FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About 3D/4D Ultrasounds

The optimal time is generally between 26–30 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage, babies often have well-developed features and are more likely to be in a position that allows for clear facial imaging. Earlier or later scans are still possible, but image quality can vary depending on position, fluid levels, and other factors.

A few simple steps can improve the likelihood of high-quality images:

• Stay well hydrated in the 24 hours prior to your appointment.

• Eat a light meal approximately 2 hours beforehand.

• About 15 minutes before your scan, have a small amount of fruit, chocolate, or a sweet drink to encourage gentle fetal movement.

Yes. The placenta’s location (anterior, posterior, or lateral) can influence the visibility of the baby’s face. However, with adequate hydration and scanning expertise, we can often obtain excellent images regardless of placement.

If clear images are not possible on the day due to fetal position or other factors, Cedar 4D Baby Ultrasound offers one complimentary rescan. To maximize success, we recommend booking your session before 30 weeks, as rescans after 32 weeks cannot be guaranteed. Please refer to available packages.

Yes. Hearing your baby’s heartbeat is a special part of the bonding experience. We also offer the option of recording the heartbeat into a keepsake bear for families wishing to take this memory home.

Yes, we welcome multiple pregnancies. The session time will be shared between each baby to ensure all are included. For higher-order multiples, we can arrange a tailored package.

No referral is required. Our 3D/4D ultrasound sessions are designed for bonding and keepsake purposes. These scans do not replace the diagnostic ultrasounds recommended by your healthcare provider.

BMI (Body Mass Index) can play a role in ultrasound
imaging. When there is more body tissue between the ultrasound probe and the
baby, the sound waves have a greater distance to travel. This can sometimes
result in images that are less sharp, with a slightly fuzzier appearance.

At Cedar, our sonographers are highly experienced
and will do everything possible to optimise your scan. This may include
adjusting your position (for example, turning onto your side) to reduce beam
distortion and improve clarity.

We have also invested in state-of-the-art
ultrasound technology, which is continually updated to deliver the best results
possible, even in more technically challenging situations.

Preparation Tip: Increasing your hydration can make
a significant difference. Aim to drink around 3 litres of water daily for at
least 5 days leading up to your appointment. Adequate amniotic fluid levels
often enhance image clarity, and in many cases, we can still achieve beautiful,
detailed images despite higher BMI.

While there are natural limitations, our focus is
always on creating the most meaningful bonding experience and capturing your
baby in the best possible way.

The preparation for your bladder depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy:

·       8–13 weeks
Empty your bladder one hour before your appointment, then drink 2 glasses of water (500–600ml) and hold until your scan.

·       14–19 weeks
Empty your bladder one hour before your appointment, then drink 1 glass of water (250–300ml) and hold until your scan.

·       20–40 weeks
Please completely empty your bladder about 5 minutes before your appointment.

These guidelines help us achieve the clearest possible images, tailored to your stage of pregnancy.

The best views are between 26–30 weeks, when your baby’s features are clear and space is still plentiful.

3D shows detailed still images, while 4D adds real-time video of your baby’s movements and expressions.

You can still get lovely images up to 34 weeks, but after 30 weeks, baby may appear a little “squished” as space becomes tighter.

No — they are elective, non-diagnostic scans and are not covered by Medicare or private insurance.

A: Every baby is different. We allow time, patience and gentle techniques to encourage movement — but most importantly, we ensure your experience remains calm and positive regardless.

A: Yes. All Cedar scans are non-diagnostic and performed by a medically trained sonographer following established ultrasound safety guidelines. Our focus is always gentle imaging, comfort and bonding.