Calgary Baby Guide 2023-2024

What about the 3D/4D ultrasound?
3D and 4D technology is about volume acquisition and software reconstruction of that volume. It is slices
of 2D combined, creating an illusion of 3D volume. 3D/4D has the advantage of making it easier to
visualize for parents, increasing bonding and the understanding of the baby’s appearance. 4D is 3D
viewed in real time. Prenatal 3D images can be used for diagnostic purposes, especially for facial
anomalies and clefts, skeletal and central nervous system anomalies. The quality and the usefulness of a
3D image is variable and should be reserved for medical indications. There is consensus from national
and international medical organizations and regulation bodies that prenatal ultrasonography should not
be performed for nonmedical reasons, such as solely for parents to have a keepsake picture/video of the
fetus, solely to learn the sex of the fetus, or for commercial demonstration purposes such as trade shows.
The nonmedical use of ultrasound may lead to false reassurance, as anomalies may not be detected.
Nonmedical providers are not prepared to discuss and provide follow-up of worrisome findings either.
Again, consider discussing it with your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Ultrasounds have been around for over 45 years; safely providing a unique insight into the baby’s first
environment. Technology is evolving rapidly: the use, access and accuracy of prenatal ultrasound is bound
to evolve and change with the emergence of artificial intelligence and connectivity. Prenatal ultrasounds
will probably never be able to predict all health outcomes, keeping in mind that developing humans are
resilient and can surprise us. Being aware of the scope and the limitation of prenatal ultrasound allows you
to make the most supportive decisions for yourself and your family, and that is the most important
take-home message.
www.modernmama.com | CALGARY | A RESOURCE GUIDE | 2023/2024 Edition • 25