What types of sessions does Babies 1st Expressions offer?

We offer three affordably priced sessions in addition to extra options at each location. In addition to the latest in imaging, after around 17 weeks, we are able to provide unsurpassed accuracy in ultrasound gender determination. If for any reason gender determination isn't possible, we invite you to return for a free Quick Peek to check gender.

Please see our sessions section in each store's web page for more detailed information on what each store provides.

How Many Weeks Do You Have to Be for a Babies 1st Expressions Ultrasound Session?

We provide ultrasounds from 12 weeks to full term. Gender determination can be provided after 17 weeks.

When is a Good Time for a 3-D or 4-D Ultrasound?

Anytime is good for an imaging ultrasound, but you will see different things at different times. Many women choose to come in twice or more (up to four visits permitted) to see their baby at various stages. At around 16-24 weeks, you are able to see more of your baby at once and witness the amazing development already well underway. At around 24-36 weeks, as babies are building more fat, more facial features can be seen. We do see women up to full term, but with variable results. More fat creates pudgy baby images, but the baby gets increasingly crowded at the end of term and may hide. 3-D and 4D imaging depends upon the baby's position, size and movement, so we cannot guarantee image quality due to those factors.

Why do you still offer two-dimensional (2-D) Ultrasound?

Two-dimensional imaging is ideal for viewing heartbeat, real-time fetal activity, hair (after 27 weeks) and gender. We perform regular ultrasound anytime after 12 weeks, but recommend 17 weeks or later for gender determination. We always include regular ultrasound with 3-D as they work together to show a full picture of the baby's features and activity.

We refer to two-dimensional ultrasound as "Regular" ultrasound because it is the standard technology used in prenatal care and is familiar to our clients. Two-dimensional imagery solely displays height and width, generally appearing as an outline of the baby. The benefit of regular ultrasound is its ability to look "through" some obstacles, such a hand on the face. Also, the real-time movement shown in regular ultrasound can be recorded on your video.

What will determine the quality of the images?

Many factors are involved in obtaining clear images. We use state-of-the-art equipment and highly qualified technicians trained exclusively in obtaining images that are clear to non-technicians. We often find we are able to image even the most shy babies and we do our best under all circumstances. However, there are several factors outside of our control which will determine the quality of the images.

1. Fetal position: Some babies come ready for their close-up and seem to be posing at every turn. Others simply turn their back on us. Still others cuddle up to the placenta or uterine wall, or hide behind their hands (and feet). We know you particularly want to see your baby's face and we do all we can to encourage baby to turn our way. Particularly in 3-D and 4D, a straight-on face view is not very common. We urge you to enjoy the fun and sometimes funny positions your baby prefers rather than hold out for the glamour shot.



2. Maternal tissue: The more tissue the sound waves need to travel through, the less contrast the resulting images have. For this reason we often find we get better results with our fuller-figured clients later in their pregnancy for all imaging technologies--around 19+ weeks for gender determination and 32-35 for 3-D/4-D. Again, you will get the best images possible, with the best equipment and technicians, but maternal tissue can be an important factor.



3. Fetal activity: It is fun to see the baby in motion in regular ultrasound and a little food or juice before your visit can assist in increasing baby's activity (no caffeine please! A little orange juice or lemonade should do the trick!). On the other hand, the best still 3-D photo results come when baby is asleep or still. Whether or not you have eaten, baby may sleep through the whole video, then set us on a chase for the 3-D portion. As always, we encourage you to enjoy your baby's activity and we'll do our part to work with your baby.



4. Gestational development: In 3-D, some babies are best seen at 20 weeks and others at 36, regardless of maternal tissue or other factors. Babies are simply different. Again, we use state-of-the-art equipment and highly qualified technicians to provide you with the best results possible.

Will You Be Able to Determine The Gender of My Baby?

We pride ourselves on our skill and accuracy and gender determination/verification when it is desired. We have great first-time success and work to get baby in a cooperative position if necessary. When our technicians determine gender, they will attempt to obtain a clear "lay" image of the area for you if possible. We never guess or give percentages on gender. We will clearly state and show the gender of your baby. And although your session includes a single visit, if for any reason we cannot find the gender and you are after 16 weeks, we will invite you back for a free return visit.

What kind of training training do your technicians receive?

Babies 1st Expressions employs ultrasound technicians from a variety of backgrounds. Some are licensed, registered technicians (ARDMS), others are certified through clinical ultrasound schools around the country, and still others have been trained directly under the supervision of an obstetrician. Whatever the educational background or years of diagnostic experience the technician has before coming to Babies 1st Expressions, the imaging techniques exclusive to Babies 1st Expressions require the same lengthy period of intensive training and supervised scanning. The result--each Babies 1st Expressions technician is one of a limited number of sonographers around the country counted among the best in the nation in fetal imaging.

Do I Need a Note From My Provider to Visit Babies 1st Expressions?

It is essential that your provider knows that you have requested our services and that you are under a provider's care before your visit to Babies 1st Expressions. We are an optional service and do not replace any element of your prenatal care. We provide a minimal medical service but do not provide measurements or determination of due dates. If you have medical concerns we urge you to notify your health care provider. We give you a report to return to your provider which contains our minimal information.

Are the Ultrasounds performed at Babies 1st Expressions safe?

Ultrasound has been used safely in obstetrics for over 35 years, encompassing three generations of women. In a typical 15 minute sonogram using ultrasound at standard diagnostic levels, only nine seconds is spent emitting sound waves, miniscule amounts in short increments. The remaining time is spent “listening” to the echoes.

Along with doctors around the world who rely on ultrasound throughout a woman’s pregnancy, we believe in the safety of the technology. Nonetheless, in line with our standards of responsibility, we feel it wise to be prudent in the use of this technology to make sure it always used within the parameters which have been proven safe over the decades.

Can I Have My Friends and Family With Me?

Anyone you want may join you for your experience at Babies 1st Expressions. Contact the location nearest you to confirm how many guests the viewing room can accommodate.

Do I Need an Appointment?

Yes, we schedule by appointment only.  We do not accept walk-ins.  Occasionally, same day visits can be accommodated.  However, please call your nearest location for appointment availability.  Please note that weekends and evenings are in high demand and do fill up quickly.

Does Babies 1st Expressions Take My Medical Insurance?

Babies 1st Expressions does not accept insurance as we are supplemental care that does not replace your doctor's care. Please contact your physician if you have questions about insurance and ultrasound scans.

When Will I Get My Babies 1st Expressions Pictures and Video?

All pictures, videos, DVDs, etc. will be ready to take with you when you leave your appointment, unless you order more than 2 duplicate videos, in which case duplicates will be mailed.