Types of Ultrasound by Trimester

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In the 1st Trimester, many moms prefer 2D ultrasounds to 3D ultrasounds.

Here are the reasons why moms prefer 2D in the FIRST Trimester.

• To see the whole baby in one picture
• Watch baby move and wiggle live on screen
• Early Gender determination
• Heartbeat check - for Peace of Mind
• Reassurance Ultrasounds for extra confidence between routine appointments

The 2nd Trimester is the 'gray zone' for 3D/4D Ultrasounds ~ baby’s facial features are still developing, and fat hasn’t filled out their face and body just yet. This means baby may look a little more slender or bony than in later weeks.

That said, 24–26 weeks can still offer incredible images—especially if you’re eager for an early look!

• You’re too excited to wait and would like a Sneak Peek of your little one in 3D
• You already plan to return in the third trimester but want an extra peek of baby in 3D now
• You have a history of preterm labor and want to ensure you get beautiful images before you potentially go into labor
• You’re finding out baby’s gender and want to add a 3D/4D glimpse to that experience
   

No matter the gestational age 3D/4D is fun to add to any 2nd Trimester Ultrasound.

The ideal time for stunning 3D/4D/5D/HD Live ultrasound images is between 28 and 36 weeks. This is when your baby’s facial features are most defined, and fluid levels are still optimal for imaging.

We’ll guide you on how to prepare for the best results—including hydration tips and what to bring to your session.

🗓️ 28 Weeks

• Baby is still a bit skinny
• Often able to capture the face and upper body in one 3D frame
• Facial features beginning to take shape
   

🗓️ 30 Weeks

• Baby is filling out
• See the face and arms together in detail
• Cheeks start getting fuller
   

🗓️ 32 Weeks

• Images become more focused on one area at a time (e.g., face, hands, or feet)
• Amniotic fluid is usually optimal between 28-32 weeks
   

🗓️ 34 Weeks

• Faces look even more developed and full
• See more facial expressions—a favorite gestational age for parents
   

🗓️ 36+ Weeks

• Baby may drop lower into the pelvis, which can affect visibility
• When visible, images are phenomenal in detail
• Important: Drink plenty of water daily for at least a week before your appointment to improve image clarity

Many babies are active and responsive in the 3rd Trimester, making it a great time to catch funny faces, yawns, stretches, or smiles on camera. A 3D/4D/5D ultrasound is great for any 3rd trimester baby!
 

Yes—we’ve captured incredible 3D/4D/5D images even past the due date (40–41 weeks). With the right preparation and baby in a cooperative position, these final moments can be unforgettable, it's like looking through a window to see your baby in the womb.

📅 “Ready to book your 3D/4D/5D session? Click here to schedule.”

If any of the following apply to you, consider scheduling your scan between 28–36 weeks for the best possible images:

• Baby is breech (butt down)
• Amniotic fluid levels are low
• You only plan to have one 3D/4D/5D ultrasound during your pregnancy
• You want to clearly see who baby looks like—Mom or Dad
   

👉 Good news: our packages are affordable enough that many families choose to return for a second scan!

• The closer to delivery, the chubbier baby will appear—but baby won’t fully fit on the screen anymore.
• Earlier in the third trimester (28–32 weeks) offers the best balance of clear imaging and baby’s full face in-frame.
• Weight gain doesn’t begin significantly until the end of the second trimester, so waiting until at least 28 weeks helps you see cute cheeks and fuller features.
   

• Breech babies are harder to image in 3D/4D, especially if they’re tucked low or facing mom's spine.
  *While our team is trained in special techniques to work around these challenges, breech babies typically have less ability/desire to move thier arms/legs away from thier faces and are typically less cooperative due to thier position.