A 2D (with the “D” standing for “dimensional”) image is a flat image for example a photograph. A 3D image will appear to have depth.

A 4D scan will not only have depth to the image but will also show the image (i.e. your baby) moving. You can then have photographs, CD-ROMs and DVDs of your baby.

You will see your baby doing exactly what it is really doing. He or she may be seen to suck their thumb, rub their eyes or yawn.

4D scans are not generally offered for free but there are many private scanning clinics which specialise in these scans. Before choosing a clinic check that they have qualified sonographers to do the scans and, if possible, midwives on staff. Most clinics will charge around £200 for a scan (lasting around half an hour), a DVD/ CR-ROM of both moving and still images and printed photographs. There will also be cheaper and more expensive packages available.

The best results of a scan will be gained between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation when baby is still quite small and surrounded by a lot of fluid making the images quite clear and leaving baby with room to move. For twin and multiple pregnancies the best time for a scan is at 27 weeks of gestation as after this point the babies will have greatly reduced space to move.

Scans are done in the same manner as a normal ultrasound however the sonographer will take a bit longer to scan baby as it takes longer to build up the image than with a 2D scan.

For images of a 4D scan of a baby at 24 weeks and the same baby at 1 week old visit our 4D scan page