FAQs

How good will the pictures be?

Most times they will be very good, however we cannot guarantee perfect pictures of your baby. Every baby scans differently, depending on its gestational age, position, amount of fluid, and mother's condition. To obtain clear view of your baby, we recommend that you drink eight glasses of water per day, for one week prior to your appointment. This increases the amniotic fluid around the baby which assists us to capture clear images for you. If the baby is persistently looking down or is laying up against the placenta wall, it may be difficult to see the baby's face. When this happens, a satisfactory scan may not be achievable. In these cases we will send Mum off for a walk or give her a drink and this may cause the baby to move to a more favourable position. We promise to make every effort to obtain the best possible images of whatever parts of the baby that can be seen. Should this not occur then we would reschedule the scan for another day at no extra charge. We stress that our clients understand the sometimes fascinating positions their babies get into and just enjoy the movements of their little miracle rather than hold out for the perfect glamour shot.

Why choose Precious Previews?

At Precious Previews, our focus is unique. The traditional prenatal ultrasound is enhanced by family-centered, advanced imaging methods to bring you closer to your baby, sooner. During each study, attentive technicians use the highest quality 2D, 3D, and 4D imaging to connect parents to their baby and show development during that stage of pregnancy. We have seen that through this process, many mums and dads feel more connected to the pregnancy and increase their commitment to their prenatal health behaviour.

Who will perform my ultrasound?

One of our trained technicians will make your experience one to remember. All staff at Precious Previews have been industry trained to utilize the state of the art technology Medison Sonace 8000 Live Ultrasound machine.

What is an Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is the use of high frequency sound waves to visualize structures within the body. A device called a transducer is used to send sound waves into the body, which are then reflected off the internal structures within the body. The returning sound waves (echoes) are captured by the same transducer and sent to the attached equipment which electronically change the echoes into a picture (image) of the internal structures.

What are the benefits for having a 3D/4D ultrasound scan?

Precious Previews believe once you see your baby in 3D this will be a realization for some new parents and that you will become more aware of healthy pregnancy habits. With 3D Ultrasound, you see your baby before birth, and with 4 D real time technology you can watch your baby move. Imagine seeing your baby yawn, stretch, scratch its nose or even suck its thumb whilst it is still in the womb. It is a wonderful way for mothers to further their maternity and parenting experience and for fathers and siblings to begin bonding with the baby before he or she is born.

When is the best time to schedule my 3D/ 4D ultrasound ?

Please ask yourself.... "What stage of development do I want to capture?"

Keep in mind we do sessions from 20 weeks (gender scans) to 36 weeks, however we suggest that the optimum time for your 3D/4D scan should be between 26 - 32 weeks. This is when we can generally capture the cutest images. Women with twins should come in around 24 weeks. Many mothers visit two to four times to capture the different stages of development. We offer a 20% discount for repeat sessions (Same Pregnancy).

What do I need to do before my ultrasound?

We recommend that you drink eight glasses of water per day, for one week prior to your appointment. This increases the amniotic fluid around the baby which assists us to capture clear images for you.

Is Ultrasound safe?

Yes, In the 35 years of use in medicine, there has never been a harmful effect shown by the use of ultrasound. Prenatal ultrasounds have been used with confidence by the medical community and are common practice throughout pregnancy to monitor the development of the foetus. Many women have multiple ultrasounds during their pregnancy with no negative effect on the baby. Women who are having trouble with pregnancy may have as many as two or three ultrasounds per week late in the third trimester.

What should I wear to my ultrasound appointment?

We recommend that you wear two-piece outfits for ease and comfort. Easy access to the baby makes for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. A dress is not recommended.

Do I need an appointment and how far in advance should my ultrasound appointments be made?

Ultrasound Appointments should be made as soon as possible! The most highly desired appointment times do fill up quickly. Hours may vary according to demand so please call us to make an appointment or go to the bookings page and fill out the form to have one of our friendly staff contact you. Accommodating our clients is our first priority and because of this, Precious Previews offers flexible trading hours. Same day appointments and appointments outside our rergular hours may be available but will incur an extra charge.

Can I bring friends and family to my ultrasound appointment?

Absolutely! We are completely a mother focused and family friendly environment. Our studio location can accommodate up to ten adults comfortably, so you can share and enjoy the experience in our home theatre-viewing environment with your whole family. Our ultrasound imaging rooms have large plasma screens for easy visualisation and we also provide toys and play-space for the siblings. At Precious Previews we understand that this is a special moment for mum and dad as well as your guests. Our friendly staff have a special talent for creating a warm, fun and exciting environment.

What will I see when I'm being scanned?

Depending on the position the baby at the time of your scan you may see your baby sucking its thumb, moving around, changing position, wriggling its fingers and toes and occasionally kicking and stretching. During a 4D scan, facial expressions such as tongue pokeing, yawning and smiling can often be seen.

Do I need a full bladder?

While you should remain well hydrated, you do not need a full-bladder for our ultrasound services.

Do I need a doctor's referral?

No, you do not require a doctor's referral for our services, as our services are non-diagnostic.

Is the 4D ultrasound covered by my health Insurance?

No. Since this is an elective non-diagnostic service, and is not a replacement for your doctor ordered ultrasound, you will need to pay the cost of this ultrasound as an out of pocket expense. We accept cash, Visa, MasterCard, and debit cards. (Precious Previews does not offer any form of medical advice throughout the session. Any concerns you may have regarding your pregnancy you must seek advice from your medical provider.)

Will you provide measurements of the baby or establish a due date?

NO. We are an optional service and do not replace any element of your prenatal care. You must be under the care of a doctor to use our service, and we urge you to consult your health care provider if you have any concerns about your pregnancy.

When do I get the contents of my package?

Everything is done onsite using the highest quality products so we are able to produce your pictures at the time of your session so that you will receive your DVD, photos, CD disks and everything else in your package before you leave our facility.