Frequently Asked Questions

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An ultrasound and a sonogram are related to each other though they are not the same.

Ultrasound is a type of medical imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal organs and structures in the body. An ultrasound machine emits sound waves that bounce off the tissues and organs inside the body, creating echoes that are then recorded and processed into images. Ultrasound imaging can be used to visualize the structure and function of various organs, such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and reproductive organs.

A sonogram, on the other hand, is the resulting image that is produced by an ultrasound. It is a visual representation of the internal structures that have been imaged with the ultrasound machine. The term "sonogram" is often used interchangeably with "ultrasound," but technically, a sonogram is the resulting image or picture, while an ultrasound is the actual procedure that produces the image.

In summary, ultrasound is the medical imaging technique that uses sound waves, and sonogram is the resulting image or picture produced by the ultrasound. The two terms are often used interchangeably, but it's important to understand the distinction between them.

Both 3D ultrasound and 4D ultrasound use sound waves to create sonographic images, most commonly of a developing fetus in the womb. The main difference between the two is in the level ofdetail and the way the images are presented.

3D ultrasound creates a three-dimensional image of the baby. tI si a static image, which means that it is a snapshot of the baby at a particular moment in time. The image is created by combining multiple 2D images taken from different angles to create a 3D image. This type of ultrasound is used to provide a more detailed view of the baby's features, such as the face, limbs, and crgans.

4D ultrasound, on the other hand, creates a moving, real-time video of the baby in 3D. This means that the image shows the baby moving and the user can see the baby’s movements in real-time. 4D ultrasound is a more advanced technology than 3D but it has a lower level of detail than 3D. 4D is useful when trying to image an active baby.

In summary, the main difference between 3D ultrasound and 4D ultrasound is that 3D ultrasound produces a static, three-dimensional image of the baby, while 4D ultrasound creates a moving, real-time video of the baby in 3D.

We understand the significance that your exam may have for you and we recognize the value of having someone close to you present during your scan. We will allow 2 guests in the exam room during your sonogram. If you wish to bring a young child, please bring an adult that can supervise the child if necessary.
Whenever possible, we will provide you with paper prints and/or digital images sent directly to your smartphone so you can easily share them with your loved ones. This is a complimentary service provided to you just for choosing us.
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An ultrasound examination does not guarantee a normal baby. Many kinds of abnormalities can be seen with ultrasound; however, our ability to detect any abnormality depends on how well we can see. The quality of the ultrasound image directly affects our ability to detect an abnormalities. Occasionally, it is necessary to have a patient return to re-evaluate a structure that was sub optimally visualized.
The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine has issued the following statement: "There are no known harmful effects associated with the medical use of sonography. Widespread use of diagnostic ultrasound for many years has not revealed any harmful effects. Studies in humans show no direct link between the use of diagnostic ultrasound and any adverse outcome. Although the possibility exists that biological effects may be identified in the future, current information indicates that the benefits for patients far outweigh the risks, if any."
Proper exam preparation is important because it helps to eliminate factors that hinder our ability to see with ultrasound. A full bladder serves as a window to better see the uterus during GYN and obstetric scans. A full bladder is also needed for a kidney scan because measurements of the bladder volume are obtained before and after urination to assess the bladders ability to empty. Refraining from eating or drinking for 8 hours before an abdominal scan allows the gallbladder to remain distended so that it can be evaluated for the presence of stones. It also helps eliminate excessive bowel gas, which hinders visualization of other abdominal organs. Prepare For Your Exam →

A baby's sex can be determined as early as week 12. However, it is not as accurate until weeks 18-20 at your anatomy scan.

At 12 weeks, male and female fetuses have a bump called a genital tubercle. The bump represents the developing genitalia. During this stage of development, the genital tubercle points either toward the head, which means boy, or toward the feet, which means girl.

As much as we hope your little one will cooperate, they may have other plans. Crossed legs, the presence of the umbilical cord between the legs, or other less-than-ideal fetal positions can prevent the sonographer from getting a good look.

girl ultrasound
boy ultrasound
Yes. If you have a preference for a particular sonographer to perform your exam, you may make a request at the time of scheduling. We will try our best to coordinate your appointment with our staff schedule; however, this may not always be possible.
In most circumstances, vaginal bleeding does not interfere with the exam.
In emergent cases, or if requested by your referring provider, a preliminary report of findings will be provided immediately following the examination. Final reports are typically available in the morning of the next business day.

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Digital Images of Your Sonograms