan over 30 minutes.
NOTE: We ask that you arrive 10 minutes early to complete necessary paperwork.
15) How long should I plan for my appointment?
Plan on one hour. Twins will require a bit longer.
16) What happens if my baby is one of the uncooperative ones?
Obviously each scan is different, but we are very successful in getting just what we need. And though we are skilled sonographers there are some occasions where we have to be a little creative. If the baby is facing the mother’s back and is unwilling to turn and face us, we have some options. We will reposition you, or possibly have you step out and take a little stroll or get something to drink (if there is time in our schedule). But then sometimes it just won’t work, baby wins, and we have no choice but to ask you to return another time. It is a complimentary return appointment at no additional cost to you, but we will require another prescription from your medical physician.
17) How many weeks should I be before I schedule my first ultrasound?
18 weeks is about the earliest for a 2D scan to determine gender, although it sometimes is possible at 17 weeks. If you are only planning on having one ultrasound scan, we suggest between 24 and 34 weeks, with 24-28 the most optimal for most pregnancies.
If you are planning on having more than one, the first ultrasound scheduled between 22 and 26 weeks usually produces a more exciting video because there is more room in the womb for baby to move around and be active. Their facial features are beginning to fill out at about 24-26 weeks. The second scan at between 30-34 weeks can produce wonderful facial images because the baby’s face is filled out. This is the stage you’ll be most likely to see Daddy’s chin, Mommy’s lips, and big sister’s adorable little nose.
18) How far along should I be before I have a 3D/4D ultrasound?
For a 3D/4D scan, we recommend between 24 and 34 weeks. We have obtained stunning images as early as 18 weeks and as late as 39 weeks, but we do not recommend a 3D scan either that early in your pregnancy or waiting as long as 37-39 weeks.
19) What is the earliest time in my pregnancy that I can come in?
18 weeks (sometimes as early as 16 or 17 weeks) for gender determination, providing you have the necessary approval from your medical physician.
20) Do I need an appointment?
Yes, we schedule by appointment only. We do not accept walk-ins.
21) How far in advance should I schedule my appointment?
We suggest at least 24 hours in advance. Although we can’t say for sure, we are often booked a week in advance. Saturdays and evenings fill up quickly, so we encourage you to plan ahead.
22) Would it be possible to come in on the same day I call?
Possibly but not likely, as we do fill up. However, it is always possible that we have a cancellation, so please do not hesitate to call. We will do everything possible to see you when it is convenient for you.
23) What days and hours are you open for business?
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am to 5pm (last appointment at 4pm) and Saturday 9am to 3pm (last appointment at 3pm). Wednesday first appointment at 10:00am and last appointment at 6:30pm. After hours appointments available upon request. Please call for details.
24) Can I bring family and friends?
Absolutely! We strongly encourage families. As a matter of fact, we call the room that we do our scanning in our “Family Room.” So, when we invite you to enter our Family Room, you’ll know just what we mean. We know that the experience of meeting your baby for the first time is made even more special when shared with loved ones. We are confident that you’ll agree that the decision to experience your own little Miracle in Sight will be one that you and your entire family will remember and cherish for always.
25) How many people can I bring?
Our large “Family Room” can comfortably accommodate 6 - 8 people comfortably. We never limit the amount of loved ones that our clients wish to bring to share in their baby’s big ultrasound debut, so we’ll find more chairs or comfy pillows for as many as we can. With our big screen projector, there’s a great view from anywhere in the room, and if you don’t mind standing room only, we don’t either!
26) Are children allowed in the room?
Of course they are. We are the strongest proponents of family and truly believe that bonding is really enhanced for parents, siblings, grandparents, and other family members and friends as soon as that little face or those little hands or feet first appear on the monitor or TV screen. And, even if you have small children who are too young to understand what is happening, you’ll be able to tell them one day that they were present as you all took your first peek at the newest little miracle in your family.
27) Is there an age limit?
No. From the youngest to the oldest, everyone is welcome in our Family Room. Trust us—the experience is not to be missed, especially by some of our seniors—parents, grandparents, great-grandparents. Actually, some of our most dazzled family members are the elders. They seem to be more in awe over what they are seeing than everyone else in the room. Young or old, what is possible now with our modern technology is amazing to anyone who sees live 3D ultrasound for the first time or the 50th time.
28) How accurate are your sonographers at identifying gender?
99.9%. As we say, we’re trained and experienced. You can count on it!
29) What is the earliest time that you can determine gender?
