As the birth of your little one approaches, Moms certainly want to know everything about their development in the womb. One way to monitor the health and growth of the fetus is by undergoing an ultrasound examination.
In this modern era, ultrasound technology has advanced rapidly, introducing 4D ultrasound that offers more realistic and detailed images of the fetus. Unlike 2D ultrasound, which only displays black and white images, 4D ultrasound can produce 3D images of the fetus with more lifelike movement.
For moms who are pregnant, you might be wondering, what are the benefits of 4D ultrasound? Here are 5 benefits of 4D ultrasound that moms must know.
What is 4D Ultrasound?
4D USG is an advanced ultrasound technology that combines 3D images with real-time motion. The results of a 4D USG will display the Little One's image in more detail, from facial features, hand and foot movements, to facial expressions.
The 4D ultrasound examination uses high-frequency sound waves that are transmitted into the mother's womb. These sound waves are then captured by a probe and processed into images that can be viewed on a monitor screen.
When is the Right Time for a 4D Ultrasound?
The ideal time to have a 4D ultrasound is between the 27th and 32nd weeks of pregnancy. At this stage of pregnancy, the baby is sufficiently developed, resulting in clearer and more detailed images.
However, Moms need to consult with an obstetrician first to determine the right time for a 4D ultrasound. The doctor will consider the gestational age, the health condition of Moms and the Little One, as well as the purpose of the examination.
Benefits of 4D Ultrasound for Pregnant Mothers
Dikutip dari mitrakeluarga.com, berikut adalah 10 manfaat USG 4D untuk Moms dan si Kecil:
1. Confirming pregnancy and estimating the due date.
4D ultrasound can be used to confirm pregnancy and estimate the due date of the baby. This is done by observing the size and development of the baby.
The doctor will measure various parts of the baby's body, such as head length, biparietal diameter, and abdominal circumference. From these measurements, the doctor can estimate the gestational age and the baby's due date more accurately.
2. Ensuring the number of fetuses in the womb.
4D ultrasound can be used to determine the number of fetuses in the womb. This is important to know whether you are pregnant with twins or a single baby.
With 4D ultrasound, doctors can clearly see how many gestational sacs are in the mother's womb. This cannot be done with 2D ultrasound, which sometimes provides less clear images.
3. Ensuring that an ectopic pregnancy does not occur.
An ectopic pregnancy is a condition where the fetus develops outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy can be dangerous for the health of both the mother and the baby.
4D ultrasound can be used to detect ectopic pregnancy by observing the location of the fetus. If the fetus is not inside the uterus, the doctor can diagnose an ectopic pregnancy and promptly take appropriate action.
4. Determining the baby's gender.
At a certain stage of pregnancy, a 4D ultrasound can be used to determine the baby's gender. This is usually done at 18 weeks of pregnancy or later, when the baby's genital organs have clearly formed.
However, it should be noted that the accuracy of 4D ultrasound in determining the baby's gender is not 100%. There are several factors that can affect accuracy, such as the fetus's position, the quality of the ultrasound image, and the doctor's experience.
5. Detecting problems in the uterus, ovaries, cervix, or placenta.
4D ultrasound can be used to detect problems in the uterus, ovaries, cervix, or placenta. This is important for accurately diagnosing and treating Moms' health issues.
Doctors can clearly see the structure of Moms' reproductive organs using 4D ultrasound. This allows doctors to detect abnormalities such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, cervical cancer, and placenta previa.
6. Detecting birth defects.
4D ultrasound can be used to detect several types of birth defects, such as heart defects, spina bifida, and cleft lip. This is important to help Moms and Dads prepare to welcome the little one.
Although 4D ultrasounds cannot detect all types of birth defects, they can help doctors diagnose abnormalities earlier. This allows doctors to provide appropriate advice and care for Moms and the Little One.
7. Detect and monitor the fetal heartbeat.
4D ultrasound can be used to detect and monitor the fetal heartbeat. This is important to ensure the baby's health.
Doctors can clearly see the Little One's heartbeat on the 4D ultrasound screen. This allows doctors to detect if there are any abnormalities in the Little One's heartbeat, such as bradycardia (slow heartbeat) or tachycardia (fast heartbeat).
8. Monitoring the age and development of the fetus.
4D ultrasound can be used to detect and monitor the fetal heartbeat. This is important to ensure the baby's health.
Doctors can measure various parts of the baby's body using 4D ultrasound and compare them with the normal fetal growth chart. This allows doctors to detect if there is any growth delay in the baby.
9. Monitoring the position of the fetus in the womb.
4D ultrasound can be used to determine the number of fetuses in the womb. This is important to know whether you are pregnant with twins or a single baby.
The position of the fetus as childbirth approaches is crucial in determining the type of delivery that will be performed. If the baby is in a head-down position, a normal delivery can be carried out. However, if the baby is in a breech position, the doctor may need to perform a cesarean section.
10. Monitoring the amount of amniotic fluid.
4D ultrasound can be used to monitor the amount of amniotic fluid. This is important to ensure that the baby has enough fluid to grow and develop properly.
Amniotic fluid functions to protect the baby from impact, regulate the baby's body temperature, and assist the baby in breathing and swallowing. If the amount of amniotic fluid is too little (oligohydramnios) or too much (polyhydramnios), complications in pregnancy may occur.
4D ultrasound is a technology that benefits both Moms and their little ones. Moms can experience various benefits of 4D ultrasound, from detecting fetal abnormalities to enhancing bonding with their little ones.
However, Moms need to consult with an obstetrician first to determine the right time for a 4D ultrasound.
