Frequently Asked Questions
What is an elective prenatal ultrasound?
We offer elective 3D & 4D prenatal ultrasounds to provide a positive bonding experience for the mother, father and family members with the unborn baby. We feel that realistic surface images provide a connection between the parents and baby that can be beneficial to the whole family. We make no claims that 3-D as used in this examination is performed to better assess the baby for abnormalities. A routine ultrasound examination should have already been performed to assess the gestational age of the fetus and to evaluate for fetal anomalies as well as the basic components of fetal anatomy recommended for screening.
Does this take the place of an ultrasound at my doctor’s office?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound with Cloud Nine Imaging must already be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care and have already undergone a medical, diagnostic ultrasound ordered by their provider to confirm their due date, screen for fetal anomalies, and to look for any other pregnancy related issues. The issues that we are evaluating in the elective prenatal ultrasound session include a limited diagnostic scan to confirm heartbeat, the number of babies in the pregnancy, the position of the baby, and the placental location. Please note, at no time is this exam to be used in place of a complete diagnostic ultrasound.
Is it safe? Are there any risks to me, or my baby?
Extensive studies over 30 years have found that ultrasound has not been shown to cause any harm to mother or baby. Routine scanning of all pregnancies is now normal throughout the United States. In 3D/4D scanning exactly the same type and intensity of ultrasound is used as with conventional 2D scanning. 3D and 4D Ultrasound both utilize sound waves to look inside the body. The technology is similar to radar. A probe placed on the body emits sound waves into the body, listens for the return echo and generates an image. 4D ultrasound will be similar to a conventional scan in terms of exposure.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, appointments are necessary for all of our services. Please call our office is you would like a same day appointment. We will do our best to accommodate if our schedule allows.
How long does the 4D ultrasound take?
Depending on the package you choose, the 4D ultrasound session will last between 10 to 25 minutes depending on the package you have chosen.
How far along should I be before I have a 4D ultrasound?
If you plan on having only one 4D ultrasound examination, we would recommend having the examination performed between the 28th and 32nd week of the pregnancy. However, excellent images of your baby can be obtained anytime after about 22 weeks of pregnancy. Many mothers obtain more than one 4D ultrasound and have images to enjoy from their second and third trimesters.
Will I always get a beautiful picture of my baby?
Usually, but not always. Sometimes if the baby is persistently looking face down, i.e. towards your spine it may be difficult to see the baby’s face. If this happens, a repeat scan will usually succeed because the baby has turned to a favorable position. We make no promises that the images will be similar to those you might have seen elsewhere or even from our clinic, or that we can always meet everyone’s expectations. Every baby scans differently, depending on its gestational age, position, amount of fluid, and mother’s condition. We promise to make every effort to obtain the best possible images of whatever parts of the baby that can be seen.
Can I bring my family and friends?
Yes. In fact, we encourage our clients to invite family and friends to attend the elective 4D ultrasound session. This is a joyous and wonderful experience, one that can be shared with your family and loved ones. We can accommodate large family groups.
Are you able to tell the sex of the baby?
Yes, in most cases we can provide an indication of the sex of the baby. We can’t however guarantee that the baby will cooperate during your session. Certain factors such as body tissue content, developmental stage and fetal position all affect the ability to determine sex.
Is the 4D ultrasound covered by Insurance?
At this point, insurance does not cover the costs of our ultrasounds. Since this is an elective procedure and is not intended to be 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. We are unable accept HSA or FSA cards.
What kind of ultrasound equipment do you use to perform the 4D ultrasounds?
We use the state of the art GE E8 to complete all ultrasound examinations. The GE E8 has been seen in GE television commercials and many printed articles from around the world. This machine is the best 2D, 3D and 4D ultrasound machine available. Please note, many organizations claim to use “state-of-the-art” equipment, when in fact they use older or inferior technology.
How much does it cost?
We have packages to fit just about anyone’s budget. Click here for package options.
What is Sneak Peek Clinical?
Sneak Peek Clinical is an early gender DNA detection test offered to women starting at 6 weeks into pregnancy. The genetic test gives you the first step to connect with your baby before you are able to see the exciting clear images from ultrasound scans. Our clinical service offers a comfortable room in which blood is drawn from the upper arm using the patented Sneak Peek SNAP device. Only a few drops of blood are needed for the sample. The sample is then shipped overnight to the Sneak Peek Lab for processing. Using a clinical setting offers the fastest turnaround in the industry with 24-hour results once the lab receives the sample. Much faster than the at-home kits.
How does SneakPeek® work?
SneakPeek utilizes the natural process of shared fetal DNA circulating inside the mother’s
bloodstream. Our PCR technology has the ability to detect the presence or absence of
male Y chromosome in the blood sample provided starting at 9 weeks into pregnancy. If
it is detected then the baby’s gender is male and if it is not detected then the baby’s
gender is female.
What is your cancellation policy?
We respectfully request 24 hours notice if you decide to cancel your appointment. This can be completed online, emailing info@cloudnine4d.com, or calling 423-499-6463 and leaving a voicemail. If you fail to show for your appointment or cancel your appointment, then a $25 fee will be assessed to be seen in our office. All future appointments will need to be scheduled by phone and the $25 fee must be paid. Online booking will be banned from future use.
What is your refund policy?
We guarantee we will give you the best possible images we can obtain, and our main goal is viewing fetal movement in the womb. Baby is the star of the show, and we are the audience. Many factors determine the outcome, i.e fetal position, fluid level, gestational age, body composition and those determine the clarity and number of images we can obtain.
Payment for the session covers session time, use of the equipment, and other charges related for this service. We want everyone to have a memorable, special bonding experience with the baby and will do our best to get the outcome you desire. We have a $59 minimum charge for all scans regardless of images or gender determination. Any rescan and cost associated with the rescan will be at the ultrasound technician’s discretion.
What is our privacy policy?
We value our clients’ privacy and do not share information.
Booking an appointment?
The fastest and most convenient way to book an appointment is to book directly here on our website. The website has the most up-to-date information on available appointment times and dates. If you prefer to speak with our receptionist, then please call 423-499-6463, leave a voicemail when prompted, and someone will return your call in most instance within 24 hours or the next day.