We prefer 18 weeks, but sometimes as early as 16-17 weeks.
30) I just want to know the sex of my baby—can you do that before I see my doctor for my diagnostic ultrasound?
We are usually able to determine gender at about 18 weeks, but we require that you be under the care of a doctor and prefer that you have already received a complete prenatal diagnostic ultrasound from your medical physician. However, for those who just can’t wait to find out, with a signed prescription form from your medical physician, we will provide a 2D Gender in Sight scan and be happy to let you know the gender of your baby.
31) What if we don’t want to know the gender of our baby?
No problem. We’ll never give away the secret—and we’ll be careful to avoid that area, just to be sure. We like surprises too!
32) Is 3D really in color?
It is actually referred to as “colorized” or sepia. It is definitely not black and white, and the surface definition that is possible with colorized 3D images is truly outstanding. You’ll have to see it to believe that it is even possible!
33) Does it cost more to have an ultrasound if I am expecting twins?
Yes, we charge an additional $50 for twins. It is much more difficult to scan twins, mostly due to their position in the womb, and we do spend more time trying to get images we want. It’s not uncommon to ask our expectant mothers of twins to return at least once.
34) Will I get a picture of each baby?
Of course! We wouldn’t want it any other way—and neither would you. Actually, you’ll get a double package—the same amount of photos for each baby—and for only $50 more.
35) Should I plan to come in earlier in my pregnancy if I am expecting twins?
Most definitely. We suggest 22-28 weeks. The further along in your pregnancy, the less room there is with twins and thus more difficulty in getting good images.
36) What if one baby is cooperating and the other isn’t?
That happens. Because of the twin’s positions, we sometimes get an image of one twin in one session, and the other on the next. It is a rare occasion that we get everything we want in one session. It’s uncommon to get a good look at both babies at the same time, so when we are blessed with such an image, everyone is thrilled!
37) Is the 3D/4D ultrasound covered by my insurance?
No. This is an elective limited diagnostic ultrasound and therefore not covered by insurance as a medical procedure.
38) What type of payment do you take?
We accept cash, Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, and ATM/Debit cards. We do not accept checks.
39) I’m not sure how many weeks I am. Can you help me figure that out?
Yes, we do have a “pregnancy calculator” in our office that we can refer to. Just call us with your due date, and we can tell you how far along you are.
40) How much will an ultrasound cost?
Our packages vary in price, but all are very affordable. Whether you are looking for a “ Gender in Sight” 2D session or an 3D/4D "Miracle in Sight Special Package", we’ve got just the session for you. Please call or email us for complete details on all of our Miracle in Sight packages and the cost for each.
41) Do you offer a bring a“girlfriend bonus?”
We do have a “Bring a Friend” bonus. ** Schedule your appointments together on the same day, back-to-back, and we’ll give you each, two extra sheet's of color photos (a $20 value).
42) Can I get extra pictures and CD’s?
Yes. For a complete list of additional items, see our packages page for availability.
43) How many images will be on my CD?
Your CD will have a minimum of 10-20 images, depending on the length of the session. And, if your baby is especially willing to be photographed, you will most likely have a lot more!
44) Should I drink a lot of water and have a full bladder to have my ultrasound?
No, we just want you to be comfortable. Unlike a diagnostic ultrasound where the sonographer needs you to have a full bladder, we are not doing a medical assessment. Just be comfortable. Remember . . . this is a really fun experience!
45) What should I wear?
Again, be comfortable—but, no dresses, please.
46) Do you have gift certificates?
Yes, we do. Many of our clients have received one of our gift certificates as a shower gift. You don’t even need to come in to purchase one—just call us with all the information or you can purchase on line using our secured PayPal link.
47) What is the “Family Room?”
Our “Family Room” at Miracle in Sight is just like any other family room you’d find in a family’s home. Used for relaxation, it is the hub, the activity center, the cozy, warm room where family most often gathers. Our “Family Room” is just that.
Other imaging centers call it a “scanning room” or an “imaging studio” or even just “the room.” We think that’s rather bland, sterile and impersonal. At Miracle in Sight you will never get bland or impersonal. We promote family so we believe that calling it the “Family Room” was the perfect name for the room where the entire family can be together.
48) What is the Family Room like?
Our “Family Room” is by far the best room in our center. Excitement happens here, it is a room filled with love. Our “Family Room” can comfortably seat 12 guests. It has a big screen TV so everyone can get a good view of the star of the show, the baby. It is cozy and warm, and has a big box of tissues to wipe away those tears of joy.
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