Thanks to developing technology, medical imaging systems are becoming more advanced and sensitive every day. 4D ultrasound stands out as an imaging method that offers a very special experience for expectant mothers and fathers as well as medical diagnoses. Unlike traditional 2D and 3D ultrasounds, 4D ultrasound allows you to watch the baby's movements, facial expressions and facial features in real time.
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What is 4D Ultrasound?
Four-dimensional ultrasound is a modern medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to provide detailed and instantaneous images of the baby in the womb. Unlike traditional ultrasound methods, it provides real-time (live) images, allowing parents to see their babies more clearly before they are born.
It is completely safe and does not harm the baby or the expectant mother. It offers high-resolution imaging. The baby's face, hands, facial expressions and movements can be observed in detail.
Why is a 4D Ultrasound Performed?
A 4D ultrasound is important not only for imaging the baby, but also for performing some medical checks.
- To examine the baby's development in detail
- To instantly monitor the baby's face, hands and body movements
- To detect structural or deformities in the uterus
- To determine problems with the placenta or amniotic fluid
- For early diagnosis of some chromosomal diseases
- To learn the baby's gender earlier
Thanks to a 4D ultrasound, it is possible to access detailed information about the baby's development and to see his face clearly before birth.
Advantages of 4D Ultrasound
What Diseases Can Be Detected with 4D Ultrasound?
4D ultrasound plays an important role in the early diagnosis of structural disorders and chromosomal abnormalities that can be seen especially in babies.
- Facial deformities such as cleft palate and lip
- Whether the baby has developmental disorders in its limbs
- Problems with internal organ development
- Early symptoms of some genetic diseases
- Spine curvatures (diseases such as spina bifida)
When used together with detailed screening tests, 4D ultrasound provides very important information about whether the baby is developing healthily.
When Should a 4D Ultrasound Be Performed?
A 4D ultrasound can be performed at any stage of pregnancy. However, it is recommended to perform it between the 16th and 28th weeks to get the most ideal results.
- Starting from the 16th week of pregnancy: The baby's facial features and gender begin to become apparent.
- Between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy: The baby's face, hands and facial expressions can be observed more clearly.
- After the 28th week: It may become difficult to view the baby as it begins to take the birth position.
The most suitable time period for parents who want to see the baby's face clearly is between the 24th and 28th weeks.
How is a 4D Ultrasound Performed?
A 4D ultrasound procedure is performed in a similar way to standard ultrasound scans. The expectant mother lies on a special stretcher. A special gel is applied to the abdominal area. The doctor moves the ultrasound probe around the abdominal area and projects the images on the screen. The mother and father can watch their baby's real-time facial expressions and movements. This procedure is painless and does not cause any side effects. It takes about 15-30 minutes, and the expectant mother can immediately return to her daily life.
Advantages of 4D Ultrasound
- It clearly shows the baby's face, facial expressions and movements.
- It provides important information about the baby's development.
- It allows early diagnosis of some birth defects.
- It offers a unique prenatal experience for the mother and father.
- It is safe and does not contain radiation.
