High-Quality 3D/4D Ultrasound Scans in Birmingham, AL
There’s something surreal about seeing your baby before they’re even here. It’s the curve of a cheek, the wiggle of tiny fingers, the kind of moment that makes it all feel real. At ACRM, our 3D and 4D ultrasounds give you a clear, moving look into your baby’s world, offering a bonding experience that’s as emotional as it is informative.
While not a required part of your medical care, many parents choose this elective scan to connect with their baby in a way that standard ultrasounds just can’t capture.
Real-Time Baby Moments
What to expect during an ultrasound appointment.Your 3D/4D ultrasound appointment is designed to feel more like a bonding experience than a medical exam. The process itself is just like a standard 2D ultrasound. You’ll be reclined in a softly lit room, surrounded only by those you welcome to share the moment with. A warm, water-based gel is applied to your belly, and the ultrasound technician gently glides a handheld device over your skin.
The difference, however, is what you see. Instead of a flat, two-dimensional image, 3D ultrasounds use advanced technology to capture lifelike, three-dimensional images of your baby’s features. And with 4D, those sweet moments, like kicks, stretches, and tiny yawns, are shown in real time. There’s no preparation needed; just come in, get cozy, and enjoy an authentic glimpse of your little one.
A Variety of Ultrasound Packages Designed For You
Choose a package that works for your budget.For patients who have graduated from ACRM.
– One 10-15 minute 2D session
– Patients 12-20 weeks along
– 2 printed photos
– One 10-15 minute 3D/4D session
– Patients 26-32 weeks along
– 2 printed photos
– One 20-25 minute 3D/4D session
– Patients 26-32 weeks along
– Up to 4 printed photos
– Digital photos emailed
– Two 20-25 minute 3D/4D sessions
– Patients 26-32 weeks along
– Up to 4 printed photos per session
– Digital photos emailed after each session
What’s the Difference Between 2D, 3D, and 4D Ultrasounds?
Detailed images that show off your growing little one’s features.Although the way an ultrasound is performed may be the same, the results you receive from 2D, 3D, and 4D scans look very different. Whether it’s your first glimpse at your little blessing or a follow-up peek, each scan adds a new layer of excitement, emotion, and bonding as you watch your baby grow.
What Parents Ask Us Most About 3D/4D Ultrasound Appointments
No, a 3D/4D ultrasound is not a substitute for the diagnostic ultrasound you’ll receive as part of your prenatal care. The ultrasounds performed at your doctor’s office are designed to monitor your baby’s health and development. This includes baby growth, signs of abnormalities, due date confirmation, placenta placement, and amniotic fluid levels.
A 3D/4D ultrasound is purely elective and non-medical. It’s a keepsake experience that allows you to bond with your baby by seeing more detailed images, like their facial features, movements, and expressions. It does not replace any medical imaging, and we always encourage you to follow your OB provider’s full ultrasound schedule for your health and your baby’s.
Ultrasound technology has been extensively studied over the past 30 years and is considered safe for both mother and baby. Routine ultrasounds have become a standard part of prenatal care because of their strong safety profile and the valuable insight they provide during pregnancy.
3D and 4D ultrasounds use the same ultrasound technology and intensity as traditional 2D scans. The process involves sending sound waves into the body using a probe placed on the skin and using the returning echoes to create an image.
There are no known risks as long as the ultrasounds are performed by trained professionals following established guidelines. Our technicians are experienced in keeping sessions within the recommended time and safety limits so you can enjoy the bonding experience with peace of mind.
Our 3D/4D ultrasound sessions take about 15 to 30 minutes, but the exact time depends on your selected package and your baby’s cooperation during the scan. Some sessions may be shorter if we can get great images quickly; others may take longer if your baby is in a tricky position.
We’re skilled at gently encouraging the baby to move, including having you walk around, shift positions, or drink something cold. If we cannot get clear images during your session, we may offer a rescan at a later date.
We do everything we can to get clear, detailed images, but there are a few factors outside of our control that affect the outcome. The quality of the images depends on your baby’s position, how far along you are, the amount of amniotic fluid, and maternal body composition. Some babies may cover their faces with their hands or feet, face toward your spine, or curl up in a way that makes it harder to see their features.
Our experienced sonographers are skilled in dealing with these challenges, but in rare cases, the baby’s position may prevent optimal images. If this happens, we will encourage you to return for another session.
In most cases, insurance will not cover a 3D/4D ultrasound because it’s considered elective and non-medical. These sessions are not used for diagnosing or treating any condition, so they typically fall outside the scope of what’s reimbursable by health plans. Even if your insurance covers your routine OB ultrasounds, 3D/4D ultrasounds are not covered.
That said, we understand the importance of this bonding experience and do our best to make it accessible. We offer different packages to fit a range of budgets, from shorter sessions to extended scans with photos and video keepsakes. If cost is a concern, let us know, and we’ll walk you through the options to help make it work for you.