In the latest year on record, nearly 4 million babies were born in the United States. That’s over 10,000 babies per day! For all of those expecting families out there, there are accompanying medical services, as well. 3D ultrasounds are a new form of technology that allows families to get a more detailed view of their little ones.
If you’re scheduled for a 6-week 3D ultrasound, there are some things you should be prepared to ask about to ensure you make the most of your visit. As experts who offer 3D ultrasounds in Chicago, we have suggestions for questions you’ll definitely want to bring up to your provider.
If you’re ready to learn more, grab a pen and paper and read on.
1. Why Do I Need a 6-Week 3D Ultrasound?
This is the first question you should ask. Usually, if your doctor orders an ultrasound for 6 weeks, he or she has a specific reason for doing so.
6-week ultrasounds are most often conducted for one or more of the following reasons:
- You are over the age of 35
- You have a high-risk pregnancy or have experienced pregnancy complications or loss in the past
- Your medical history calls for an early check
Knowing the reason for your 6-week ultrasound can be useful in knowing what to expect before you book your appointment. It can also help you determine if there are any additional measures you should take during pregnancy.
2. Is There One Embryo or Multiple?
While 6 weeks could be too early to tell, your doctor may be able to detect if there is one embryo or more on a 6-week 3D ultrasound due to the detail that this technology allows.
Be sure to check-in. You could leave your appointment expecting not one but two or more little ones! Knowing early can help you prepare.
3. Can You Detect a Heartbeat?
The answer to this one could be “yes.” It could also be “not yet.” Don’t worry either way.
The earliest a fetal heartbeat can be detected is at 5 weeks and 2 days from gestation. Even at 6 weeks, it can be difficult or impossible to see. Again, 3D ultrasounds offer greater detail, so detecting a heartbeat is not out of the question.
4. Where is the Embryo Located?
The location of the embryo should be checked at your first ultrasound appointment.
The embryo could appear outside of the uterus, indicating an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies can be treated with medication if detected early on.
In a non-ectopic pregnancy, your doctor should still check on the embryo’s location. It may attach itself higher or lower in the uterus.
5. When Is the Due Date?
You may already know that you can calculate your due date based on your last menstrual period. This is true, but a 3D ultrasound can provide a more accurate timeline.
Be sure to ask about your due date if you want to have a more accurate idea of your little one’s likely birthday.
Are You Expecting?
If you’re an expecting mother receiving a 6-week 3D ultrasound, these questions will help you create a foundation of personalized early pregnancy information.
Let Tummy Vision be your go-to service provider. We offer 3D and 4D ultrasounds in Chicago. Our experts are ready to answer all of your 6-week 3D ultrasound questions and beyond!
New clients receive $5 off their first service. We invite you to book an ultrasound or contact us to learn more.