What Is Ultrasound?

One way to observe prenatal development is via ultrasound imaging. There are several different scanning modes in medical and obstetric ultrasound. The standard, obstetric mode is 2D screening. However, ultrasound has progressed to 3D and 4D scanning abilities. In 3D fetal scanning the sound waves are sent at different angles. This allows the returning echoes to be processed by a sophisticated computer program, resulting in a reconstructed 3 dimensional image of the baby. This allows anyone to see the width, height and depth of images similar to
a 3D movie, but no movement is shown.

Modern 3D ultrasound images provide greater detail for prenatal diagnosis, rather than the older 2D ultrasound technology. 3D ultrasound images are popular with parents, desiring a prenatal photograph as a keepsake. There are no definite studies linking ultrasound to any adverse medical effects on the mother or baby.